Dr. Art Mollen: The pros and cons of medical maijuana

Dr. Art Mollen,

Marijuana is not a controlled substance from the standpoint of the FDA

Story Highlights

• Medical marijuana is similar to recreational marijuana and contains THC
• It is primarily used to treat pain, nausea and vomiting related to cancer and chemotherapy
• Side effects include bloodshot eyes, rapid heart rate, lower blood pressure, weight gain

When my editor first asked me to write a column about medical marijuana, I hesitated not for a few minutes, but for a few days.

My response was slow since I simply did not want to get in the middle of such a contentious issue. Finally I told him that since so many people are using pot these days, I would simply relate the facts without expressing an opinion. In fact, about half of the states have legalized medical marijuana in some form or another.

It is not a controlled substance from the standpoint of the FDA, since it does not oversee and cannot guarantee you’re getting the correct dosage and strength.In recent years the potency of marijuana has supposedly increased.

Also the FDA has not approved it as a medical treatment, because there has not been sufficient research to prove its safety and effectiveness.

Usage, side effects

Medical marijuana is similar to recreational marijuana and contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

From a medical standpoint it is used to treat pain, nausea and vomiting related to cancer and chemotherapy. It is used to treat eating disorders such as anorexia.  Also it may help mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety.

However, most of the evidence suggests that it is most beneficial in reducing chronic pain, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy.

There are side effects including bloodshot eyes, rapid heart rate, lower blood pressure, weight gain and even hallucinations.

Studies suggest that it can affect your cognitive function, ability to work, judgment and coordination. There is also the potential to develop dependency.

It can also potentially harm your lungs and cause carcinogenic effects similar to smoking cigarettes.

Acquiring it

So how can you get medical marijuana?

First, visit your primary care doctor who can evaluate your medical condition and discuss your options. Next, you must visit a specific doctor, who is licensed to write a recommendation for you to receive a medical marijuana ID card.

Once this card has been issued, you can purchase it at a marijuana dispensary. Various kinds are available to be smoked, vaporized or eaten.

Although, marijuana may help certain conditions, there may be conventional medications that are just as beneficial or even better.

However, if your condition has not responded or improved from medications and more conventional treatments, then medical marijuana may be worth trying.

At the end of the day, the decision to use medical marijuana must be an informed decision. So you need to research the medical literature about the pros and cons.  We simply need more studies long term to determine the benefits versus the harm.