It falls on the consumer/patient to be aware of the potential effects, mode of administration and dosing of Cannabis to achieve their desired effects. Like the purchase of over the counter medications and holistic remedies, most patients will utilize Cannabis with limited medical professional oversight.
A budtender within a dispensary is traditionally not a medical professional. Their role is to assist patients in selecting products offered by that dispensary and to advise on how to administer the cannabis medication chosen. Many states do not have requirements regarding budtender training so the experience for a patient could vary from dispensary to dispensary. The more knowledge a patient has, as a consumer of Cannabis, the higher the likelihood they will have a good experience and achieve their desired results.
There is still a lot to learn about the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and cannabis-based cannabinoids. Researchers continue to find more cannabinoids and other plant constituents that contribute to the medicinal properties of this plant. The role of ECS within the body is balance. By properly stimulating the receptors within this system we can better support it’s preventative and protective mechanisms.
The cannabinoid receptors are much like a lock and key and there are large numbers of them throughout the body. The two most common receptors are CB1 and CB2 and having a basic understanding of what happens when these receptors are stimulated can be helpful.
As a patient, if your ailments are more neurological/mental/emotional than there is likely a CB1 receptor deficiency. Sativa dominant cannabis strains have a higher propensity to stimulate CB1 receptors, although they can benefit CB2 receptors as well. Sativa strains typically have a higher THC to lower CBD ratio and are generally more stimulating, energizing and uplifting.
If you are immune-compromised or experience chronic inflammation it is likely there is a CB2 deficiency. Indica dominant cannabis strains have a higher propensity to stimulate CB2 receptors although they can benefit CB1 receptors also. Indica strains typically have a lower THC to higher CBD ratio and are generally more sedating and relaxing. Because of the sedation/relaxing effect of an Indica-dominant strain, it is known to be better for anxiety and insomnia.
As a patient, it is also important to be aware that cannabis can slow down the metabolism of other prescription medications because both THC and CBD are metabolized by the liver enzyme Cytochrome P450. Cytochrome P450 is important in the metabolism of many medications and when this enzyme is altered prescription medications can remain in your system longer and at higher levels. It is important to consult your physician when using cannabis and other prescription medications and to listen to your body for any undesirable side effects.
The overall side effects of cannabis are typically mild and safe. Achieving the desired results with cannabis is largely dependent on the makeup of your body and everyone is different. For this reason, consuming cannabis at lower doses to achieve your desired results is the ideal approach. The best method is to start by taking a small measured amount and then incrementally increase the dosage by the same amount until relief is experienced. This is your subjective therapeutic window and evidence has shown that utilizing cannabis in excess of this window can lead to most adverse effects.
Your physician may have a preferred method for taking your medicine and the method of cannabis consumption determines how quickly you will feel the effects. Here are the basics to be aware:
- Smoking or vaporizing is a more immediate effect – within minutes. It’s key to start low with a couple of inhalations and then wait ten minutes to see how you feel before inhaling more. Once effects are felt you are within your therapeutic window and more isn’t necessary.
- Ingestion of an edible/tincture/oil on an empty stomach can take forty-five minutes to over an hour. Consumption on a full stomach can take up to two hours to feel the effects. It’s important to wait for the allotted time before ingesting another dose.
Cannabis is a beneficial medication for many but there is still a need for additional research on the impacts of the plant on various medications and diagnoses. It’s important to be aware of what other medications you are taking, to learn about any potential interactions with cannabis and to make all physicians that are prescribing your medications aware that you have added cannabis to your treatment regimen.
This article was written by Darcey Trescone, RN
Darcey Trescone, RN, BSN is a Healthcare Consultant in the Post-Acute Healthcare Market with a strong background working with both providers and vendors specific to Home Care and Hospice. She has worked as a home health nurse and held senior operational, product management and business development positions with various post-acute software firms. To learn more visit www.TresconeConsulting.com. She can also be reached at darcey@tresconeconsulting.com.
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