Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, refers to the use of the cannabis plant and its derivatives to treat various health conditions. It focuses on therapeutic rather than recreational applications, leveraging cannabinoids like Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) for their proven medical benefits.

Therapeutic Applications

Medical cannabis is increasingly recognized as a versatile and impactful treatment option for a wide range of health conditions. Its therapeutic potential extends across physical, neurological, and even psychological disorders, offering patients relief where conventional treatments may fall short.

Chronic Pain Management

Medical cannabis has demonstrated significant potential in managing chronic pain, a common issue affecting millions worldwide. It offers an alternative to traditional painkillers, particularly for conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Cannabis-based medications can help reduce muscle spasticity and associated pain in patients with MS, which can severely limit mobility and daily activities. These treatments have shown promise in improving not only physical symptoms but also overall quality of life, helping patients regain independence and comfort.

Cancer and HIV/AIDS Symptom Relief

Medical cannabis alleviates symptoms such as nausea, appetite loss, and weight reduction associated with cancer treatments and HIV/AIDS, providing patients with much-needed relief.

Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

Cannabis-derived medications have shown remarkable effectiveness in managing severe forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, reducing seizure frequency and improving patient outcomes.

Neurological and Neurodegenerative Disorders

Emerging research suggests that medical cannabis may offer therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's, although these areas require further investigation. Its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties are of particular interest to researchers.

Mental Health and Sleep Disorders

While the use of medical cannabis for mental health conditions is still under review, early findings suggest potential benefits for anxiety, PTSD, and sleep disorders when used responsibly under medical supervision. For individuals struggling with chronic insomnia, medical cannabis may help regulate sleep cycles and improve overall rest quality.

Regulatory Status in Portugal and the UK

Portugal

Portugal has embraced medical cannabis through a regulated framework, allowing patients with a prescription to access cannabis-based treatments. The country has a robust medical cannabis program that supports patient care while adhering to strict safety and quality standards. Patients can use platforms like pH7 to connect with qualified doctors specializing in medical cannabis.

United Kingdom

In the UK, medical cannabis was legalized in 2018 for specific conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. However, access remains limited, often requiring specialist approval. With platforms like pH7 expanding to the UK, patients will soon have easier access to expert consultations and legitimate prescriptions.

Safety and Efficacy

Medical cannabis is considered a safe and effective treatment when used under professional guidance. The diversity in strains and consumption methods allows for tailored treatments, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate care. Commonly used methods include:

• Inhalation: Provides quick relief for acute symptoms.
• Oral Consumption: Edibles and capsules offer longer-lasting effects.
• Topical Applications: Creams and oils are ideal for localized pain and inflammation.

The Role of pH7

As a leading app for booking consultations with medical cannabis specialists, pH7 simplifies access to expert healthcare in Portugal and soon in the UK. The platform connects patients with licensed doctors who provide personalized treatment plans and digital prescriptions, ensuring safe and effective use of medical cannabis.

Conclusion

Medical cannabis offers substantial therapeutic potential for chronic and debilitating conditions, with an expanding body of research supporting its benefits. In countries like Portugal and the UK, regulated frameworks and platforms like pH7 are making medical cannabis more accessible, empowering patients to explore its benefits safely and confidently.

FAQs

What are the main uses of medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis is commonly used for chronic pain relief, reducing muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis, and alleviating nausea and weight loss associated with cancer and HIV/AIDS treatments.

Is medical cannabis legal in Portugal and the UK?

Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Portugal under a regulated framework and in the UK for specific conditions with specialist approval. The pH7 Patients app helps streamline access to these treatments.

Can medical cannabis cause side effects?

When used as prescribed, side effects are minimal. Always consult a qualified doctor for personalized advice.

How is medical cannabis administered?

Medical cannabis can be administered via inhalation, oral consumption (edibles or capsules), or topical applications (creams and oils).

How does pH7 help patients?

pH7 connects patients with licensed medical cannabis doctors, providing consultations, digital prescriptions, and guidance on safe and effective usage.

Bibliography

• Sarris, J., Sinclair, J., Karamacoska, D., Davidson, M., & Firth, J. (2020). Medicinal cannabis for psychiatric disorders: a clinically-focused systematic review. BMC Psychiatry.
• Schlag, A., O’Sullivan, S., Zafar, R., & Nutt, D. (2021). Current controversies in medical cannabis: Recent developments in human clinical applications and potential therapeutics. Neuropharmacology.

Disclaimer

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis for medicinal purposes. For personalized medical guidance, consult a licensed healthcare provider through the pH7 Patients app. pH7 is a technology platform connecting patients with doctors specializing in medical cannabis, providing legitimate medical consultations and access to digital prescriptions.

‍