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What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia that causes memory loss and cognitive impairment. Dementia refers to a loss of cognitive abilities, problems with remembering, and struggles with daily life and activities. Dementia isn’t considered a normal part of aging, even though many older adults do experience symptoms.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that gets worse with time. Alzheimer’s may start out with some mild memory loss, and in later stages it can become difficult for the patient to communicate and function.

No approved cures for Alzheimer’s currently exist, but there are options to treat the symptoms. Medications called cholinesterase inhibitors are typically prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. These drugs may help reduce some symptoms and help control some behavioral symptoms. 

How Might Cannabis Help? 

When you use cannabis, cannabinoids make their way to the bloodstream attaching themselves to the endocannabinoid system’s (ECS) cannabinoid receptors, CB1, and CB2. In the brain, these receptors are concentrated in neurons associated with memory, thinking, and coordination. Research suggests that when THC binds to the CB receptors, it may affect aging brains. Its apparent ability to help the body remove amyloid-beta accumulation is massive news for Alzheimer’s patients. Cannabis, or is thought to have the ability to remove clumps of amyloid-beta protein (a toxic component that builds up like a plaque in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients) from the brain. 

According to current research, medical marijuana may play a part in disrupting the neurodegenerative process that drives the disease’s progression. A 2019 review of current research on dementia aimed to understand current trends. The study summarized findings that the CBD components of cannabis might be useful to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s. CBD is suspected to be able to suppress the main causal factors of Alzheimer’s. Research further suggested that using CBD and THC together could be more useful than using CBD or THC alone (entourage effect).

In another recent study by the National Library of Medicine, researchers found that CBD has potential as a therapy to help curb cognitive decline and alleviate some Alzheimer’s symptoms. They looked at the protein interleukin 33 (IL-33) and found that at high levels, it has been linked to beta-amyloid buildup, a biomarker of Alzheimer’s. The TREM-2 protein, encoded by the TREM-2 gene, is also linked to the neurodegenerative disease. Certain mutations in TREM2 strongly increase risk for late-onset Alzheimer’s. According to the study authors, research suggests that both the IL-33 and TREM-2 proteins are affected by CBD in a way that helps brain cell communication. 

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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

AKA: Lou Gehrig’s Disease

This disease is a degenerative, neurological disease that attacks the central nervous system, which includes the brain and the spinal cord.  The cause of ALS is not fully understood but some research would point to a few origins including gene mutation, unusual immune responses and even chemical imbalance. Smoking or toxic environmental exposure may cause ALS symptoms to begin. The symptoms of ALS include fine and gross motor skill issues such as difficulty with walking, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing and increased risk of falling. ALS does not have a known cure.  

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with ALS?

Clinical evidence presented in 2004, 2010, and 2015 have shown that medical marijuana can reduce symptoms of ALS by stimulating appetite, reducing pain and relaxing muscles. In addition, the 2010 study showed Medical Marijuana to be a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. This means that it has neuroprotective results and may even prolong neuronal cell life span. 

Cachexia

AKA: Wasting Syndrome

Cachexia is a condition in which a patient will undergo excessive weight loss, muscle loss and fat loss.  This condition is often secondary to another disease like Anorexia, HIV/AIDS and cancer.  Cachexia can occur in elderly patients with no known underlying causes.  The effects of cachexia include inability to concentrate, fatigue, depression and overall diminished quality of life.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Cachexia?

The primary use of Medical Marijuana in treating Cachexia is its ability to stimulate appetite, resulting in increased caloric (food) intake.  It can also reduce vomiting and nausea and improve the effects of depression.  Higher THC strains of Medical Marijuana will tend to be the best options for treating patients with Cachexia. 

Cancer

Cancer can come in many forms and is characterized by abnormal cells developing and dividing in an uncontrolled manner in the human body.  Cancer can form almost anywhere in the body.  Cancer cells are invasive and continue to divide and increase in number.  Cancer can cause many symptoms from pain to changes in weight and fatigue.  Gene mutations are the cause of cancer.  Your family history and environmental factors will affect your chances of developing cancer. While some cancers can be cured, others can be fatal. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve a patient’s survival rate.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Cancer?

