Medical marijuana spills from a prescription bottle onto a doctor's prescription pad

New Patient Information

To be eligible to use medical marijuana in the state of Florida, you must have an established relationship with a qualified physician for 3 months, before the physician can order medical cannabis to treat your condition.

Dr. Torres, with Novus Spine & Pain Center in Lakeland, Florida, is qualified by the state of Florida to order medical marijuana for patients.

Treatment for medical marijuana is not covered by insurance.

Initial visits are $250, and follow up visits are $125.

Living with chronic pain can drastically impact your quality of life. When traditional treatments fail to provide relief, many individuals seek alternative options. Medical marijuana has emerged as a promising therapy for a variety of pain conditions, offering potential relief when other approaches have fallen short.

This guide explores the different forms of medical marijuana, their potential benefits for pain management, and important considerations for those exploring this therapeutic avenue. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, neuropathic pain, or cancer-related pain, understanding the potential of medical marijuana can empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.

In This Article:

Key Takeaways

  • Medical Marijuana Shows Promise For Pain Relief: Research suggests medical marijuana can be effective in managing various types of pain, including chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer-related pain.
  • Multiple Forms Are Available: Medical marijuana can be consumed through inhalation, oral ingestion, topical application, and sublingual administration, each with varying effects and durations.
  • Cannabinoids Interact with The Body’s Endocannabinoid System: THC and CBD, the primary cannabinoids in marijuana, interact with the ECS (endocannabinoid system) to modulate pain perception, inflammation, and other physiological processes.
  • Individualized Treatment is Key: Choosing the correct form, strain, and dosage of medical marijuana depends on individual factors such as the type and severity of pain, tolerance, and lifestyle.
  • Consult a Qualified Medical Professional: It’s crucial to seek guidance from a physician experienced in medical marijuana to determine if it’s an appropriate treatment option for you and to develop a personalized plan.
  • Understand the Legal Landscape: Medical marijuana laws vary significantly by location. Ensure you are aware of and comply with your area’s specific laws and regulations.
  • Potential Risks And Side Effects Exist: Like any medication, medical marijuana can cause side effects and carries the potential for dependence and addiction. Discuss these risks with your pain management doctor.
  • Responsible Use Is Essential: Start with a low dose, monitor your response, and avoid exceeding recommended dosages. Seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

What is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is a type of cannabis, a plant that contains chemicals called cannabinoids. The two main cannabinoids in marijuana are:

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. It is responsible for the “high” that people experience. THC also has pain-relieving properties.
  • Cannabidiol (CBD): The non-psychoactive cannabinoid that does not produce a high. CBD has a variety of health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety relief, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Medical marijuana is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including:

  • Chronic pain
  • Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy
  • Muscle spasms
  • Seizures
  • Appetite loss

Medical marijuana is available in a variety of forms, including:

  • Smoked marijuana
  • Vaped marijuana
  • Tinctures
  • Edibles
  • Topicals

Medical marijuana laws vary significantly from state to state. Although medical marijuana is legal in Florida, it may be illegal in other states. It’s a constantly evolving landscape, and being aware of the current laws is essential.

Risks of Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana is generally safe for most people. However, there are some potential risks associated with its use, including:

  • Short-Term Effects: These include impaired memory, coordination, and judgment.
  • Long-Term Effects: These include respiratory problems, addiction, and mental health problems.

It is important to talk to your pain management specialist about the risks and benefits of medical marijuana before using it.

How Does Medical Marijuana Help with Pain?

Medical marijuana can help ease pain in several ways. The cannabinoids in marijuana interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in regulating pain perception.

The ECS is a complex network of receptors throughout the body, including the brain, spinal cord, and immune system. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, bind to these receptors, which can help to reduce pain signals.

How Medical Marijuana Can Help with Pain

There are several ways that medical marijuana can help with pain:

  • Reduces Inflammation: Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s healing process. However, chronic inflammation can lead to pain. Cannabinoids can help to reduce inflammation, which can help relieve pain.
  • Blocks Pain Signals: Cannabinoids can block pain signals from being sent to the brain. This can help to reduce pain perception.
  • Relaxes Muscles: Cannabinoids can help to relax muscles, which can help to relieve pain caused by muscle tension.

