{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/capsule/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3127-markdown","title":"HelloMD Launches Telehealth Service for Medical Cannabis in New York","slug":"hellomd-launches-telehealth-service-for-medical-cannabis-in-new-york","content":"### HelloMD Launches Telehealth Service for Medical Cannabis in New York \n\n\nHelloMD, a digital health platform for non-traditional care, announced its return to the US with a flagship launch in the state of New York. For the last few years, HelloMD has operated its Telehealth business exclusively across Canada. However, since the COVID pandemic, it is clear the Telehealth is the healthcare delivery model of the future. \n\nWe are excited to announce that we have expanded our Telehealth service to the state of New York. People across the state now have unlimited access to experienced healthcare practitioners who can advise them on the use of medical cannabis. New Yorkers can now easily and efficiently use the HelloMD live video platform from the comfort of their home or office.\n\n[GET YOUR NEW YORK MEDICAL CARD](https://newyork.hellomd.com/) \n\n### Why Use Telehealth for Cannabis?\n\nAlong with California and Nevada, New York allows for qualifying Telehealth consultations between patients and doctors, for medical cannabis. Telehealth is particularly important for medical cannabis consultations because it allows for private consultations where:\n\n- Patients feel the stigma of investigating medical marijuana\n- A Primary GP or doctor doesn't feel comfortable prescribing or advising cannabis\n- People are too sick to travel to see a doctor EG: undergoing chemo\n\n### New York's Qualifying Conditions\n\nThe following are qualifying conditions for getting a medical card in the state of New York:\n\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)\n- Cancer\n- Chronic pain\n- Damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with an objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity\n- Epilepsy\n- HIV /AIDS\n- Inflammatory bowel disease\n- Huntington's disease \n- Multiple sclerosis\n- Neuropathy\n- Opioid use disorder (only if enrolled in a treatment program pursuant to article 32 of the mental hygiene law.)\n- Opioid replacement\n- Parkinson's disease\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)\n\nNew York has recently expanded the list of qualifying conditions to include (among others) chronic pain. This category is important as its broadly defined as any pain lasting longer than 12 weeks, and can include very common conditions such as migraines, back pain, fibromyalgia, sciatica, arthritis, and others (all of which cannabis has shown to be an effective treatment for.\n\n### Help Spread the Word\n\nHaving launched in New York, we need the assistance of HelloMD members to help spread the awareness of the service to friends they have in New York. If you have friends in New York you feel might benefit from the use of medical cannabis, please have them visit HelloMD and see a doctor or nurse today. The process takes about an hour to complete, and doctors are available 7-days per week.\n\n[GET YOUR NEW YORK MEDICAL CARD](https://newyork.hellomd.com/)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/ee604/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png","srcSet":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/69585/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 200w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/497c6/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 400w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/ee604/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 800w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/f3583/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/58556/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/61e93/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 200w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/1f5c5/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 400w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/58556/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 800w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/99238/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2330-markdown","title":"New York Allows More Methods of Marijuana Consumption ","slug":"new-york-allows-more-methods-of-marijuana-consumption","content":"In August, the New York Health Department announced planned changes to the state’s medical marijuana program. Under the proposed regulations, the list of approved methods of administration will broaden to include topical applications, additional oral methods, and ground plant material. People will also be allowed to visit dispensaries whether or not they’re state-certified medical cannabis patients, granting prospective patients easier access to pharmacists when seeking information about the program.