Studies in 2015 and 2016 found that CBD (a major chemical compound in Medical Marijuana) demonstrated an ability to inhibit the growth of tumor cells in animals. Medical marijuana is very effective at treating symptoms of cancer including alleviating fatigue, pain, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting and anxiety.  Furthermore, a 2012 study published in PubMed showed that conventional cancer treatment combined with cannabinoids (Chemical compounds in Medical Marijuana) had a synergistic effect against cancer and tumor cells.  This means that by combining conventional treatment with Medical Marijuana, patients may benefit more than from just conventional treatment alone. 

Chronic Pain

Pain or related symptoms lasting more than 3 months.

Any condition that results in pain, or related symptoms, that lasts more than 3 months may be considered a qualifying condition under chronic pain. The intensity of the pain as well as other symptoms resulting from the painful condition such as anxiety, depression and sleeplessness can be considered in the overall assessment by our physicians when conducting a patient interview. Furthermore, the cause of the chronic pain condition can be fairly broad and can include the following commonly encountered “head to toe” every day problems:

Headaches

Migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches

Neck Pain

Muscle strains, herniated disks, and arthritis related conditions

Shoulder Pain

Labral tears, rotator cuff injuries, arthritis related conditions

Chest Pain

Rib and muscle injuries, chronic pain secondary to pulmonary and respiratory issues, heartburn and acid reflux

Arms/Hands

Muscle or tendon injuries, prior broken bones, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, any type of arthritis, vascular disease and Reynaud’s Syndrome/Disease.

Abdominal Pain

Inflammatory bowel disease, hernias, prior organ injuries or surgeries involving the liver, spleen or kidneys, mesenteric ischemia, Herpes Zoster and shingles

Pelvic Pain: Male

Kidney stones, Varicoceles, Prostrate related pain, testicular pain, inguinal hernias, pelvic nerve compression and SI joint pain

Pelvic Pain: Female

Menstrual cramps, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Endometriosis/Endometritis, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, pain during sexual intercourse, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, pelvic nerve compression and SI joint pain

Legs

Hip and Knee pain or prior injuries, muscle or tendon strains, pulls, or tears, any broken bones, vascular pain secondary to poor circulation, Charley horse and cramps that become painful while walking or at night, restless leg syndrome

Neurological

Peripheral or diabetic neuropathy, sciatica, shingles, Lyme’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy and Seizure disorders

Any Cancer or Surgical Related Pain

Any pain from cancer or surgical procedures

Foot and Ankle

Any type of tendon or bone injury, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injury, bunions, ankle sprains and strains, prior foot surgeries, burning pain secondary to diabetic neuropathy

How Medical Marijuana Helps Patients with Chronic Pain

Medical Marijuana helps to control or block the pain associated with the possible causes listed above. If you have one or more of these Chronic Pain conditions, you may qualify for treatment with medical marijuana.

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Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory condition involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which can result in permanent intestinal damage. Patients suffering from this disease can become malnourished due to an inability to properly absorb nutrients, digest food and eliminate waste. Patients can experience severe chronic pain due to the inflammation in the intestinal tract.  This can cause patients to lose their appetite and feel nauseous.  Crohn’s Disease can also result in patients developing other health issues like bowel obstructions, ulcers, fistulas, anal fissures and even colon cancer.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Crohn’s Disease?

Inflammatory Bowel diseases, including Crohn’s, and the effectiveness of medical marijuana to treat symptoms has been heavily researched with very positive results.  Dr. Jeff Hergenrather, M.D. published a paper in 2005 that many called groundbreaking.  The benefits of Medical Marijuana were numerous and included weight gain, improved appetite, and reduced vomiting, fatigue and depression as well as an overall increase in physical activity. In another study, “Cannabis induces a clinical response in patients with Crohn’s disease: a prospective placebo-controlled study,” patients were given an 8-week treatment of Medical Marijuana. Amazingly, 45% of the patients experienced complete remission of their Crohn’s disease.

