Is Medical Marijuana Right for You?
Introduction
Medical marijuana is no longer a fringe topic in American healthcare. With more states legalizing its use for a variety of health conditions, millions of Americans are turning to cannabis as an alternative or complementary therapy. But even with growing popularity, one essential question remains: Is medical marijuana right for you?
This article explores the pros and cons of medical marijuana, who it’s intended for, how it works, and what to consider before making a decision. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or actively exploring cannabis treatment options, this comprehensive guide can help you take the next step.
What Is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana refers to the use of the Cannabis sativa plant and its active compounds—primarily cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—to treat or alleviate symptoms associated with various medical conditions. Unlike recreational cannabis, medical marijuana is recommended and monitored by a licensed healthcare provider to ensure safe, targeted, and effective symptom relief.
Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network that helps regulate critical bodily functions such as pain perception, mood, sleep, appetite, immune response, and inflammation. By modulating this system, medical marijuana may offer therapeutic benefits for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, epilepsy, cancer-related side effects, and more.
Medical marijuana is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is available in a variety of delivery forms, each with its own benefits, onset time, and duration of effects. Choosing the right form depends on your specific symptoms, lifestyle preferences, and treatment goals.
Below are the most common forms of medical marijuana:
1. Cannabis Flower (Smokable Buds)
Also called dry flower or bud, this is the most traditional form of marijuana. It involves the dried and cured parts of the female cannabis plant that are smoked or vaporized.
How it’s used: Typically rolled into joints, packed into pipes, or used in dry herb vaporizers.
Onset: Effects are felt within minutes.
Duration: Lasts 1 to 3 hours.
Best for: Immediate relief of symptoms such as pain, anxiety, or nausea.
Considerations: Smoking is not recommended for people with lung issues. Vaporizing is a safer, smoke-free alternative that still offers quick effects.
2. Oils and Tinctures
Cannabis oils are concentrated extracts infused in a carrier oil like MCT, coconut, or hemp seed oil. Tinctures are alcohol-based liquid extracts of cannabis.
How it’s used: Administered sublingually (under the tongue) using a dropper. You can also add them to food or drinks.
Onset: 15 to 45 minutes when taken under the tongue.
Duration: Lasts 4 to 6 hours.
Best for: Those who prefer smoke-free and dose-controlled consumption. Ideal for managing chronic symptoms like inflammation or insomnia.
Considerations: Tinctures offer precise dosing and are discreet. They are popular among both beginners and experienced patients.
3. Edibles
Edibles are cannabis-infused foods and beverages. Common products include gummies, chocolates, baked goods, teas, and capsules.
How it’s used: Swallowed and digested like regular food.
Onset: 30 to 90 minutes (varies depending on metabolism and stomach contents).
Duration: Effects can last 6 to 8 hours or longer.
Best for: Long-lasting symptom relief, especially for conditions like chronic pain, muscle spasms, and sleep disorders.
Considerations: Because of the delayed onset, it’s important to start with a low dose and wait before consuming more. Overconsumption is a common mistake among beginners.
4. Vaporizers (Vapes)
Vaporizers heat cannabis concentrates or flower at a lower temperature than combustion, creating an inhalable vapor without smoke.
How it’s used: Inhaled through a vape pen or desktop vaporizer.
Onset: Effects appear within minutes.
Duration: Typically 1 to 3 hours.
Best for: Fast relief of acute symptoms such as migraines or anxiety attacks. Discreet and easy to use.
Considerations: Vaping may be less harmful to the lungs than smoking, but the long-term health effects are still being studied. Always use products from licensed dispensaries to avoid contaminants.
5. Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused products applied directly to the skin. These include creams, balms, salves, patches, and lotions.
How it’s used: Rubbed or sprayed onto the affected area.
Onset: Within 15 to 30 minutes.
Duration: Up to 4 hours depending on the product.
Best for: Localized pain, inflammation, arthritis, muscle soreness, and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Considerations: Topicals do not produce psychoactive effects because cannabinoids typically do not enter the bloodstream. However, some transdermal patches may deliver THC or CBD systemically.
6. Capsules and Tablets
Cannabis can also be taken in pill or capsule form, delivering a precise dose of cannabinoids in a format familiar to many patients.
How it’s used: Swallowed with water like any regular supplement.
Onset: 30 to 90 minutes.
Duration: Typically 6 to 8 hours.
Best for: Patients seeking consistent dosing for chronic symptoms.
Considerations: Capsules are odorless, taste-free, and easy to integrate into your daily medication routine.
7. Concentrates and Dabs
Concentrates are highly potent forms of cannabis that contain elevated levels of THC or CBD. This includes products like wax, shatter, crumble, live resin, and distillates. Dabbing is a method of consuming these concentrates using a specialized device.
How it’s used: Heated on a hot surface (called a dab rig or e-nail) and inhaled.