Medical Marijuana for Specific Pain Conditions

Medical marijuana can be effective for treating a variety of pain conditions, including:

  • Chronic Pain: Any pain that lasts for a long time. A variety of conditions, such as arthritis, back pain, and fibromyalgia, can cause chronic pain.
  • Neuropathic Pain: This is pain that is caused by damage to the nerves. Neuropathic pain can be burning, stabbing, or shooting.
  • Cancer Pain: The pain caused by the cancer or cancer treatments.

Forms of Medical Marijuana for Pain Relief

Medical marijuana is available in a variety of forms, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The best form of medical marijuana for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Inhalation

Inhalation is a very common way to consume medical marijuana. There are two main methods of inhalation:

  • Smoking marijuana involves inhaling the smoke from a joint or pipe. This method is relatively inexpensive and easy to do, but it can also harm the lungs.
  • Vaping marijuana involves inhaling the vapor from a vaporizer.

Advantages of Inhalation:

  • Quick Onset of Effects: Inhalation delivers marijuana to the bloodstream quickly, which can provide immediate pain relief.
  • Easy to Control Dosage: With inhalation, you can control the amount of marijuana you consume by taking smaller or larger puffs.

Disadvantages of Inhalation:

  • Potential for Lung Damage: Smoking marijuana can damage the lungs, similar to smoking tobacco. Research has found in addition to irritating the airways, vaping marijuana may worsen respiratory issues in some users.
  • Short Duration of Effects: The effects of inhaled marijuana typically last for only a few hours.

Oral Consumption

Oral consumption involves eating or drinking marijuana. There are a variety of different products available for oral consumption, including:

  • Edibles: Food products that contain marijuana, such as brownies, cookies, and gummies.
  • Tinctures: Liquid extracts of marijuana that are taken orally. Tinctures can be added to food or drinks, swallowed directly, or applied topically.
  • Capsules: Capsules contain powdered marijuana.

Advantages of Oral Consumption:

  • Long-lasting: The effects of oral marijuana can last for several hours, making it a good option for long-term pain relief.
  • Easy to Dose: Edibles and capsules are easy to dose, as the amount of marijuana is pre-measured.

Disadvantages of Oral Consumption:

  • Delayed Onset: It can take up to two hours for the effects of oral marijuana to be felt.
  • Unpredictable Effects: Oral marijuana’s effects can vary depending on several factors, such as the amount of marijuana consumed, the individual’s metabolism, and the edible.

Topical Application

Topical application involves applying marijuana directly to the skin. There are many different topical products available, including:

  • Creams containing marijuana can be applied directly to the painful area.
  • Lotions infused with marijuana can be applied directly to the painful area.
  • Balms that contain marijuana can be applied directly to the painful area.

Advantages of Topical Application:

  • Targeted Pain Relief: Topical marijuana can provide relief to the specific area where it is applied.
  • No Psychoactive Effects: Topical marijuana does not produce a high.

Disadvantages of Topical Application:

  • May Not Be Effective for Deep Pain: Topical marijuana may not be effective for pain that is deep within the body.

Choosing the Right Form of Medical Marijuana

The best form of medical marijuana for you will depend on many factors, including your individual needs and preferences. Talking to your pain specialist about the risks and benefits of each form before using it is essential.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a form of medical marijuana:

  • Pain Severity: If you have severe pain, you may need a form of medical marijuana that delivers a high dose of THC.
  • Tolerance to THC: If you are new to using medical marijuana, you may want to start with a low dose of THC.
  • Lifestyle: If you are active, you may want to avoid forms of medical marijuana that may cause drowsiness.
  • Preferences: Some people prefer to smoke or vape marijuana, while others prefer to eat or drink it.

It may be necessary to experiment with different forms of medical marijuana to find the one that works best for you.

Medical Marijuana for Specific Pain Conditions

Medical marijuana can be effective in treating a variety of pain conditions, including chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is pain that lasts for a long time. A variety of conditions, such as arthritis, back pain, and fibromyalgia, can cause it. Medical marijuana can help to relieve chronic pain by:

  • Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s healing process. However, chronic inflammation can lead to pain. Cannabinoids can help to reduce inflammation, which can help to relieve pain.
  • Blocking Pain Signals: Cannabinoids can block pain signals from being sent to the brain. This can help to reduce pain perception.
  • Relaxing Muscles: Cannabinoids can help to relax muscles, which can help to relieve pain caused by muscle tension.

A study published in the Journal of Pain Management found that medical marijuana was effective in reducing pain in patients with chronic low back pain.