Epilepsy and Seizure disorders

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder – the severity of the condition can vary.

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder; the severity of the condition can vary from patient to patient.  A seizure occurs in a patient when the body experiences an abnormal electrical storm in the brain.  This electrical storm causes the individual to experience changes in consciousness and sensation.  It manifests outwardly in a number of different ways including small eye flickers on the mild end to full body convulsions on the more severe end. 

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Epilepsy and Seizure disorders?

THC and CBD, cannabinoids abundant in marijuana, exert their effects on both central and peripheral nervous systems. CBD specifically has shown promise in early research studies to have anti-seizure potential.   

Fibromyalgia

The medical condition known as fibromyalgia can cause symptoms ranging from widespread musculoskeletal pain and increases in a pain response to pressure. Secondary symptoms include a feeling of exhaustion, problems sleeping and difficulty with memory and cognition.  Other less common symptoms include restless leg, sensitivity to light and bowel and bladder issues.  Some research would suggest Fibromyalgia can be connected to other conditions like PTSD and Anxiety.  While the root cause of Fibromyalgia is not well understood it is thought to be brought on by both genetic and environmental factors. The problem lies in the Central nervous system.  The condition is recognized by the NIH. There is not a diagnostic test and the diagnosis is arrived at by elimination of other chronic conditions.  This condition disproportionately affects at roughly twice the rate of men.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Fibromyalgia?

While the benefits of medical cannabis in reducing chronic pain have been researched, studies directly looking at the effectiveness of medical cannabis at reducing symptoms specific to Fibromyalgia have been limited.  That was until 2018 when an Israeli based study was published. The study involved patients who were licensed to use Medical cannabis that were also diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. The results were hugely positive.  What’s even more impressive is that most patients were experiencing significantly less symptoms with as little as one gram a day.  So why does it help?  Research suggests that the condition of Fibromyalgia results from a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system.  The compounds in medical cannabis act on the endocannabinoid system to modulate it and decrease the pain response in both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.  That along with medical cannabises known ability to improve sleep result in a big win for Fibromyalgia patients looking for an alternative treatment.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that results in damage to the optic nerve causing vision loss.  Glaucoma can be broken down into two different types. Open-angle, which is the most common type, is caused when the drainage angle for fluid within the eye remains open.  This type of glaucoma happens over time and does not cause pain.  Peripheral vision will begin to decrease followed by central vision resulting in blindness if left untreated.  Closed-angle glaucoma can happen gradually or without warning. This type of glaucoma can cause severe pain, blurred vision, redness, dilated pupils and nausea. The risk factors include age, family history and prolonged steroid use.  Higher eye pressure has been shown to be connected to an increase in the tendency to develop glaucoma as well.  Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Glaucoma?

Several studies have shown smoking marijuana can result in a decrease in eye pressure.  This is precisely the purpose of prescription medications given to those who suffer from glaucoma.  This makes medical cannabis a wonderful adjunct to traditional medicine or useful in cases where patients cannot tolerate traditional treatment.  The studies have shown the decrease in eye pressure can last on average 3 to 4 hours.  Future studies are looking at the effectiveness of edible forms to reduce eye pressures for longer durations.  Even further down the road will be research to understand what elements of medical cannabis result in the reduction of eye pressure. 

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral disease that infects the liver. When an individual is infected with Hepatitis C inflammation in the liver can occur. The body’s natural response is to activate the immune system. This unfortunately leads to our own immune system attacking healthy liver cells causing further liver damage. Hep C for short, is spread from blood-to-blood contact, the sharing of drug needles, the sharing of toothbrushes, and sex. Mothers can also pass along the infection to their babies during childbirth. While symptoms are not always noticeable at first or ever, chronic Hep C can lead to depression, chronic fatigue, yellow discoloration to the skin (jaundice), fluid buildup in the abdomen, bruising easily, and dark colored urine.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Hepatitis C?

