Cannabis helps some people where other medicines don’t — especially for chronic neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis spasticity, nausea from chemo, and certain childhood epilepsies (Epidiolex is an FDA-approved CBD medicine). That doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. This page gives short, practical facts so you can make smarter choices.
There are a few main forms: dried flower (smoked or vaporized), oils and tinctures (sublingual), edibles, capsules, and topicals. Inhaled products act fast — minutes — and wear off in a few hours. Edibles take longer to kick in (often 1–3 hours) and can last much longer. Oils and tinctures let you measure small doses. Topicals are mainly for local pain and usually don’t cause a high.
Cannabis contains different active parts. THC gives the psychoactive “high” and can help pain, appetite, and nausea. CBD doesn’t get you high and is useful in anxiety, some pain types, and specific epilepsy syndromes. Many medical products mix THC and CBD to balance benefits and side effects.
Start low, go slow. If you try THC, begin with 1–2.5 mg for edibles or a small inhaled puff and wait to see how you feel. For oils, try a low CBD dose first and increase gradually. Never mix cannabis with heavy alcohol or sedatives. Don’t drive or operate machinery if you feel altered.
Watch for side effects: drowsiness, dizziness, anxiety or paranoia (more likely with higher THC), faster heart rate, and memory or concentration problems. People with a history of psychosis or unstable heart disease should avoid THC. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should not use cannabis.
Drug interactions matter. Cannabis can change how other drugs work by affecting liver enzymes (CYP450). That can alter warfarin, some benzodiazepines, and other medicines. Tell your doctor what you use so they can adjust doses or watch for problems.
Buy smart. Use licensed dispensaries or pharmacies and choose lab-tested products. Tests should show cannabinoid levels, contaminants, and pesticides. Avoid products from unregulated sellers or unknown online vendors. If you shop online, confirm legal shipping rules — many places restrict cross-border cannabis mail.
Practical storage: keep products in original, childproof packaging, out of reach and away from heat. Label doses clearly if you split oils or make edibles at home. Start a simple log: product, dose, time, and effect. That helps you and your doctor fine-tune treatment.
If you’re curious about using medical marijuana, talk to a healthcare provider who knows cannabis or a licensed clinic. They can suggest safe doses, check drug interactions, and help you find legal, tested products. Use real data, track your response, and change plans only with medical advice.
