Medical marijuana is a term for cannabis sativa plant derivatives, which are used to alleviate acute and chronic conditions. The plant includes a variety of active compounds, but only two are important from a medical point of view: THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the main ingredient of marijuana, which makes people "high". It’s attractive partly because it's safer than opioid medications: overdosing is impossible, and it doesn't cause addiction. ## What Are the Reasons to Use It? The research has shown that cannabinoids can decrease anxiety, alleviate inflammations, pain, nausea, and vomiting with people after chemotherapy, decrease the growth of tumors, relax muscles, stimulate appetite, and help with weight gain for people who have cancer or AIDS. Most often, medical marijuana is used to relieve chronic pain. It should be noted that it only has a minimal effect in dealing with acute pain (after surgery or after breaking bones). Marijuana helps with multiple sclerosis and is widely used for the treatment of glaucoma. It is also considered a muscle relaxer as it is able to ===decrease tremors in Parkinson's disease. One of the promising topics for research is the ability to use marijuana to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ## The general list of application includes: - Alzheimer's disease - Oncology disorders - Crohn's disease - Diseases affecting the immune system including HIV/AIDS or multiple - Sclerosis (MS) - Eating disorders - Epilepsy - Glaucoma - Mental disorders: schizophrenia and PTSD - Pains of various origin Similar to other medicines, statements about efficacy should be viewed critically and with caution. In any situation, you should never try to medicate yourself. ## What Are the Downsides? Marijuana-based medicines can impact judgment and coordination, which can lead to accidents and injuries. When used by teenagers — whose brains are still developing — marijuana can have a negative impact on IQ and mental functions of the brain. Other possible side effects include low blood pressure, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, bloodshot eyes, and hallucinations. It is still unclear how inhaled marijuana impacts the condition of the lungs, but there is evidence that it can increase the risk of bronchitis and other lung problems. The other problem is that the FDA doesn't control medical marijuana in the same way as prescription drugs. The ingredients of medical marijuana can vary depending on where you buy it. ## How to Use Medical Marijuana - Inhaling: vaping and smoking - Orally: oils, tinctures, capsules, and foodstuffs. - Topically: balms, ointments, and patches. - Suppositories: rectal or vaginal. The frequency of use, dosage, and form of intake should be suggested by your physician. ## How to Obtain Medical Marijuana You will need a written recommendation from a licensed physician in the state where it's allowed. Each state has its own list of disorders where the use of cannabinoids is allowed. Also, you might be required to have a medical ID card to buy marijuana in specialized stores. *Please note that the use of medical cannabis or other related substances could be illegal under the applicable law. All content is for informational purposes only. The medical information is not advice and should not be treated as such. In any case please contact your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.*