While medical marijuana cannot treat Hepatitis C, it can be used as an adjunct to other prescribed therapies to reduce the symptoms of the disease. Medical Marijuana’s ability to improve mood, reduce pain, and stimulate activity can provide you with symptom relief.

A correlation exists between the use of medical marijuana and hepatitis C symptoms. Research suggests medical marijuana has therapeutic benefits if you’re suffering from HCV. Additionally, the medicine’s side effects are typically mild and classified as “low risk,” with euphoric mood changes among the most frequent.

Scientific and anecdotal evidence tell us medical marijuana is a safe, effective medicine that helps patients with Hepatitis C endure the side effects of treatment. Marijuana can help to alleviate side effects such as aches and pains, decreased appetite and nausea.

AIDS/HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a disease that can be treated but not cured.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a disease that can be treated but not cured. The disease attacks and destroys white blood cells known as T Cells that are needed to fight other diseases and infections.  The effect is a weakening of an infected person’s immune system.  This can cause someone with HIV to suffer from a variety of symptoms and medical conditions.  The current treatment for AIDS/HIV is Antiretroviral Therapy, also known as ART.  This can help slow and in some patients stop the progression of the disease. 

How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with HIV/AIDS?

Research from the University of Washington and the University of California concluded that the cannabinoids in medical marijuana may have immunological benefit by reducing the frequency of activated T Cells.  This in turn may reduce the patient’s risk of developing illnesses that can often complicate the health of HIV/AIDS patients. 

Multiple Sclerosis

A degenerative disease of the central nervous system

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Symptoms of MS vary in range from a single symptom to multiple symptoms and mild in intensity to severe. Symptoms can include pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness or spasms, tremors, inflammation, depression, loss of muscle coordination or bladder control.

MS is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the protective covering called myelin, that insulate nerve fibers. This myelin sheath enables the brain to communicate with the rest of the body by allowing electrical impulses to travel along the nerve fibers quickly and efficiently. When myelin is damaged, electrical impulses or communication from the brain to the body is slowed or blocked causing MS symptoms.

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How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Much of the data or research collected on the effects of medical marijuana on MS symptoms come from patient surveys, self-reported assessments and observational studies. Two active compounds found in medical marijuana that have been studied in the management of MS include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).  According to a study published in American Academy of Neurology among patients from the University of Rochester MS Center, results found majority of subjects found medical marijuana helpful in managing symptoms such as spasticity and pain.  The study also reported more than half the subjects felt their quality of life improved with the use of medical marijuana. Another promising study published in 2016 in European Neurology studied patients with treatment-resistant MS spasticity.  Real-life data from the study confirmed that adding THC:CBD oromucosal spray was an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for those patients.

Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome

A mental health disorder that develops after you experience a traumatic, life-threatening, or highly stressful event.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that develops after you experience a traumatic, life-threatening, or highly stressful event.  Examples include sexual assault, war, death of someone close, or a natural disaster.  This is an anxiety disorder that can make it difficult to function to have a “normal” life.  It can last from months to years effecting social relationships, the ability to work and carry out daily tasks like going to the grocery store.  Common symptoms include overwhelming feelings of fear, sadness, anger, hopelessness, or irritability, nightmares, negative outbursts, and being on guard. 

In PTSD, the part of the brain responsible for the “flight-or-fight” response, called the amygdala, becomes overactive. Its job is to heighten our senses to be ready to act during perceived threat.  Another part of the brain that assesses the threat and brings the “flight-or-fight” response down when there is no actual threat is called the prefrontal cortex, and it becomes under-active.

How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with PTSD?

Many patients have reported medical marijuana to help in PTSD. According to an article published by Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute at University of Washington, anecdotal and case-reports showed evidence marijuana decreased flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety and hyperarousal in PTSD.  A recent trial showed canniboids, an active compound found in medical marijuana, lowered the amygdala’s response and increased the prefrontal cortex response to threat.  Other research has noted participants re-experienced the trauma decreased and had less avoidance of situations that reminded them of the trauma.  These continued reports make medical marijuana an effective treatment for PTSD.

