What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its chemicals as medicine. Cannabis contains more than 100 chemicals called cannabinoids. The two most commonly known cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the chemical that causes the “high” associated with marijuana use, while CBD has been found to have medical benefits without the psychoactive effects.
Medical Marijuana Legalization in Maryland
Medical marijuana is legal in Maryland, but it can only be used for medical purposes under the state’s Medical Cannabis Program. The program is overseen by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC), which is responsible for regulating the production, distribution, and use of medical marijuana in the state.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland
To get a medical marijuana card in Maryland, patients must first register with the MMCC. The registration process involves submitting an application, providing medical documentation, and paying a fee. Once approved, patients can purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries in the state.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
To qualify for medical marijuana in Maryland, patients must have a debilitating medical condition that is severe in nature and includes at least one of the following:
- Cachexia, anorexia, or wasting syndrome
- Severe or chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Seizures
- Severe or persistent muscle spasms
- Glaucoma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Any other condition that is severe and resistant to conventional medicine
Registration Process
The registration process for medical marijuana in Maryland involves the following steps:
- Visit the MMCC website and create an account.
- Complete the patient application form and upload medical documentation.
- Pay the registration fee of $50.
- Wait for approval from the MMCC.
Purchasing Medical Marijuana
Once approved, patients can purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries in Maryland. Patients are limited to purchasing up to 120 grams of dried flower or the equivalent in other forms, such as edibles, tinctures, or concentrates, over a 30-day period. Medical marijuana cannot be smoked in public or on federal property.
Benefits and Risks of Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana has been found to have many potential benefits, including:
- Relief from chronic pain
- Reduction of nausea and vomiting
- Improvement of appetite and weight gain in people with HIV/AIDS
- Reduction of muscle spasms and stiffness in people with multiple sclerosis
- Reduction of seizures in people with epilepsy
- Reduction of symptoms of PTSD
However, medical marijuana also carries risks and potential side effects, including:
- Impaired memory and concentration
- Impaired coordination and reaction time
- Increased heart rate
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Dry mouth and throat
- Fatigue
- Paranoia or hallucinations in high doses
It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare providers before using medical marijuana to determine if it is a safe and effective treatment option for their specific medical condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, medical marijuana is legal in Maryland for the treatment of certain debilitating medical conditions. To obtain a medical marijuana card, patients must register with the MMCC and provide documentation of their medical condition. While medical marijuana has many potential benefits, it also carries risks and potential side effects, and patients should always consult with their healthcare providers before using it as a treatment option.
