Education

There’s a lot of confusion and stigma around medical cannabis, but the research tells a more balanced story. According to a 2024 update from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, medical cannabis could help many people manage chronic pain, symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and even some mental health issues like anxiety. It’s not a miracle cure, but for those who haven’t found relief with other treatments, it can make a real difference in quality of life. The key is to use it safely. Start with a low dose, go slow, and stay informed about how it affects you. Researchers are continuing to study cannabis to better understand how it works and who it can help the most. This balanced perspective helps break down stigma and supports people seeking safe, evidence-based alternatives to traditional therapies.

Reference:

Allan GM, Ramji J, Perry D, et al. (2024). Medical Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids—2024 Update. Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Clearing-the-Smoke-on-Cannabis-Medical-Use-of-Cannabis-and-Cannabinoids-2024-Update-en.pdf

References:

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (n.d.). Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. Retrieved August 24, 2025, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know

Russo, E. B. (2019). The Entourage Effect in Cannabis Medicinal Products. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2019.00001

ElSohly, M. A., & Slade, D. (2005). The Cannabis Terpenes. Journal of Natural Products, 68(5), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1021/np050070k

• Start low, go slow: Begin with the smallest dose possible and increase gradually if needed.

• Know your product: Understand the THC content of what you’re using.

• Avoid mixing: Don’t mix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs 

• Be patient: Effects may take time, especially with edibles or tinctures.

• Keep track: Monitor how cannabis affects your symptoms and side effects.

• Talk to trusted sources: Consult qualified dispensaries 

• Store securely: Keep all products in a locked container, out of reach of children, pets, and others.

• Label clearly: Make sure all containers are labeled so they’re not confused with non-cannabis products.

• Separate edibles: Store edibles away from regular snacks and sweets to prevent accidental ingestion.

• Avoid secondhand exposure: Be mindful of smoke or vapor, especially around children, pregnant individuals, and non-users.

1. Smoking

• Onset Time: 1–5 minutes

• Duration: 1–3 hours

Pros:

• Fast relief, helpful for acute symptoms (pain, nausea)

• Easy to control dose in real time

Cons:

• Harsh on lungs; may irritate the respiratory system

• Produces strong odor

• Not ideal for long-term lung health or immunocompromised individuals

2. Vaporizing (Vaping)

• Onset Time: 1–5 minutes

• Duration: 1–3 hours

Pros:

• Fast-acting like smoking, but less harmful to lungs

• Discreet (less odor)

• Precise temperature control can enhance effects

Cons:

• Requires a vaporizer device (initial cost)

• Not as long-lasting as other methods

• Quality of vapor can vary by device and product

3. Topicals (Creams, Gels, Transdermal Patches)

• Onset Time: 15–60 minutes

• Duration: 4–8 hours (localized effect)

Pros:

• Targeted relief for localized pain, inflammation, or skin conditions

• Minimal systemic effects, so less risk of psychoactive effects

• Safe for individuals who want to avoid inhalation or ingestion

Cons:

• Effects are generally localized and may not help systemic symptoms

• Onset can be slower compared to inhalation

• May cause skin irritation or allergic reaction in sensitive individuals

4. Edibles (Gummies, Baked Goods, etc.)

• Onset Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours

• Duration: 4–8 hours (can last up to 12)

Pros:

• Long-lasting effects—ideal for chronic symptoms

• No lung involvement

• Variety of options and flavors

Cons:

• Delayed onset may lead to accidental overconsumption

• Difficult to dose accurately

• Effects vary based on metabolism and stomach contents

5.  Oils & Tinctures (Sublingual or Oral Drops)

• Onset Time:

  • Sublingual (under tongue): 15–45 minutes

  • Swallowed: 30–90 minutes

• Duration: 4–6 hours

Pros:

• Discreet and easy to use

• Better dose control than edibles

• Versatile: can be added to food or taken directly

Cons:

• Sublingual method requires proper technique for full effect

• Taste may be unpleasant for some users

• Still slower than inhaled methods

References:

Abrams, D. I. (2018). The therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids: An update from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine report. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 49, 7–11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.003

Lucas, C. J., Galettis, P., & Schneider, J. (2018). The pharmacokinetics and the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 84(11), 2477–2482. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcp.13710

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2017). The health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids: The current state of evidence and recommendations for research. The National Academies Press. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425767/