Spinal Cord Disease or Injury

A fairly broad term used for any disease or damage that effects the spinal cord

Spinal cord disease or injury is a fairly broad term used for any disease or damage that effects the spinal cord.  Extending from the neck to lower back, it is full of nerves responsible for movement and sensation.  Symptoms related to the spinal cord can vary greatly and may include pain, altered sensation, numbness, muscle weakness, or muscle spasms.  Damage to the nerve fibers can affect movement in your arms or legs, bladder control, sexual function, even the ability to breath.

How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with Spinal Cord Disease or Injury?

A positive link between marijuana and the management of symptoms related to spinal cord injury has been known for years.  In 2014, the Spinal Cord Injury Wellness Summit spoke of how well medical marijuana works for nerve pain and muscle spasticity.  It can also enhance the effects of other anti-spasticity medications you may also be taking.  Studies throughout the years have found cannabis extract to give significant pain relief and improvement in bladder control with minor side effects.  Recent studies also show promise in cannabis potentially improving recovery after a spinal cord injury as well as easing symptoms related to the injury. 

Traumatic Brain Injury

A disruption in normal brain function caused by sudden damage from factors such as a severe bump, blow, or jolt to the head

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disruption in normal brain function caused by sudden damage from factors such as a severe bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Examples of causes are falling down stairs, a car accident, sports injury, or injury from physical violence. Wide range of physical or psychological symptoms can be seen either immediately after injury or weeks later. Symptoms can be mild to severe and may include pain, confusion, headache, fatigue, change in sleep, mood or behavior, trouble with memory, focus, thinking, slurred speech, loss of coordination, nausea or seizures.

How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with Traumatic Brain Injury?

Increased death and morbidity, or disease, can be associated with TBI.  American Surgeon in 2014 published results of a study showing a significant decrease in death and morbidity in patients sustaining TBI.  This could be due to the effects of canniboids, the compounds found in medical marijuana.  Several studies have demonstrated the ability of canniboids to protect nerve cells against further damage, degeneration, or injury.  As patients using medical marijuana have reported benefits in managing a wide array of symptoms, the same benefits can be seen in managing symptoms of TBI.  Marijuana in TBI patients has been reported to give pain relief from headaches, inflammation, decrease seizures, and fight nausea.  With the limited ability of the brain to heal from damage caused by TBI, medical marijuana can be an effective treatment option in managing a host of symptoms.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory autoimmune disease which predominantly affects the joints of the body.

The immune system is designed to protect the body from pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. However, in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), the immune system mistakes healthy cells in the synovium of the joints as a foreign pathogen, and begins attacking the normal joint tissue; hence the term “auto-immune”. The synovium of the joints is the capsule that surrounds the joint which produces synovial fluid. Synovial fluid is the lubricating
fluid found in healthy joints.

The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and diminished range of motion. RA inhibits the production of synovial fluid within the synovium of the joint causing severe inflammation. Over time, the inflammation can cause long term damage in the joints. The subsequent cartilage and bone loss leads to deformity, limited mobility, and chronic pain. Patients with RA can also experience fatigue, fever, and depression associated with severe pain and loss of mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the joints symmetrically. The most common joints affected by RA are the joints of the hands, wrists, knees, and feet; but RA is also systemic and can attack skin, lungs, and heart.

Long-Term Damage Related to Rheumatoid Arthritis
If rheumatoid arthritis is not treated early or is not well controlled, the inflammation in the joints could lead to significant and permanent damage. According to the CDC, the common complications of RA include:

