Despite growing support for legalization at the state level, marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means that they don’t recognize it as a legitimate medical treatment by the federal government. However, some states have passed a federal medical marijuana law that legalizes medical cannabis, and more are considering doing so. This debate will likely continue until a medical marijuana federal law changes.
While federal law prohibits the use of marijuana, some states have legalized it for medical purposes. Currently, 34 states, including Washington D.C., have legalized medical cannabis. Of these states, 11 have also legalized recreational cannabis use.
The passage of state-level medical cannabis laws has led to a decrease in arrests for possession of small amounts of marijuana. For example, a recent American Civil Liberties Union report showed a 41% decrease in marijuana possession arrests in states that had passed medical cannabis laws.
Some federal agencies have started to recognize the potential medical benefits of cannabis. For example, in 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a CBD-based medication for treating certain types of epilepsy. And in 2018, the FDA approved a THC-based medication for treating nausea and vomiting in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Growing Support For Medical Cannabis In America
The majority of Americans now support legalizing medical cannabis. A 2018 poll from Quinnipiac University found that 93 % of American voters think they should legalize medical cannabis. This level of support is up from 88% in 2016 and 84% in 2014.
There is growing support for medical cannabis in America. However, federal law must still catch up with the public’s changing attitudes. Until then, patients will need to continue to fight for their right to access this potentially life-changing medication.
What Are The Benefits Of Medical Marijuana?
Marijuana and medical cannabinoids have been a treatment option for a variety of medical conditions for ages. Some of the conditions that medical marijuana is effective in treating include:
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- HIV/AIDS
- Crohn’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
Medical marijuana is often used to manage the side effects of conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy. It can also be used as an alternative treatment for people who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to other medications.
For example, medical marijuana effectively reduces seizures in people with epilepsy. It can also help improve appetite and reduce nausea in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
What Are The Risks Of Medical Marijuana?
Like any medication, there are some risks associated with medical marijuana. These risks are typically related to the method of administration, as smoking can damage the lungs. Some people may also experience paranoia and anxiety, mainly if they use a high-potency strain.
Read more about smoking marijuana while pregnant here: https://csceducation.com/blog/smoking-marijuana-while-pregnant.
The Bottom Line
You must talk to your doctor about whether medical marijuana suits you and follow their dosage and strain recommendations. They will be able to monitor your condition and help you manage any side effects you may experience.
If you love learning about medicinal marijuana in the U.S., make sure to check out the Medical Applications course at CSC.