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is pain that is caused by damage to the nerves. Neuropathic pain can be burning, stabbing, or shooting. Medical marijuana can help to relieve neuropathic pain by:

  • Interacting with the Endocannabinoid System: The endocannabinoid system is involved in regulating pain perception. Cannabinoids can interact with the endocannabinoid system to help to reduce pain signals.
  • Blocking Pain Signals: Cannabinoids can block pain signals from being sent to the brain. This can help to reduce pain perception.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that medical marijuana was effective in reducing pain in patients with cancer-related neuropathic pain.

Cancer Pain

Cancer pain can be caused by the cancer itself or by the cancer treatments. Medical marijuana can help to relieve cancer pain by:

  • Reducing Inflammation: Cancer treatments can cause inflammation, which can lead to pain. Cannabinoids can help to reduce inflammation, which can help to relieve pain.
  • Blocking Pain Signals: Cancer treatments can damage nerves and cause pain. Cannabinoids can block pain signals from being sent to the brain. This can help to reduce pain perception.
  • Improving Appetite: Cancer treatments can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to weight loss. Cannabinoids can help to improve appetite, which can help to maintain weight.

A study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that medical marijuana was effective in reducing pain in patients with advanced cancer.

Choosing the Right Form of Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana is available in a variety of forms, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The best form of medical marijuana for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Types of Medical Marijuana

There are four main types of medical marijuana:

  • Inhaled: One of the most common forms of medical marijuana is inhaled marijuana. It is available in a variety of forms, including smoked marijuana and vaped marijuana. Inhaled marijuana delivers marijuana to the bloodstream quickly, which can provide immediate pain relief. However, it can also be harmful to the lungs.
  • Oral: There are a variety of forms of orally consumed marijuana, including edibles, tinctures, and capsules. Oral marijuana takes longer to work than inhaled marijuana, but it can provide longer-lasting relief.
  • Topical: The application of marijuana is directly to the skin. It can be used to relieve pain in a specific area. Topical marijuana does not produce a high.
  • Sublingual: Placing marijuana under the tongue is the sublingual application. The marijuana is absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth. Sublingual marijuana works quickly, but the effects do not last as long as oral marijuana.

How to Choose the Right Form of Medical Marijuana

Here are some tips to help start using medical marijuana for chronic pain:

  • Talk to Your Pain Doctor: Your pain doctor can help you determine the best form of medical marijuana for your individual needs.
  • Start with a Low Dose: If you are new to marijuana, it is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase the dose as needed.
  • Experiment with Different Forms: There are many different forms of medical marijuana available. It may be necessary to experiment with different forms to find the one that works best for you.
  • Be Patient: It can take some time to find the right form of medical marijuana and the correct dosage.

FAQs

Yes, medical marijuana is legal in Florida. It was legalized in 2016 through a constitutional amendment (Amendment 2) with overwhelming voter support. This amendment allows qualified patients with debilitating medical conditions to access and use medical marijuana for treatment.

However, it’s important to note that Florida’s medical marijuana program has specific regulations and requirements. Patients must meet certain criteria and obtain a medical marijuana card from a qualified physician to participate.

You can find more information about Florida’s medical marijuana program on the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use website.

How do I get a medical marijuana card in Florida?

Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Florida requires a few key steps. First, you must be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition by a qualified physician. These conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), and chronic nonmalignant pain. The physician must be registered with the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU).

Once you have a qualifying diagnosis, your physician will enter you into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry. You must then complete an application with the Florida Department of Health and pay the associated fees.

After application approval, you will receive your Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card, allowing you to purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries in Florida. It’s important to remember that your card must be renewed annually and requires a re-evaluation by your physician.

What conditions can medical marijuana treat?

While research is ongoing, medical marijuana has shown promise in treating a variety of medical conditions. It is often used to manage symptoms like chronic pain, severe nausea, muscle spasms, and seizures associated with these conditions.

Additionally, medical marijuana is increasingly being explored for its potential in managing mental health conditions like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as for its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with certain treatment side effects, such as the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy.

What are the side effects of medical marijuana?

Like any medication, medical marijuana can cause side effects. Some common short-term side effects include impaired coordination, dizziness, dry mouth, increased appetite, slowed reaction time, and red eyes. The psychoactive component of marijuana, THC, can also cause altered perception, mood changes, and, in some cases, anxiety or paranoia. These effects are generally temporary and subside as the marijuana is metabolized.