Stith, S. S., Vigil, J. M., Adams, I. M., Reeve, A., & Vandrey, R. (2019). A systematic review of the medical cannabis literature: Evidence for topical and transdermal use. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 1299. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2019.01299

Cannabis products are often marketed as:

• Indica: Promotes relaxation or sedation often known as “in-da-couch”

• Sativa: Associated with energy and focus

• Hybrid: A mix of both effects

🔬 Scientific Reality: These labels refer to botanical characteristics, not the actual effects on the body. The therapeutic impact of cannabis is determined more by:

• Cannabinoid profile (THC, CBD)

• Terpene composition (e.g., myrcene, limonene, linalool)

• Individual response and tolerance

References:

Huestis, M. A., Solimini, R., Pichini, S., Pacifici, R., Carlier, J., & Busardò, F. P. (2019). Cannabinoids, psychotropic drugs, and drug interactions. Current Neuropharmacology, 17(9), 926–965. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X17666190603144833

MacCallum, C. A., & Russo, E. B. (2018). Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 49, 12–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.004

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2017). The health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids: The current state of evidence and recommendations for research. The National Academies Press. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425767/

🚨 Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat

• Severe dizziness, fainting, or confusion

• Persistent vomiting

• Hallucinations or delusions

• Sudden or severe anxiety or panic attacks

• Symptoms that interfere with breathing or consciousness

• Worsening mental health symptoms (e.g., depression, mania, psychosis)

Call 911 if symptoms are life-threatening or involve loss of consciousness.

🚫 Use caution with:

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam)

• Opioids

• Antidepressants

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)

• Anti-seizure medications (e.g., clobazam)

• Immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus, cyclosporine)

👉 Always inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about cannabis use, especially when adding or adjusting medications.

Monitoring how cannabis affects your symptoms and any side effects is an important part of safe, effective treatment.

• Why it matters: Cannabis affects people differently based on the product used, dose, frequency, and individual body chemistry. Tracking helps identify what works best and what causes problems.

• What to track:

  • Time and date of use

  • Type of product (e.g., tincture, edible, vaporized flower)

  • Cannabinoid content (THC/CBD % or mg)

  • Dose/amount used

  • Symptoms before and after (e.g., pain level, mood, sleep)

  • Side effects (e.g., dry mouth, fatigue, anxiety)
    
    

Evidence:
Studies show that consistent tracking improves treatment outcomes and helps both patients and providers personalize care (Lucas et al., 2018; National Academies, 2017).

Adjustments should be based on patterns in symptom tracking. Signs that a treatment plan might need adjusting include:

• Inadequate relief of symptoms despite regular use

• Increasing side effects or new unwanted effects

• Changes in condition (e.g., worsening anxiety or pain)

• Increased tolerance (needing more for the same effect)

Adjustment tips:

• Start low and go slow: Increase doses gradually, especially when trying new products.

• Try different cannabinoid profiles

• Switch methods: Inhaled products may have quicker effects, while edibles have longer-lasting effects.

• Always talk to a qualified medical provider before making major changes, especially if you have other health conditions or take medications.

Evidence:
Cannabis therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Studies emphasize individualized treatment based on close monitoring and symptom response (Hergenrather et al., 2019; Abrams, 2018).

Cannabis affects everyone differently. Certain groups may have unique needs or risks when using medical cannabis. If you fall into one of these categories, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting treatment.

Older Adults

As we age, our bodies process medications differently. Older adults may be more sensitive to cannabis, especially THC. This can increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, or falls. Starting with a very low dose and going slow is key.

Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Cannabis is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. THC can cross the placenta and may affect your baby’s development.

Young Adults 

Medical cannabis is legal for patients 18 and older, but the brain is still developing into the mid-20s. Young adults may be more sensitive to THC’s effects on mood and focus. Choosing balanced or CBD-rich products and monitoring symptoms is encouraged.

Mental Health Conditions

Some patients with anxiety, PTSD, or depression report relief with medical cannabis. However, others may notice their symptoms worsen, especially with high-THC strains. It’s important to track how you feel and use balanced or CBD-rich products when possible.

People with Chronic Illness or on Multiple Medications

If you have liver or kidney issues, or take several medications, cannabis may interact with your treatment. Always inform your specialist about starting medical cannabis to avoid unwanted effects.