The Legal Status of Medical Marijuana in North Carolina
Marijuana is illegal for both recreational and medical use in North Carolina. However, some patients with qualifying medical conditions can access medical marijuana through the state’s pilot program as of July 2021. This program allows a limited number of patients to use marijuana extracts such as CBD oil and THC-A oil with a recommendation from their physician.
The Qualifying Medical Conditions
Only patients with intractable epilepsy, autism, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, mitochondrial disease, and terminal cancer are eligible to participate in North Carolina’s medical marijuana program. This limited list of qualifying conditions has been a point of controversy and concern for those who believe that medical marijuana can benefit patients with a wider range of medical conditions.
The Need for Medical Marijuana in North Carolina
North Carolina has one of the highest rates of opioid overdose deaths in the country, and many advocates believe medical marijuana could help reduce these numbers. Furthermore, patients with debilitating medical conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis may find relief from their symptoms through the use of medical marijuana.
Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Pain Relief
Medical marijuana is known to have analgesic effects, which means it can relieve pain. This is possible because the cannabinoids in marijuana are similar in structure to the body’s own endocannabinoids. This similarity allows the cannabinoids to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and reduce pain sensation.
Treatment of Epilepsy
One of the most well-known benefits of medical marijuana is its ability to treat epilepsy. In fact, the FDA has approved a drug called Epidiolex, which is a purified form of CBD, for the treatment of two rare forms of childhood epilepsy.
Reduction of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms
Medical marijuana may also help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Some studies have shown that marijuana can help reduce symptoms of anxiety by reducing the activity in the amygdala, which is the part of the brain responsible for processing fear.
Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Marijuana may also help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In a small study, patients who smoked marijuana reported significant improvements in tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, which are common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Addiction and Dependence
Marijuana use can lead to addiction and dependence, especially when used for recreational purposes over a long period of time. However, the risk of addiction and dependence is lower for medical marijuana users, as they tend to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Impaired Cognitive Function
Marijuana use can also impair cognitive function, especially in adolescents. This impairment can affect memory, attention, and decision-making skills.
Respiratory Problems
Smoking marijuana can cause respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and lung infections. However, this risk can be reduced by using alternative methods of consumption, such as edibles or vaporizers.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana has the potential to provide significant health benefits, especially for patients with qualifying medical conditions. However, it is important to understand the potential risks and side effects of marijuana use, and to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional. With continued research, it is possible that medical marijuana may become more widely available to those who could benefit from it in North Carolina and other states.