Onset: Immediate.
Duration: 1 to 3 hours.
Best for: Experienced users with a high tolerance or severe conditions requiring potent symptom relief.
Considerations: Due to their strength, concentrates are not recommended for beginners. Improper use may lead to anxiety or excessive intoxication.
Common Conditions Treated with Medical Marijuana
One of the main reasons patients turn to medical marijuana is its potential to provide relief from symptoms that traditional treatments often fail to address. Medical cannabis has gained widespread recognition as a therapeutic option for a variety of physical and mental health conditions. As research continues to evolve, so does our understanding of how cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to support healing, reduce inflammation, and restore balance.
Below are some of the most common medical conditions for which patients seek medical marijuana treatment, along with a closer look at how cannabis may help:
1. Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is one of the most widely approved conditions for medical marijuana use across the United States—and for good reason. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 20.9% of U.S. adults—about 51.6 million people—experience chronic pain. An additional 6.9% of adults—roughly 17.1 million people—live with high-impact chronic pain, meaning it significantly limits their ability to perform daily activities.
Whether the pain stems from injury, inflammation, nerve damage, or degenerative diseases, cannabis is increasingly recognized as a potential alternative to conventional pain medications, especially opioids.
Conditions treated: Arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, migraines, back pain, and cancer-related pain.
How it helps: THC interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system to reduce pain perception, while CBD contributes anti-inflammatory effects and may help minimize the need for high-THC doses.
Benefits: Potential for fast-acting relief, fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to NSAIDs, and a lower risk of dependency than opioids.
2. Anxiety and Depression
While cannabis should be used carefully for mental health, certain strains and formulations—especially those high in CBD and low in THC—may be beneficial for managing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, PTSD, and mild-to-moderate depression.
How it helps: CBD interacts with serotonin receptors and may promote calmness, reduce panic attacks, and support emotional regulation. THC may help some users feel more relaxed, though high doses can worsen anxiety in others.
Benefits: May serve as an alternative to SSRIs or benzodiazepines, offering relief with fewer long-term side effects for some patients.
3. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Medical marijuana has shown promise in helping veterans, trauma survivors, and others with PTSD manage symptoms like flashbacks, insomnia, anxiety, and mood instability.
How it helps: THC may help reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and improve sleep, while CBD can lower anxiety levels and promote emotional resilience.
Scientific support: A growing body of evidence supports cannabis as a complementary therapy to trauma-informed care, helping reduce nightmares and improve overall well-being.
4. Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
One of the most dramatic success stories for medical cannabis is in treating epilepsy and seizure disorders—especially in children with rare forms like Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
How it helps: CBD has anticonvulsant properties and is the main component of Epidiolex, an FDA-approved medication used to treat intractable seizures.
Benefits: Reduced seizure frequency, improved quality of life, and fewer side effects than some anti-epileptic drugs.
5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Muscle Spasticity
Multiple sclerosis is a progressive autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system. One of the most common symptoms of MS is muscle spasticity, which can be painful and debilitating.
How it helps: Cannabis, particularly THC, may reduce muscle stiffness and spasms. Some patients report increased mobility and decreased discomfort.
Research: Clinical trials have shown positive results for cannabis-based medications like Sativex in managing MS-related symptoms.
6. Cancer Support and Chemotherapy Side Effects
Cancer patients often use medical marijuana to manage the side effects of chemotherapy and improve their overall quality of life during treatment.
Conditions addressed: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
How it helps: THC is known to stimulate appetite and reduce nausea, while CBD can provide calming effects. The combination helps patients maintain strength and comfort during treatment.
FDA-approved: Synthetic THC medications like dronabinol (Marinol) are already used to treat chemo-induced nausea.
7. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP), which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
How it helps: THC may temporarily lower IOP, offering short-term relief.
Considerations: Cannabis is not a replacement for glaucoma medication but may be used alongside traditional treatments under physician supervision.
8. Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
Many patients report improved sleep quality when using medical marijuana, especially strains rich in indica genetics or cannabinoids like CBN and THC.
How it helps: THC reduces sleep latency (time it takes to fall asleep), while other cannabinoids may increase deep sleep and reduce REM disruptions.
Best formats: Edibles and tinctures provide longer-lasting effects through the night, while vaporizing can be helpful for fast relief at bedtime.
9. Appetite Loss and Wasting Syndromes
Certain illnesses—such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and anorexia nervosa—can result in severe appetite loss or cachexia (wasting syndrome).
How it helps: THC stimulates appetite and enhances the pleasure of eating. Patients report better food intake, weight stabilization, and improved nutritional health.
Real-world application: This is one of the earliest recognized uses of medical cannabis, and continues to be a top reason for certification.
10. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus are marked by chronic inflammation and immune system dysfunction.
