Medical Cannabis Education

Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its derivatives for therapeutic purposes. The plant contains more than 100 different cannabinoids, which are active ingredients known for their medicinal properties. [1]

The two most well-known cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, THC, is what gives users a "high", while CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. In addition to cannabinoids, the cannabis plant contains terpenes, which are aromatic compounds that give the plant its distinct smell and flavor. Terpenes also have therapeutic properties and can forge ahead synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance their effects. [2]

When medical cannabis is consumed, the cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system that regulates various physiological processes, such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and immune function. The cannabinoids in medical cannabis mimic the effects of the endocannabinoids manufactured by the body and bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and other organs to regulate these processes.

THC binds primarily to the CB1 receptor, which is established in high concentrations in the brain and central nervous system. This interaction leads to the euphoric and psychoactive effects associated with marijuana use. CBD, on the other hand, has a low affinity for the CB1 receptor and primarily binds to the CB2 receptor that’s housed in the immune system and peripheral tissues. CBD has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antipsychotic effects, among others. [3] [4]

Cannabis has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. The earliest recorded use of cannabis as medicine dates back to ancient China, where it was used to treat a plethora of ailments such as malaria, constipation, and menstrual cramps. From there, its use spread to other parts of Asia and the Middle East, eventually reaching Europe in the 19th century.

In the United States, cannabis was commonly used as medicine in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was prescribed for conditions such as pain, nausea, and insomnia, among others. However, with the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act in 1937, cannabis was effectively banned for both medicinal and recreational use.

It wasn't until the 1990s that the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes began to gain widespread attention once again. In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis with the passage of the Compassionate Use Act, followed by several other states in the following years.

In recent years, there’s been a growing body of research supporting the use of cannabis for a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and multiple sclerosis spasticity. Despite the growing acceptance of medical cannabis, however, there is still much debate over its efficacy and safety. As such, it remains imperative for patients and medical professionals alike to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before looking to cannabis as a medical treatment. [5] [6] [7]

Cannabis use is guided by proper dosing, strain selection, and ingestion methods. To prevent adverse effects, it is imperative to initiate treatment with a low dose and gradually increase it as appropriate. The ideal dosage may vary depending on the patient's clinical condition, weight, and cannabis tolerance level.

Strain selection is a crucial aspect of medical cannabis therapy, given that different strains have varying chemical compositions and may confer distinct therapeutic benefits. This will be elaborated upon in a subsequent section.

There are various methods of ingesting medical cannabis, including inhalation (smoking or vaping), oral ingestion (edibles or tinctures), and topical application (creams or lotions). Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the preferred method may vary depending on the individual's needs and preferences. [8] [9]

Safety considerations are sacrosanct when using medical cannabis. Potential side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Long-term use of cannabis may also lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. [10]

Before beginning use of medical cannabis, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in cannabis medicine. Individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders should use caution when using cannabis, as it may exacerbate symptoms. It is also essential to ensure that medical cannabis does not interact with other medications the individual may be consuming.

Preeminently, there are three types of medical cannabis: indica, sativa, and hybrid. Each of these variations differs in its chemical composition, physical appearance, and effects on the body.

Indica strains are widely known for their relaxing and sedative effects. They are typically high in CBD and low in THC, which makes them ideal for conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. Indica strains also have a more earthy or musky aroma and are characterized by their short, bushy plants with broad leaves.

Sativa strains, on the other hand, are acknowledged for their energizing and uplifting effects. They are typically high in THC and low in CBD, which makes them ideal for conditions like depression, fatigue, and ADHD. Sativa strains also have a more fruity or spicy aroma and are characterized by their tall, slender plants with narrow leaves.

Hybrid strains are a combination of both indica and sativa strains. Hybrids can be either indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced in their effects, depending on the specific strain and the percentage of each parent strain used in the breeding process. This allows for a wide range of effects and therapeutic benefits, depending on the specific strain. [11] [12] [13]

The terms "medical cannabis" and "medical marijuana" are often used interchangeably, but they have different, nuanced meanings. Medical marijuana typically refers to the use of the whole, unprocessed cannabis plant or its extracts to treat symptoms or conditions.

Medical cannabis, on the other hand, can refer to any cannabis-based product used for medical purposes, including those that are not derived from the whole plant. This can include synthetic cannabinoids or pharmaceutical formulations of cannabinoids. It typically contains higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC compared to recreational cannabis. Medical cannabis is often available in the form of oils, tinctures, capsules, and other products.

