Medical cannabis

Medical cannabis, also referred to as medical marijuana, is a herbal drug derived from plants of the genus Cannabis. It is used as a treatment option for specific symptoms or diseases [1].

Medical cannabis contains active compounds like delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) [2]. Methods for taking medical cannabis include inhalation (vaping or smoking), oral ingestion (oils, tinctures, capsules, or edibles), topical application (salves, balms, or patches), and suppositories [3].

However, marijuana use can lead to substance use disorder, a medical illness characterized by the inability to stop using it despite its harmful effects on one’s health and life [4].

Despite this, medical marijuana is known to have many medical treatments and uses, with less severe side effects than many prescribed medications, and is legalized in 32 out of 50 states in the US [5].