Medical Marijuana is a term describing the use of the marijuana plant as a treatment of several medical conditions. It’s basically derived from the plant, cannabis sativa, the same plant that people use as a recreational drug, but it is now taken for medical purposes.
In America, more than half of the states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for medical use. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classified marijuana as a Schedule I drug, which is considerably the same as heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. For that given reason, the usage of marijuana maybe abused and may lack medical value.
At the moment the agency agreed to support additional research in to the drug for them to be able to advice patients and medical marijuana doctors on the safe and effective use of cannabis.
The most common medical conditions that can qualify to be treated with a medical marijuana treatment include the following:
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Eating Disorders
Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder are conditions defined by an unhealthy relationship with food – they are characterized with self-starvation and excessive weight loss.
These kinds of disorders are a serious medical problem that may have long-term health consequences if left untreated. Research shows that marijuana can help as an appetite stimulant for patients who are suffering from eating disorders.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in particular activates the endocannabinoid system, which elevates the appetite in eating through increasing a patient’s sensitivity to smell and taste.
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Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the damage of the eye’s optic nerve, it is often linked to a buildup of pressure inside the eye. At any time, if the intraocular pressure (IOP) is increased it can damage the optic nerve, which is mainly responsible for transmitting images to your brain.
If it’s managed poorly, it can lead to permanent vision loss. It has been proven that marijuana and THC can lower IOP in 60% – 65% for the duration of 3 to 4 hours. Though, it may have positive effects, it is still advisable to consult your ophthalmologist about this treatment option.
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Epilepsy
Epilepsy refers to a group of related neurological disorder that affects 150, 000 Americans each year. It is characterized by episodes of mild to extreme seizures. Mild seizures may result to a point where concentration is impaired, while extreme seizure can reach to a point where total concentration and awareness is loss.
In particular, medical cannabis and CBD (Cannabidiol) rich products have proven to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizure attacks. In line with that, medical marijuana should only be used in treatment-resistant cases of seizures.
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Alzheimer’s Disease
This disease is generally referred to as a mental decline of people who are aging – it considerably interferes with a person’s daily life. The symptoms include problems with memory, communication, and thinking.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that a small dose of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is a chemical found in marijuana, can slow the production of beta-amyloid proteins in the brain. Beta-amyloid is a distinct characteristic of Alzheimer disease, which is found to be the common cause of neurodegenerative disease.
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Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a long-lasting disease that affects the brain, spinal cord, and the optic nerves of the eyes. It can typically cause pain, spasms, tingling, balance issues, vision problems, muscle control problems, and other negative impacts on different body functions.
A research that was published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal found that medical marijuana can substantially reduce the spasms and pain associated with the disease, while having few undesirable side effects on patients.
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Mental Disorders
Conditions like Schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may affect a person’s mood, thinking and behavior. A study made by Psychiatric Times found that CBD has been effective in treating symptoms of schizophrenia and PTSD under controlled clinical conditions.
To be able to get medical marijuana, you need a licensed doctor’s written recommendation in a state where medical marijuana is legal. Remember that, not all medical marijuana doctors are willing to recommend this type of treatment to their patients. You must have the medical condition that qualifies you for the use of medical marijuana as a treatment.
Every patient’s condition is unique – the condition must be thoroughly evaluated by a medical marijuana doctor in Gainesville in order for the doctor to prescribe you with the right dosage and amount of medical marijuana needed.
Advanced Medical Pain Center – Further Information
If you would like more information about medical marijuana treatment in Gainesville, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