How it helps: Both THC and CBD have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may reduce flare-ups, pain, and digestive discomfort.
Best use: Oils, edibles, and vapes are popular for whole-body effects, while topicals can help with localized joint or muscle pain.
How Does Medical Marijuana Work?
Cannabis affects the body through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a network of receptors that help regulate mood, appetite, pain sensation, memory, and immune function.
The two primary cannabinoids involved are:
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): Causes the "high" but also offers pain relief, appetite stimulation, and relaxation.
CBD (cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating and known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and seizure-controlling properties.
Each strain and product contains different ratios of THC and CBD, meaning you can find formulations that suit your medical needs and tolerance levels.
Related: CBD vs. THC: How Do They Differ?
Pros of Using Medical Marijuana
1. Natural Alternative to Pharmaceuticals
Many patients prefer cannabis over opioids, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants due to fewer side effects and less risk of addiction.
2. Personalized Treatment
From high-CBD oils to THC-dominant strains, medical marijuana allows for customized treatment plans based on your condition, body chemistry, and lifestyle.
3. Improved Quality of Life
Cannabis can enhance sleep, reduce anxiety, elevate mood, and alleviate pain—key factors for improving overall wellness.
4. Legal Protections
In states like Virginia, having a valid medical marijuana certification provides legal protection for purchasing and possessing cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Like any medication, medical marijuana isn’t without risks. Understanding side effects helps you make an informed decision.
1. Short-Term Side Effects
Dry mouth
Red eyes
Increased appetite
Dizziness or drowsiness
Anxiety or paranoia (especially with high-THC strains)
2. Long-Term Risks
Respiratory issues if smoked regularly
Memory or attention problems with prolonged use
Dependency in a small percentage of users
Always start with a low dose and consult a licensed medical provider to monitor for adverse effects.
Who Should Avoid Medical Marijuana?
While medical marijuana has shown promising results in treating a wide range of conditions, it is not suitable for everyone. Just like any medication or therapy, cannabis use carries certain risks and potential interactions—especially for individuals with specific health conditions, unique vulnerabilities, or sensitivities to its active compounds.
If you’re considering medical cannabis, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your medical history, current medications, and potential risk factors. In some cases, cannabis may do more harm than good or may need to be used with caution and close monitoring.
Here are several groups of people who should avoid or be cautious when using medical marijuana:
1. People with a History of Substance Use Disorder
Individuals with a personal or family history of substance abuse or addiction may be at greater risk for developing a dependency on cannabis—especially high-THC products.
Why it matters: THC has psychoactive effects that can be habit-forming for some individuals, particularly when used frequently or in large doses.
Recommendation: These patients should either avoid medical marijuana or use CBD-dominant products under strict medical supervision.
2. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Medical marijuana is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as cannabinoids can pass through the placenta and breast milk, potentially affecting the development of the fetus or infant.
Risks: Studies suggest potential links between prenatal cannabis exposure and low birth weight, developmental delays, and behavioral issues.
Official guidance: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises against cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation.
Related: Can You Use CBD While Pregnant?
3. Adolescents and Young Adults (Under 25)
The brains of adolescents and young adults are still developing, and regular exposure to THC during this period can impact cognitive function, memory, motivation, and mental health.
Concerns: Early and frequent cannabis use has been associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and in some cases, psychosis or schizophrenia—especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition.
Exception: In rare cases (e.g., severe epilepsy), medical cannabis may be approved for minors under close pediatric supervision, usually in the form of CBD-only products.
4. Individuals with Heart or Cardiovascular Conditions
People with pre-existing heart conditions, high blood pressure, or risk of stroke should approach medical marijuana cautiously.
Why?: THC can increase heart rate and alter blood pressure, which may be dangerous for individuals with heart disease or irregular rhythms.
Symptoms to watch for: Chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath during cannabis use should be reported to a doctor immediately.
5. People with a History of Psychosis or Schizophrenia
Cannabis, particularly high-THC strains, can exacerbate or trigger psychotic episodes in people predisposed to schizophrenia or related disorders.
Risks: THC can cause hallucinations, paranoia, and anxiety—especially in vulnerable individuals.
Better options: CBD-rich products may offer some benefits for anxiety and mood regulation, but should only be used under psychiatric supervision in these cases.
6. Patients Taking Certain Medications
Cannabis may interact with prescription medications, affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Examples of interactions:
Anticoagulants (like warfarin): cannabis may increase bleeding risk.
Sedatives and sleep medications: THC may intensify sedative effects, leading to drowsiness or cognitive impairment.
Anti-seizure medications: dosage adjustments may be needed when combining with CBD.
What to do: Always provide a full list of medications during your cannabis consultation. Your provider can help prevent adverse interactions.