• Premature Heart Disease: People with RA are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease which affects the heart or blood vessels, and includes life-threatening problems such as heart attack and stroke.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: CT syndrome is a common condition in people with rheumatoid arthritis. It is caused by compression of the median nerve that controls sensation and movement in the hands. The symptoms include aching, numbness, as well as tingling in the thumbs, fingers or part of the hand.
• Systemic Inflammation: Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition which can cause inflammation to develop in other parts of the body, such as the:
  -Lungs – inflammation of the lungs can lead to pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease
  -Heart – inflammation of the tissue around the heart can lead to pericarditis
  -Eyes – inflammation of the eyes can lead to scleritis or Sjögren’s syndrome
  -Blood vessels – inflammation of the blood vessels, known as vasculitis, is the thickening, weakening, narrowing and scarring of blood vessel walls. In serious cases, it can affect blood flow to your body’s organs and tissues and can be life threatening.
• Cervical Myelopathy: Individuals with advanced RA are at increased risk of developing involvement at the top of spine known as cervical myelopathy. This condition leads to dislocation of joints at the top of the spine, which puts pressure on the spinal cord. Although uncommon, it’s a serious condition that can greatly affect mobility and lead to permanent spinal cord damage if not treated quickly with surgery.

How Can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Medical Marijuana is a useful tool in the medical management of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Numerous studies reveal that cannabinoids may be beneficial in the management of pain and inflammation associated with RA. Marijuana produces anti-inflammatory effects by activating CB 2 cannabinoid receptors which decrease cytokine production and modulates immune cell mobilization. Marijuana may also be useful in treating the depression and anxiety frequently experienced by patients with RA.

Nausea is a feeling of being queasy which causes the sensation of wanting to vomit the contents of the stomach. The effects of nausea are exerted on the gastrointestinal system, but nausea is induced by the “vomiting center” located in the 4th ventricle of the brain, near the brain stem. The 4th ventricle of the brain contains the chemoreceptor trigger zone. Once stimulated, it creates a difficult to ignore, discomforting uneasiness in the stomach. The symptoms of nausea include weakness, sweating, a buildup of saliva in your mouth, and the urge to vomit. Nausea is always a symptom and not a disease in itself. if you feel nauseous, there is always an underlying cause. Nausea is a protective mechanism that your body uses to avoid stimuli it deems harmful, like a particular food, chemical, or situation.

The physiological causes of nausea are multi-factorial, as nausea is a common symptom of many diseases and conditions, as with many gastrointestinal disorders. Nausea may also be caused by medications, especially chemotherapy in cancer patients. 70% of women experience nausea called morning sickness during pregnancy, which usually eases during the second trimester. Cholecystitis caused by gall stones blocking the bile duct can cause nausea and projectile vomiting. Seasickness, for example, follows a very different pathway than morning sickness or food poisoning. The vestibular system in your internal ear controls nausea related to dizziness after a rollercoaster ride, while the vomiting center in your brain controls the nausea you experience due to a stomach virus, food allergy, or a noxious smell.

For the most part, chemical signals or alkaloid compounds that are released in response to a stimulus act directly on receptors located in the brain’s 4th ventricle. When these receptors are activated, nausea results. Nausea can also have a psychological cause. Anxiety and nervousness often produce nausea because they activate brain regions that are close to the vomiting center of the brain. In this case, the nausea is not caused by an external stimulus, but an internal stimulus – your state of mind.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Severe Nausea?

Marijuana has widely been utilized medicinally to treat/reduce nausea. A study titled Antiemetic Efficacy of Smoked Marijuana stated that “marijuana significantly reduced ratings of “queasiness” and slightly reduced the incidence of vomiting compared to placebo”**. Cannabinoids in the cannabis plant have also been shown to be effective against chemotherapy-induced nausea. Cannabis can have similar effects to traditionally utilized antiemetics without the some of the risks associated with prescribed nausea medications.

**Duber Medical does not endorse or recommend the smoking of cannabis for any reason as it may be hazardous to your health

Tourette’s Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder. While the exact cause is unknown t is most likely the result of genetic and environmental factors. The neurotransmitter chemicals, dopamine and serotonin play a role. The symptoms of Tourette syndrome include simple and complex “tics, both motor and vocal in nature. Simple motor tics include excessive eye blinking, head jerking, shoulder shrugging, eye darting, nose twitching, mouth movements. Simple vocal tics include grunting, coughing, throat clearing and barking. Complex motor tics include touching objects, smelling objects, walking in a certain pattern, obscene gesturing, jumping and twisting and bending. More complex tics include repeating words or phrases and using vulgar language. These tics appear involuntary and can increase in severity when individuals are stressed, excited or tired. Males are 3 times more likely than women to suffer from Tourette Syndrome.

