Medical marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been gaining attention as a potential treatment option for cancer patients. While research on the topic is still in its early stages, findings from CDC research suggest that certain cannabinoids can help relieve some of those side effects.
How can Medical Marijuana Affect the treatment of Cancer?
There is evidence to suggest that cannabis may have some beneficial effects for those who are undergoing cancer treatment. One of the most promising areas of research is the use of cannabis to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a powerful treatment that can effectively kill cancer cells, but can also cause a wide range of side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain. Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing these side effects, which can improve the overall quality of life for cancer patients. Additionally, medical marijuana may also help to improve appetite and sleep, which can be especially beneficial for patients dealing with the fatigue and weight loss that often accompany cancer treatment.
Another area of research is the potential for medical marijuana to directly target cancer cells. Studies have shown that cannabis compounds, such as THC and CBD, may have anti-tumor effects and may even be able to slow the growth of certain types of cancer. While more research is needed in this area, the results of these early studies are promising and suggest that medical marijuana may one day be used as a complementary treatment for cancer.
Medical Marijuana is Different from Recreational Marijuana
Medical marijuana and street marijuana, also known as recreational marijuana, are similar in that they come from the same plant (Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica). However, there are some key differences between the two.
Medical marijuana is specifically cultivated and processed for use in treating medical conditions. It is dispensed by licensed dispensaries and is only available to patients with valid medical marijuana cards. Medical marijuana is typically more potent than street marijuana and is lab-tested to ensure that it meets certain quality standards. The strains of medical marijuana are also selected based on their specific medical benefits, such as reducing pain and nausea, increasing appetite, etc.
Street marijuana, on the other hand, is grown and distributed illegally and is not subject to the same quality standards as medical marijuana. It may be of varying potency and may contain impurities or contaminants. The strains of street marijuana are chosen based on the growers’ preference and for recreational use.
Medical Marijuana for Cancer Treatment Should be Supervised
The use of medical marijuana for cancer treatment should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Cannabis can interact with other medications and may not be appropriate for everyone. Additionally, it is crucial to use a reputable source for obtaining medical marijuana and to follow the recommended dosage since cannabis is still a controlled substance and its legal status varies depending on the location.
Get in touch with the Cancer and Blood Disorders Treatment & Infusion Center for More Information on Medical Marijuana in Cancer Treatment
At Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive care to our patients. While medical marijuana is not yet a mainstream treatment option for cancer, we stay up-to-date on the latest research and are open to discussing the potential benefits of medical marijuana with our patients as an adjunct to their treatment plan.Get in touch with us today to learn more from our professionals by filling out our online form or by phone at 301-638-1007.