In terms of legal status, the use of medical cannabis and medical marijuana varies by jurisdiction. While some countries have legalized both for medical use, others have only legalized medical cannabis. Additionally, medical cannabis is prescribed by a medical professional and is intended to address specific medical conditions, while medical marijuana may be used more broadly for symptom relief. [14]

Medical cannabis has shown promise in treating a range of conditions, primarily due to its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body. Because it is becoming increasingly popular as a potential therapeutic option, it is important that, just as with any other treatment, its benefits and risks be scrutinized.

• Pain Relief
  
  Medical cannabis is known for its pain-blocking properties. It has the potential to help alleviate chronic pain caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, and cancer-related pain. [15] [16]


• Anxiety Reduction
  
  Medical cannabis may also help reduce anxiety and stress levels in patients. It has been used to treat conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). [17] [18]


• Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  
  Some studies have found that medical cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties that can help curtail inflammation in the body. This property may help treat conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). [19] [20]


• Other Potential Benefits
  
  Medical cannabis has also been studied for its potential to treat other conditions such as epilepsy, nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, and glaucoma. [21] [22] [23]

• Addiction
  
  Like any drug, medical cannabis can be addictive. Regular use of medical cannabis can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. [10]


• Impaired Cognitive Function
  
  Medical cannabis can impair cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. This can make it dangerous for patients to operate heavy machinery or perform tasks that require mental alertness. [24] [25]


• Negative Effects on Mental Health
  
  Medical cannabis can also have negative effects on mental health, especially in people who are predisposed to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. [26] [27]


• Other Potential Risks
  
  Medical cannabis can interact with other medications, and its use may be contraindicated for people with certain medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease.

Factors that can influence the risks associated with medical cannabis use include the patient's age, overall health status, and dosage. Patients should always discuss the potential risks and benefits of medical cannabis use with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. It's also important to use medical cannabis only under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.

If you're pursuing education with a strong interest in medical cannabis, there are a variety of career opportunities available to you in this exciting and rapidly evolving industry.

• Medical Cannabis Physician
  
  Medical cannabis physicians specialize in evaluating patients who may benefit from medical cannabis treatment. They assess patients' medical histories, provide education on the use of medical cannabis, and determine whether medical cannabis may be an appropriate treatment option for their patients.


• Medical Cannabis Consultant
  
  Medical cannabis consultants offer guidance and support to medical cannabis patients. They may work in dispensaries or medical clinics, helping patients choose appropriate strains and products and providing education on dosing, administration, and potential side effects.


• Medical Cannabis Researcher
  
  Medical cannabis researchers conduct scientific studies on the effects of medical cannabis on various health conditions. They may work in academic or industrial settings, collaborating with other scientists to advance our understanding of medical cannabis and its promising therapeutic benefits.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the medical cannabis industry, there are a few educational and licensing requirements you should be aware of. Depending on your state's laws, you may need to complete additional training or certification programs in order to work with medical cannabis patients. You will also need to retain a current medical license and stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments in the medical cannabis field.

It's important to note that the medical cannabis industry is still relatively new and rapidly evolving, so there may be additional educational and licensing requirements as the industry grows and matures. However, with a strong commitment to education and a passion for helping patients, you can build a rewarding career in the medical cannabis industry as a clinician.

Obtaining a medical cannabis certificate can provide numerous benefits to healthcare professionals looking to expand their expertise. With the legalization of cannabis in many states and the potential for federal decriminalization in the near future, the need for qualified cannabis healthcare professionals is on the rise.

If you’re a future or current healthcare professional looking to expand your knowledge and skill set in cannabis medicine, consider enrolling in Pacific College’s medical cannabis certificate program today. You will be able to gain a comprehensive understanding of cannabis pharmacology, the latest research on cannabis-based therapies, as well as the legal and ethical considerations that come with recommending cannabis as a treatment option, all of which will enable you to render safe, effective, and compassionate treatment options to patients for a variety of conditions.

Don’t miss out. Stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving industry and apply today to take the first step towards a rewarding career as a qualified cannabis healthcare professional!

As both society and education have undergone transformational shifts, the College itself has adapted, with programs and departments undergoing modifications to realign with these evolving demands. A Master's of Medical Cannabis Therapeutics (MS-MCT) was offered from 2022-23 but the program has now been retired. For more info about the MS-MCT, see the archived program page.