7. Individuals with Poor Liver or Kidney Function
Because cannabis is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys, patients with significant liver or kidney disease may have trouble processing cannabinoids.
Concerns: Impaired organ function can alter how cannabis is absorbed, leading to stronger-than-expected effects or prolonged intoxication.
Solution: Dose adjustments or alternative delivery methods may be needed—or cannabis may not be recommended at all, depending on the severity of organ impairment.
8. Frail Elderly Patients with Fall Risk
Older adults may benefit from cannabis, particularly for pain, sleep, and anxiety. However, frail seniors or those with poor balance should proceed cautiously.
Why?: Cannabis can cause dizziness, sedation, or confusion, which increases the risk of falls, especially in those who are already mobility-impaired or on multiple medications.
Recommendation: Start with very low doses, avoid high-THC strains, and monitor closely for side effects.
9. People Required to Undergo Routine Drug Testing
Even if medical marijuana is legal in your state, it may still be prohibited by your employer, especially in federally regulated jobs or industries that require routine drug testing.
Examples: Truck drivers, federal employees, law enforcement, military personnel, or individuals in safety-sensitive positions.
What to know: A positive THC drug test—even with a valid medical marijuana card—can lead to disciplinary action or termination in some workplaces. Always understand your employment policies before beginning cannabis treatment.
Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting cannabis, especially if you’re taking medications or have underlying health issues.
How to Qualify for Medical Marijuana
Qualifying for medical marijuana depends on your state’s laws. In Virginia, for example, patients must:
Be diagnosed with a qualifying condition (e.g., chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, anxiety)
Be evaluated by a licensed medical marijuana doctor
Receive a written certification
Optional: Register with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy for a physical card
Learn more about Virginia medical marijuana card requirements here.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online
Thanks to telemedicine, getting a medical marijuana evaluation is easier than ever. Here’s how the process typically works:
Step 1: Book a Virtual Appointment
Choose a HIPAA-compliant platform like CannabisMD TeleMed, which connects you with a licensed marijuana doctor in Virginia.
Step 2: Meet with a Doctor
Discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. The provider will determine if you qualify for medical marijuana.
Step 3: Receive Your Certification
If approved, you’ll get an email or downloadable copy of your certification—often on the same day.
Step 4: Shop at a Dispensary
Take your certification to any licensed dispensary in Virginia to begin exploring cannabis products suited to your condition.
What to Expect at Your First Consultation
If you’re new to medical cannabis, your first consultation may feel a bit intimidating—but it’s really just a conversation. Your provider will likely:
Ask about your medical history and current medications
Discuss symptoms and previous treatments
Recommend suitable cannabis products and dosages
Offer education on methods of use (smoking, edibles, tinctures, etc.)
Don’t worry—you won’t be judged. Medical marijuana doctors specialize in helping patients feel comfortable and confident.
Final Thoughts: Is Medical Marijuana Right for You?
Medical marijuana may be the missing piece in your wellness puzzle. Whether you're managing pain, battling anxiety, or looking for safer alternatives to pharmaceuticals, cannabis offers natural relief backed by science and patient success stories.
That said, cannabis isn’t for everyone. The key is working with a certified provider who understands your unique needs and can guide you safely through the process.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you live in Virginia and are considering medical cannabis, CannabisMD TeleMed is here to help. With thousands of 5-star reviews, same-day appointments, and compassionate licensed providers, we make it easy to access safe, legal, and effective cannabis care.
Book your online consultation today and discover if medical marijuana is right for you.
NOTE: “Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if medical marijuana is right for you!”
FAQs
Who should not use marijuana?
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of psychosis or schizophrenia, or suffer from severe heart conditions should avoid marijuana. It’s also not recommended for individuals under 25, especially adolescents, due to potential effects on brain development. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting cannabis treatment.
What is medical marijuana best used for?
Medical marijuana is commonly used to manage chronic pain, reduce anxiety, stimulate appetite, and ease symptoms related to conditions like PTSD, epilepsy, and cancer. It offers an alternative to traditional medications, especially for patients seeking more natural or holistic treatments. Its effectiveness depends on the specific condition and how the cannabis is administered.
What are the rules around medical marijuana?
Rules vary by state, but typically, patients must have a qualifying condition and receive certification from a licensed healthcare provider. In most states, you can only purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries with a valid medical card or certificate. Some states also require registration with a state cannabis program.
Is marijuana bad for your heart?
Marijuana can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may be risky for people with existing cardiovascular conditions. While occasional use may be tolerated by healthy individuals, those with heart disease should consult a doctor before using cannabis. High-THC strains in particular may pose greater risks.
What are the side effects of medicinal marijuana?
Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, increased appetite, and temporary memory or coordination issues. High doses of THC may also cause anxiety or paranoia in some individuals. Most side effects are mild and manageable, especially with proper dosing and medical guidance.
