Medical marijuana facts

Medical marijuana is a plant-based medicine from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica species with three major active compounds: THC, CBD, and CBN.
Medical marijuana is used for
- pain,
- nausea,
- muscle spasms,
- anxiety,
- multiple sclerosis,
- low appetite,
- sleep problems,
- autism,
- epilepsy (seizure disorders), and
- other conditions.
The health benefits of medical marijuana include relief from pain and muscle spasm, nausea associated with chemotherapy, and anorexia.
Benefits are seen in immune function, neuroplasticity, emotional and mood regulation, vascular health and digestive function. Research is limited but studies of the endocannabinoid system suggest benefits may include neuroprotection (in MS, epilepsy, other movement disorders), and benefit in a number of mood and anxiety disorders.
The side effects of medical marijuana are minimal when used at low doses and include dry mouth and fatigue. At higher doses, side effects include dizziness, paranoia, and psychoactive effects.

What are THC and CBD?

THC or tetrahydrocannabinolis the psychoactive compound in marijuana. It is responsible for the "high" people feel. There are two man-made drugs called dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet) that are synthetic forms of THC. They are FDA-approved to prevent nausea and vomiting in people receiving chemotherapy.

CBD or cannabidiol is another compound in marijuana that is not psychoactive. CBD is thought to be responsible for the majority of the medical benefits.

Epidiolex is a CBD oil extract that is undergoing clinical trials for epilepsy.

THC:CBD: Nabiximols (Sativex) is a specific plant extract with an equal ratio of THC:CBD. It is approved as a drug in the UK and elsewhere in Europe for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, spasticity, neuropathic pain, overactive bladder and other indications.

Medical marijuana products are available with a huge range of THC and CBD concentrations. Expert opinion states that 10mg of THC should be considered "one serving" and a person new to medical marijuana should inhale or consume no more until they know their individual response.

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