How can Medical Marijuana Help Patients with Tourette’s Syndrome?

Medical marijuana has two primary chemical components: Delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). Medical marijuana and cannabis-based medications that include THC and cannabis extracts have been reported to reduce symptoms of Tourette Syndrome in small scientific studies, patient reports, and anecdotal case reports. They are currently used to treat adult patients in Germany, Israel and Canada. There is insufficient data to support that CBD, without the addition of THC, is an effective treatment for Tourette Syndrome. The symptoms that can be improved through the use of medical marijuana are tics, insomnia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behavior and anger.

Ulcerative Colitis

A type of irritable bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of irritable bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine. There is no exact known cause but some factors that may play a role include your own immune reacting abnormally in the intestine, genes, and environment. The main symptom is diarrhea that may contain blood or pus. Other symptoms are abdominal pain, sudden urge to have bowel movements, feeling tired, anemia, weight loss, or fever. Symptoms can come and go for life and flare ups of these symptoms can range from days to months.

How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with Ulcerative Colitis?

Little research has been done with medical marijuana and its effect on irritable bowel disease, but many patients have reported increased relief of their symptoms.  Canniboids, the compounds found in medical marijuana, have been found to suppress the inflammatory response.  Another compound found in medical marijuana called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, has also been shown to help increase appetite and reduce nausea.  A study done on Crohn’s Disease which is another type of inflammatory bowel disease, found significant improvement in after treatment with cannabis.  The need to take other medications decreased greatly.

The Arkansas Department of Health does not have dispensary information. Click here for the dispensary information.

Click here.

The following are required when submitting your application:

• The patient registry application form.
• The completed Physician Written Certification.
• Photocopy of the front of your Arkansas-issued driver’s license or state ID on a full sheet of paper.
• The nonrefundable application fees.

Your registry identification card will be valid for up to one year from the date it is issued.  Your card may be issued for less than one year if designated by your physician. 

You can renew your card up to 60 days prior to your card’s expiration date.

You need the same documents for new applications and renewals:

• The patient registry application form.
• A new Physician Written Certification.  Your previous certification cannot be used.
• Photocopy of the front of your Arkansas-issued driver’s license or state ID on a full sheet of paper.
• The nonrefundable application fees.

It may take up to 14 days to process your renewal from the date we receive your application and payment.  Incomplete applications or applications with errors will be returned and will take longer.

To apply as a visiting out-of-state patient, you must have a medical marijuana card or equivalent from another state.  In addition, the condition(s) for which you were approved in another state must also be a condition(s) approved in Arkansas.  You can submit an online application here.  The non-refundable application processing fee is $50.  Application processing time is up to 14 days after you submit your application and payment.  After your application is reviewed, you will receive an e-mail alerting you to log back in and print your card.  Visiting patient cards are issued for 90 days per application. 

Yes. The information received and records kept by the Arkansas Department Health Medical Marijuana Section are subject to all applicable federal privacy laws, are confidential, are exempt from the Freedom of Information Act and are not subject to disclosure to any individual or public or private entity, except as necessary for authorized employees of the department to perform official duties for the medical marijuana program. Law enforcement will have the ability to confirm only the validity of an ID card.

No. Using medical cannabis is prohibited in a school bus, on the grounds of any preschool or primary or secondary school, in any correctional facility, in any motor vehicle, in a private residence used at any time to provide licensed childcare or other similar social service care on the premises and in any public place where an individual could reasonably be expected to be observed by others. A public place includes all parts of buildings owned in a whole or in part, or leased, by the state or local unit of government. A public place does not include a private residence unless the private residence is used to provide licensed childcare, foster care, or other similar social service care on the premises. Using medical marijuana is also prohibited in a health care facility or any other place where smoking is prohibited by the Clean Indoor Air Act of 2006 and knowingly in close physical proximity to anyone under the age of 18.