\n\nTo learn more about these changes and what they mean for patients and producers, we spoke to [Jeremy Unruh, General Counsel at PharmaCannis]( https://www.hellomd.com/people/jeremyu). \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Greater Variety for NY Medical Marijuana Patients and Producers \n\nThe program’s original list of forms approved non-smokable consumption via inhalation (vaporizers) and oral methods of the medication (capsules, oils, tinctures and sprays). “At first, New York’s program was understandably restrictive,” Jeremy says, “and they limited us to five brands—each brand basically a different cannabinoid profile of product—and a list of forms.” \n\nNew regulations, likely to be adopted in September, authorize the inclusion of ointments, tablets, lozenges, patches, and certain non-smokable ground plant material among the program’s approved forms of administration. “What they’re proposing to do is open up that list of potential forms for us to develop and consider making,” explains Jeremy.\n\nJeremy believes this change not only presents greater variety for patients, but it also offers producers like [PharmaCannis](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/pharmacannis-bronx) even more ways to serve them. “Any move by the department to expand the delivery systems will invariably expand the versatility of medical cannabis for qualifying patients in New York.” \n\nRELATED: [WHY DOCTORS IN NEW YORK AREN’T RECOMMENDING](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56eb327eed004d0008000011/why-doctors-in-new-york-arent-recommending-marijuana)\n\n### Increased Innovation for Administering Cannabis\n\nProducers will be able to focus on the development of products in new delivery methods that not only offer variety, but also may be better suited for some patients and their particular circumstances. “We’re learning as our pharmaceutical knowledge increases that there’s a lot of differentiation among these seemingly similar delivery devices,” Jeremy explains. “A tablet is not a capsule, and a capsule is not a lozenge, even though from a lay perspective they can be viewed as similar delivery devices.” \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59b3235db8b3ec393021a42a/embedded_images/59b3235fb8b3ec393021a42b/Screen_Shot_2017-09-08_at_3.40.23_PM.png)\nCannabis topicals are a great option for localized pain relief.\n\nThese options may all be taken orally, but the experience of doing so varies—from whether the patient actually has to swallow the form to its activation time. These variances serve as inspiration for producers like PharmaCannis, who now have the opportunity to develop products that weren’t available previously.\n\n“It really allows us to take the expertise of our research and development team, who came to us from a traditional pharmaceutical background,” says Jeremy, “to use their professional creativity to come up with product strategies that are more in keeping with New York’s true healthcare model.” \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59b3235db8b3ec393021a42a/embedded_images/59b3235fb8b3ec393021a42c/Screen_Shot_2017-09-08_at_3.42.52_PM.png)\nCannabis lozenges appeal to many people as it is a familiar way to ingest medicine.\n\nTo illustrate this point, Jeremy mentions a product that PharmaCannis will be debuting in the coming weeks: a self-emulsifying capsule. Explains Jeremy, “What our capsule technology does is it emulsifies the cannabinoids in the stomach, allowing absorption in the intestines, which allows the cannabinoids to bypass the liver, which would be vetted out in the stomach area.”\n\nThis new type of capsule demonstrates a focus on improving the methods of administration that patients have become accustomed to, while offering a glimpse into the innovation that occurs even in a restrictive program like New York’s. “Injecting what we think is a true pharmaceutical research perspective into these forms allows us a lot wider latitude to develop the sort of products that we think New York patients want,” says Jeremy.\n\nEven the inclusion of ground flower to the list of approved forms, while not exactly innovative, provides patients with something they didn’t have before: the ability to create their own delivery method. As Jeremy points out, “For the first time, we have the opportunity to sell dried flower in New York. It can’t be sold for purposes of smoking, but it certainly can be taken home and used to make a butter or an oil for a patient to cook with. This change enhances the options that a patient has, and it increases the versatility of the product for the patient.”\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59b3235db8b3ec393021a42a/embedded_images/59b32360b8b3ec393021a42d/Screen_Shot_2017-09-08_at_3.44.56_PM.png)\nGround plant material can be used for at-home use for recipes or otherwise.\n\n### Greater Access for Medical Marijuana Patients in New York\n\nThe updated regulations also allow people to visit local dispensaries for information and education without having to be state-certified medical cannabis patients. This marks a dramatic shift from when only patients or certified cardholders could enter a dispensary—if a caregiver, accompanying family member or prospective patient didn’t have a card, they weren’t allowed in.\n\n“We’ve realized that when you create this barrier to visibility and have this heavy, dark curtain over the entire program, then you’re discouraging new patients because they don’t know what’s behind that heavy dark curtain,” Jeremy says. Statistics on the number of participants in the program seem to support his theory: As of August 22, 2017, only 28,077 medical cannabis patients have been certified in the entire state of New York.