Medical Marijuana: Is the Hype More Than the Hope?

Medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, is a form of cannabis that is used for medical purposes. The use of medical marijuana has been a topic of debate for decades. Throwing light on the hype it has been promoted as a post-workout booster. And the market has developed from CBD-infused jelly beans to CBD-infused bras even though very little is known on the subject.

Medical Marijuana: The Hype

The hype surrounding the controversial subject of medical marijuana has hugely fueled by anecdotal reports. The changing attitude of Americans towards cannabis use, the ever-changing legal landscape of the United States, and media coverage.

Some proponents argue that it has the potential to provide relief from chronic pain and epilepsy. And could offer a safer alternative to traditional medicines. The dynamic legal landscape of the United States has been a major factor contributing to the hype. As of Feb 2023, 39 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana. This means that if anyone wants to access MMJ products in the legalized states. They require a written recommendation from a licensed health professional.

To put things into perspective, Ohio has a legal medical marijuana program. If you live in the state, you need a Ohio medical marijuana card to legally purchase and possess marijuana.

Another factor contributing to the hype would be the growing number of research bodies (public and private) on its potential therapeutic effects. Moreover, Some researchers argue that some of the reported benefits of medical cannabis might be a bit exaggerated. And could be based on personal anecdotes rather than strong scientific evidence

Medical Marijuana: The Hope

Regardless of the medical legalization of Cannabis Sativa commonly referred to as Marijuana, it had a long history as a medicinal plant dating back more than millennia or two.

The renewed interest in the subject began 20 years ago when it was suggested to make cannabis available as a medicine to patients suffering from various medical conditions.

Instead of debating on its potential or claimed benefits, let’s dive deep into the latest scientific discoveries on the subject.

Pain Management:

A study published in 2017 in the Journal of Pain discovered that medical marijuana can used to relieve symptoms relating to chronic pain, specifically for patients that have not found results from alternative treatments.

The study was based on the medical marijuana experience of 1500 patients. And it was found that marijuana is somehow associated with managing symptoms of pain.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

In 2018, a study published in the Journal of psychopharmacology found that medical marijuana can be effective in treating symptoms relating to post-traumatic stress disorder. Some patients revealed that it helped in major cases of anxiety. The study included more than 400 patients and found that medical marijuana is related to reductions in PTSD symptoms.

Cancer Treatment:

A study published in the cancer medicine journal, in 2018 concluded that medical marijuana is shown to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The study is complete on cancer patients who claim that it has significantly help.

Epilepsy:

A marijuana-based medication called Epidiolex was given FDA approval in 2018 to treat seizures link to the rare epilepsy conditions Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. The first drug with a purified drug ingredient derive from marijuana is Epidiolex, and it has received FDA approval.

Multiple sclerosis:

According to a 2018 study published in the journal Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, medical marijuana can assist people with multiple sclerosis to manage symptoms like spasticity, pain, and bladder dysfunction. The study, which involve over 2,000 patients, discover that using medical marijuana is link to notable improvements in these symptoms.

Medical Marijuana Research Gap Affecting Patients:

Scientific evidence is vital in helping us understand the complex structure of the human body and make informed decisions about it. It should noted that without scientific evidence, we risk making decisions based on personal opinions, rather than facts.

In the case of medical cannabis, patients are leave to navigate medical cannabis without sufficient guidance. And are force to rely on anecdotal research without any scientific evidence. Moreover, uncertainty and confusion surrounding the claimed benefits of medical marijuana have denied potentially life-changing treatments to patients.

Final Thoughts:

With only limited research and great findings, medical marijuana does live up to the hype surrounding it. The above research has shown that it can be effective for people suffering from the above conditions. However, due to the research gap, cannabis is still a controversial topic, and there are concerns regarding potential addiction or abuse.

If you are suffering from the above medical condition, medical marijuana can help. Consult a physician and get evaluate for a medical marijuana card online. Lastly, we recommend to follow medical guidance and use it responsibly and in accordance with the law.