A visiting qualifying patient may obtain marijuana from a dispensary with approval as a visiting patient.

Complete the visiting patient application here.

A visiting patient application is $50.00 (non-refundable). If approved, a visiting patient may purchase medical marijuana in Arkansas for a 90-day period, per application.

No.  Legislation passed in 2017 prohibits members of the Arkansas National Guard and the United States military from obtaining a qualified patient or designated caregiver registry ID card.

Processing time is up to 14 days from the date we receive your application and payment.  Cards are mailed through the post office the next working day after the card is issued. 

The Arkansas Department of Health does not issue temporary medical marijuana cards.  Patients who apply online can print a copy of their cards after their applications are reviewed and approved. 

The Arkansas Department of Health does not issue temporary medical marijuana cards.  Patients who apply online can print a copy of their cards after their applications are reviewed and approved. 

If the application was submitted online, you may print a replacement using your online account.  If you do not have an online account, you may call our office and request a replacement card. 

You call our office to request a change to your card. 

No. When your card expires, the legal protection offered by the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment is expired. You may still submit your renewal application.  You will not be able to purchase medical marijuana until your renewal card is issued.

A physical card will be mailed automatically to you once your application has been approved. Cards will not be sent over email. If you applied online, you could log on to the and print a copy of your card.

A petition to add a new qualifying medical condition can be submitted. Petition applications are reviewed and forwarded for a hearing.  The department shall approve or deny a petition within one hundred (120) days of submission of the petition. Click here for petition information.

An official physician written certification must be obtained from a medical physician and submitted with the application. 

The medical provider must be a Doctor of Medicine or osteopathy licensed in the state of Arkansas, have a controlled substances license on file with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), be in good standing to practice medicine in Arkansas, and have a bona fide physician-patient relationship with the patient they are certifying for medical cannabis.

The department does not recommend physicians. Patients are responsible for locating their own physician.

The department does not recommend physicians. Patients are responsible for locating their own physician.

No, a physician is not required to provide a patient with a certification.

The physician certification is valid for 30 days from the date the doctor signs the form. If a patient gets a certification and fails to submit it to the ADH within 30 days, they must get a new certification.

Yes. To be protected under the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment, your marijuana must be purchased from one of the licensed Arkansas dispensaries.

No. Qualifying registered patients and their designated caregivers cannot grow or cultivate medical marijuana. Marijuana-infused products must be purchased through the licensed Arkansas medical marijuana dispensaries

Qualified registered patients are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces from a dispensary in a 14-day period.  Each individual purchase counts against the patient’s balance for 14 days; the patient balance does not reset every 14 days.  Patients who apply online can check their real-time balance by clicking the battery icon in the top right corner of the home page after they log in. 

Please contact your insurance provider or Medicaid official for an answer.

Please contact the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission for information about licensure for cultivation. Please contact the Arkansas Beverage Control Agency for information about dispensary licensure. Questions about cultivation and dispensing requirements should be directed to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration–click here.

A designated caregiver is a person who is selected by a qualifying patient as the person authorized, on the qualifying patient’s behalf, to possess, obtain from a certified medical marijuana dispensary, dispense, and assist in the administration of medical marijuana. Caregivers must apply for a registry card. A designated caregiver is issued a medical marijuana registry identification card that allows him/her to possess up to 2.5 ounces of medical marijuana on behalf of their patient. It is not legal for caregivers to consume, by any means, medical marijuana that has been dispensed on behalf of a registered qualifying patient.  A criminal background check is required for most caregiver applicants.  Parents applying to be caregivers for their own children do not have complete a criminal background check. 

Complete the designated caregiver application here.

Yes. Qualified patients under 18 years of age cannot purchase medical marijuana from a dispensary. The legal guardian or parent is required to register as a caregiver to buy medical marijuana for a minor.

Yes.  Each caregiver must apply separately and pay the non-refundable application processing fees and complete a criminal background check if applicable. 

Yes. A caregiver may be a registered qualifying patient.