For years, Canadians have associated cannabis with other drugs that could lead to negative outcomes. This perspective influenced stigmatization among cannabis users and gave birth to many myths and misunderstandings concerning the use and effects of cannabis. If you have just started treatment with cannabis or know someone who is considering the use of medical cannabis, it’s crucial to educate yourself on the real effects of cannabis and to base your decision on facts—not myths.
We want to help debunk 3 of the major myths regarding the use of medical cannabis.
- All medical cannabis will inevitably get you “high”
FALSE.
The use of medical cannabis is intended to relieve the pain that contemporary medicine fails to do. It’s a therapeutic alternative to ease the mind and body of the patients, and the result of a main ingredient called CBD. CBD mutes any psychoactive effects and is primarily responsible for reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain. It also brings the body back to a natural balance.
- You have to smoke medical cannabis
FALSE.
There are novel therapeutic formulations to make more than one way to use medical cannabis available for patients. In fact, most cannabis patients prefer not to smoke so they rely on vapors, cannabis oils, capsules or edibles. There are multiple delivery methods for patients, and it’s up to them and their doctor to decide which one works for their situation as each has their own set of benefits.
- The use of medical cannabis leads to more drug use
FALSE.
Studies have proven that medicinal cannabis has been used in treatment for addiction and recovery, through harm reduction programs. Medical cannabis can be prescribed to patients with medical conditions who generally require traditional pain medication as an alternative to relieve pain, consume a lower dosage of other pain meds and potentially decrease the chances of dangerous drug addiction. Unfortunately, the bad reputation that stems from a lack of evidence and misinformation has created a stigma around what can be a safe, pain-free experience for patients.
Are you a medical cannabis patient or advocate who has a story you can share to help spread a positive message for those deserving better treatment options? Share your story anonymously here.