Long-term use of medical marijuana, particularly with high THC content, may carry additional risks. These can include potential impacts on memory, learning, and cognitive function, especially in adolescents. Respiratory problems similar to those associated with tobacco use may also occur with frequent inhalation of marijuana smoke.

How does medical marijuana interact with other medications?

Medical marijuana can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Like many substances, marijuana is metabolized by the liver using enzymes in the cytochrome P450 system. Some medications can inhibit or induce these enzymes, affecting how quickly marijuana is broken down and potentially leading to increased or decreased effects.

Therefore, it’s crucial to inform your physician about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, before starting medical marijuana. This allows your doctor to assess potential interactions, adjust dosages if necessary, and monitor for any adverse effects. Medications with known interactions with marijuana include certain antidepressants, anticoagulants, anti-anxiety medications, and immunosuppressants.

Can I overdose on medical marijuana?

While a fatal overdose from marijuana is extremely rare, it is possible to experience unpleasant and potentially harmful effects from consuming too much, especially with high-THC products. Overconsumption can lead to intense anxiety, paranoia, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, and, in some cases, psychosis or hallucinations. These effects are generally temporary and subside as the marijuana is metabolized.

If you are new to medical marijuana, it’s crucial to start with a low dose and gradually increase it under the guidance of your physician. Pay close attention to how your body reacts and avoid consuming more than the recommended dosage. If you experience any concerning symptoms after consuming medical marijuana, seek medical attention immediately.

Is medical marijuana addictive?

While medical marijuana offers therapeutic benefits for many patients, it’s important to acknowledge the potential for dependence and addiction. Marijuana can lead to cannabis use disorder in some individuals, like other substances that affect the brain’s reward system. The disorder is characterized by continued use despite negative consequences, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty controlling use.

The risk of addiction varies depending on several factors, including individual predisposition, age of initiation, frequency of use, and THC potency. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable due to their developing brains. It’s essential to use medical marijuana responsibly and as directed by your physician. If you experience symptoms of dependence or withdrawal, such as irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or decreased appetite when not using marijuana, seek professional help.

How do I choose the right strain of medical marijuana?

Choosing the right strain of medical marijuana can significantly impact your treatment outcomes. With numerous strains available, each with varying levels of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and desired effects. Generally, strains with higher THC content are preferred for managing conditions like chronic pain, nausea, and appetite loss. In comparison, strains with higher CBD content are often chosen for anxiety, inflammation, and seizures.

However, the effects of different strains can also vary based on individual factors. Consulting with a knowledgeable pain management physician or a qualified medical marijuana dispensary staff can provide valuable guidance. They can consider your medical history, symptoms, and desired outcomes to recommend strains that align with your needs. It’s often helpful to start with a low dose of a recommended strain and gradually adjust based on your response and tolerance.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of medical marijuana for pain management can feel overwhelming, but with reliable information and guidance, it can become a potential pathway toward improving your quality of life. Remember that individual responses to medical marijuana can vary, and it’s crucial to consult with a qualified pain medicine physician to determine if using medical marijuana aligns with your specific health needs.

As research continues to explore the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana, it’s essential to stay informed and prioritize responsible use. By understanding the legal landscape, potential risks, and benefits, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Novus Spine & Pain Center

Novus Spine & Pain Center is in Lakeland, Florida, and treats patients with chronic pain with numerous therapies, including medical marijuana, when appropriate. By using a comprehensive approach and cutting-edge therapies, we work together with patients to restore function and regain an active lifestyle while minimizing the need for opiates.
For your convenience, you may schedule an appointment online, request a call back, or call our office at 863-583-4445.

Additional Resources

The role of the endocannabinoid system in pain (PubMed)
Marijuana as Medicine (National Institute on Drug Abuse)
Medical marijuana (Mayo Clinic)
Researchers Show Chemical Found Naturally in Cannabis May Reduce Anxiety-Inducing Effects of THC (Johns Hopkins)
6 Health Benefits of CBD Oil — and a Look at Side Effects (Healthline)
Medical Cannabis Alleviates Chronic Neuropathic Pain Effectively and Sustainably without Severe Adverse Effect: A Retrospective Study on 99 Cases (Karger)
Cannabis and Teens (CDC)
Legality of cannabis (Wikipedia)
The Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) (Florida Health)

Updated: January 30, 2025