5 Things to Know Before Self-Medicating with Cannabis

The increasing legalization and normalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use will inevitably lead to a rise in individuals self-medicating with weed. Medical marijuana's health benefits are widely acknowledged across the medical community but—as with any course of treatment—should be monitored closely by a doctor.

While some individuals may find relief through self-medication, it's important to consider the implications and wisdom of any type of self-medication. Medical cannabis is considered legal and legitimate healthcare in 38 states and, as such, should be administered by licensed healthcare professionals.

1. Many Patients Don't Know the Alternatives to Self-Medication

Despite a growing number of states across the U.S. legalizing cannabis consumption, both recreational and medical cannabis use is still shrouded in doubt. The same appears to be true across the border. A study into self-medication with MMJ in Canada revealed that more than half (52.85%) of self-medicating individuals don't consult doctors because of the lack of information on access to MMJ.

The other top reasons cited were to do with the perceived inconvenience of the process. Patients mentioned the perceived complexity of the process, difficulty in accessing an MMJ doctor, and the inconvenience of follow-up appointments as other top reasons to choose self-medication over an MMJ doctor.

2. A Range of Factors Influence the Efficacy of MMJ

Self-medicators may feel they can get a good sense of the strains or consumption methods that are most effective for their symptoms or condition. While this may be true for some, it's important to recognize that not all cannabis is the same and some products may be a lot more effective for certain conditions than others.

A trip to your local dispensary can be an eye-opening experience for beginners. The array of different strains, products, and paraphernalia can be overwhelming and lead to a feeling of being unsure about where to start.

The biggest question is often which strains are best suited to your condition. Different strains contain different ratios of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids that work together to create marijuana's unique blend of therapeutic and psychoactive effects. The terpene profile in each strain is also significant for its medicinal efficacy, as terpenes have their own unique therapeutic effects and contribute to weed's perceived synergistic effects.

Each strain is truly a world in itself. Many factors make one strain a more suitable choice than another for a specific condition, and getting the right medicine is more complex than simply selecting a product at random from a shelf. Many patients consult MMJ doctors to ensure they're using the best possible product for their circumstances.

Treating Chronic Pain vs Anxiety

Many patients cite pain relief or anxiety disorders as reasons for consuming MMJ. Anxiety isn't a qualifying condition in Arizona, but could be experienced alongside or as a consequence of qualifying conditions like PTSD or Alzheimer's disease.

Patients suffering from these two conditions would likely benefit from different strains. The best weed strains for pain with moderate-to-high THC levels may be better for pain sufferers, while high-CBD strains could be better for anxiety.

3. Self-Medicating Lacks Consistency

Getting your medical marijuana from a licensed medical marijuana dispensary ensures the consistency of the products you consume. You will receive legitimate, lab-tested medical marijuana products if you purchase them from a specialized MMJ dispensary with a valid MMJ card, whereas the same can’t be said for marijuana purchased on the street. 

Purchasing your products in a medical dispensary means:

• You will get the right strain.

• Any products you purchase will match the levels of THC or CBD recommended by your doctor.

• Your products will be safe and high-quality.

Self-medicating will invariably mean using unregulated products from multiple sources. This means your treatment will lack the proper consistency to be totally effective because one batch may be effective but the next less so.

4. THC Levels in Cannabis Are Higher than in the Past

Patients who had experience with cannabis when they were younger should be aware that the product has changed considerably in the last few decades. You may find that a small amount of your preferred cannabis product has a much greater effect than you remember. This is because marijuana is much stronger than it used to be. In fact, between 1995 and 2015, there was a 212% increase in THC content in marijuana flower. 

Innovations in the cannabis industry also mean dispensaries stock a huge range of extremely high-THC products. Cannabis concentrates like Rick Simpson Oil can contain up to 75% THC.

People struggling with their mental health or who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be at greater risk of developing substance use disorders such as cannabis use disorder when they regularly self-medicate with high-THC cannabis products. An MMJ doctor provides the necessary supervision to optimize the dosage and risk/benefit profile of cannabis consumption. 

Whether you choose to self-medicate or get professional guidance from an MMJ doctor, always start with low doses to avoid the unpleasant effects of overconsumption and reduce the risk of substance abuse.

Optimize Your Dosage With Professional Supervision

There may be some merit in listening to your body and the cues it gives you, especially when self-medicating to alleviate physical pain. However, this can lead to unmindful and inconsistent consumption.

In some cases, this may mean you're taking too little and aren't getting the full benefits of your product. In other cases, you may take too much. This can lead to unexpected side effects or developing tolerance too quickly. The key is striking the right balance and finding the optimal dose for the greatest relief.

Turning to a medical marijuana doctor is the best way to find the right dose for your condition and lifestyle. Your doctor will also help you change your dosage as necessary over time safely and efficiently.

5. An MMJ Card Offers a Range of Benefits

There are many benefits of owning a medical marijuana card that solve the main pain points associated with self-medicating. Among the top benefits are:

• More affordable MMJ: MMJ patients in Arizona sidestep excise tax, making your cannabis more cost-effective.

• Higher possession limits: MMJ patients in Arizona can purchase, possess, and transport up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana. Non-cardholders have a limit of one ounce.

• Access to more potent products: There is no limit to the THC level in weed products sold to medical patients in Arizona.

• Home cultivation: Patients in Arizona who live more than 25 miles from their nearest dispensary can grow up to 12 plants at home for personal use. The limit for recreational cultivation is six plants.

Seek Professional Guidance from Expert MMJ Doctors

While self-medicating with cannabis may seem like a convenient option, seeking guidance from a qualified medical professional offers several advantages. A doctor will provide a proper diagnosis, determine the appropriate dosage, and monitor for any potential side effects.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to self-medicate or seek medical guidance is up to you. However, working with an MMJ doctor is generally safer, more effective, and gives you access to more affordable cannabis if you qualify for an MMJ card.