Medical marijuana is offered for its therapeutic benefits for treating chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, seizures, and Alzheimer’s disease. While it is “medical” cannabis, it still holds the risk for misuse, dependence, and addiction. Approximately 3 in 10 people who use marijuana (cannabis) have cannabis use disorder (CUD).
Understanding Medical Marijuana: Side Effects and Uses
Medical marijuana comes from both the Cannabis sativa plant and the hemp plant. The two primary compounds in medical cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), both of which produce different effects.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive component of marijuana, which produces euphoria, altered senses, disorientation, and even hallucinations. Cannabidiol (CBD) offers the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, such as relaxation and sleepiness, without the “high.”
Other potential side effects of medical marijuana include:
- Dry mouth
- Altered sense of time and space
- Impaired thinking and memory
- Confusion and dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Panic attacks
- Slower reaction times
- Poor muscle coordination
The side effects of medical weed are relatively similar to those of recreational marijuana, but the medical forms are highly purified and lab-made.
Medical marijuana is often prescribed for:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Chronic pain management
- Crohn’s disease
- Epilepsy and seizures
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Multiple sclerosis
- Anxiety
Medical Cannabis vs. Recreational Weed
While medical cannabis typically comes in the same forms as recreational, medical marijuana is often deemed “safer.” Since medical marijuana is used under professional supervision and in controlled doses, it mitigates the risk of misuse.
Recreational cannabis lacks this oversight, which increases the potential for overconsumption and addiction. People often underestimate its effects and potency and overconsume, leading to potentially adverse side effects and health risks.
The Long-Term Health Risks of Cannabis
While medical or state-regulated marijuana may be legal and beneficial for many, it can still have long-term health implications. Like any prescription medication, there are side effects and health risks associated with marijuana use.
Understanding the potential side effects and risks of medical cannabis is critical for ensuring safe consumption. Adolescents, young adults, people with cardiovascular issues, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with a history of mental health disorders are at an increased risk for adverse health implications and side effects.
Mental Health Complications
Regular use of marijuana, especially batches with high THC potency, can contribute to mental health issues. Chronic use of medical cannabis can lead to the development of depression and anxiety disorders and exacerbate psychotic disorders. Studies show that marijuana can contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors while also being the most common recreational substance detected in suicide victims.
Cardiovascular Effects
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications. Individuals with medical marijuana prescriptions may be at risk of experiencing heart palpitations, arrhythmias, and a heightened risk of heart attacks.
Increased Cancer Risk
Depending on the method of cannabis use, research has shown an increased risk of developing multiple cancers with marijuana consumption. Individuals who smoke marijuana are more susceptible to developing head, neck, and throat cancers.
Dependency and Addiction
Though often perceived as a non-addictive substance, both medical and recreational marijuana can lead to cannabis use disorder (CUD). Symptoms of marijuana addiction include persistent cravings, compulsive use, increased tolerance, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping.
The Addiction Paradox: Can Medical Cannabis Be Both a Solution and a Problem?
As cannabis legalization spreads across the globe, a growing concern that demands attention is the risk of addiction and cannabis use disorder (CUD). While many consider marijuana a “safe” substance, regular and long-term use can lead to misuse, dependency, and addiction. Medical marijuana, like many prescription drugs, can be both a solution and a problem for users.
Medical Marijuana as a Harm-Reduction Tool
For individuals who struggle with chronic pain or an opioid addiction, medical marijuana can be used as a harm-reduction tool. Studies show that the increasing legalization of medical marijuana may lower opioid prescription rates and opioid overdose mortality rates. While medical cannabis can serve as a less addictive solution for pain management compared to opioids, there still is the risk of misuse and addiction.
The Risk for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
While not everyone who uses medical weed will become addicted, statistics reveal that cannabis use disorder (CUD) is more common than many realize. Compared to the general population, CUD is much higher in individuals with mental health disorders, including PTSD, anxiety, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and mood disorders.
While many benefit from using medical cannabis, the following groups may be more susceptible to addiction:
- Adolescents
- Individuals with a history of substance abuse
- People with mental health conditions
The adolescent brain is not fully developed until the mid-20s, making young marijuana users more vulnerable to CUD. Adolescents, teens, and young adults who begin using recreational marijuana at a young age may experience cognitive impairments, such as issues with memory, attention, and learning.
Individuals with a previous history of drug or alcohol abuse may use medical marijuana as a substitute. Medical cannabis could act as a trigger or a gateway drug for individuals who struggle with substance abuse and addictive tendencies. While medical marijuana is often prescribed for certain mental illnesses, a high THC content can exacerbate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Marijuana Detox Programs in Stuart, FL
While medical marijuana has been shown to help combat addiction, it has also led to cannabis use disorder (CUD) in almost 30% of users. Understanding the potential risks and benefits of medical marijuana is critical before consuming it. Like any prescription, it is not a one-size-fits-all medication, and individual health problems can alter how cannabis affects each individual.
If you are struggling with marijuana abuse or recognizing signs of cannabis use disorder (CUD), don’t hesitate to reach out today. Coastal Detox offers individualized marijuana detox programs in Stuart, FL, for those dealing with recreational and medical marijuana addiction.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2024. Cannabis (Marijuana).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024. Cannabis Facts and Stats.
- GoodRx, 2024. What’s the Difference Between Medical Marijuana and Recreational Weed?
- WebMD, 2024. Medical Marijuana: Benefits and Side Effects.
- Mayo Clinic, 2024. Medical marijuana.
- European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 2019. Cannabis and mental illness: a review.
- Journal of Psychopharmacology, 2021. Cannabis based medicines and cannabis dependence: A critical review of issues and evidence.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2017. Marijuana: Is marijuana addictive?
- Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 2023. Suicidality risk after using cannabis and cannabinoids: An umbrella review.
- JAMA Internal Medicine, 2014. Medical Cannabis Laws and Opioid Analgesic Overdose Mortality in the United States, 1999-2010.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024. Understanding Your Risk for Cannabis Use Disorder.