\n\n“We had an obligation under the former regulation regime to bar people who may be cancer patients or have one of the qualifying conditions,” Jeremy continues, “but they couldn’t even come in and talk to our pharmacist about whether or not medical cannabis was a viable option for them, because they weren’t allowed in a dispensary.”\n\nEqually as critical was the denial to access that the previous restrictions presented for certain types of card-carrying patients. For example, “If mom shows up [with her card], and her 21-year-old son is the one who drove her because she’s so sick she doesn’t drive anymore, unless he has a card, her son is technically not allowed in the dispensary with her even if she is in a wheelchair,” says Jeremy. \n\nThis access to dispensaries and pharmacists helps remove the mystery from medical cannabis and empowers individuals to discover more about the program for themselves and for loved ones. It also empowers the dispensaries to offer resources to anyone who walks in the door, whether they’re familiar with cannabis or learning about it for the first time. “This change enhances the ability for us to create a public access space in our dispensary,” explains Jeremy, “so that members of the general public who are interested in learning about medical cannabis, and interacting with our patient care representative or pharmacist can come in and do that.“\n\n### New NY Medical Marijuana Regulations Take Effect This Fall\n\nThe regulatory changes were published August 23 and now must undergo a 30-day notice and comment period before they’re finalized. From there, the Department of Health will need time to formally activate the program’s changes. What this means is that changes may not begin to take effect for another six weeks or so following their adoption. To learn more, visit [New York’s Department of Health website](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/).\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/14b42/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/f836f/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg 200w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/2244e/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg 400w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/14b42/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg 800w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/47498/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg 1200w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/54ac5/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/58556/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/61e93/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp 200w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/1f5c5/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp 400w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/58556/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp 800w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/99238/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp 1200w,\n/static/24eb04bf06568b99ffdb36a69603b094/5e0b8/7142760d29e9c2a3459651d2cea1d845.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2272-markdown","title":"Cannabis Capsules: Why They Might Be Right for You","slug":"cannabis-capsules-why-they-might-be-right-for-you","content":"Anyone who has purchased over-the-counter (OTC) medication has likely taken at least one capsule in their lifetime. After all, capsules dominate the OTC medicine aisles of most pharmacies. This common method of administration, which is available for patients in New York, involves the encapsulation of a dose of powdered or liquid medicine inside of a single or two-piece shell, which the patient can ingest orally or as a suppository.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nThe capsule reportedly dates back to the ancient Egyptians, making it one of the oldest forms of pharmaceutical dosing. A travel account from 1730 mentioned the first capsule available in Europe, attributed to Viennese pharmacist de Paul who produced capsules in order to cover up the foul taste of the turpentine he prescribed for patients with gout.\r\n\r\nIn 1834, the patent for the first gelatin capsule was granted to pharmacist Joseph Gérard Auguste Dublanc and pharmacy student François Achille Barnabé Mothès, sparking the adoption of capsules all over the world.  In 1931, Arthur Colton successfully designed a machine on behalf of Parke, Davis & Co. that was able to simultaneously manufacture and assemble hard-shell capsules, enabling mass production applying processes still used to this day.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/599a4c1a6dfe300c0a8bac1e/embedded_images/599a4c1c6dfe300c0a8bac1f/Screen_Shot_2017-08-20_at_10.56.35_PM.png)\r\nCannabis capsules come in different shapes, sizes and colors. \r\n\r\n### The FDA’s Only Approved Cannabinoid\r\n\r\nThe one cannabinoid that can be legally marketed in the U.S. is actually available only in capsule form. The drug Marinol was approved by the FDA in 1985 as treatment for cancer patients suffering from nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy. A synthetic form of THC, the cannabinoid primarily responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects, Marinol’s approval was a result of the National Cancer Institute’s testing and subsequent reporting of the drug’s effects on cancer patients for whom other anti-vomiting medication was ineffective.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARINOL VERSUS CANNABIS: WHICH IS MORE EFFECTIVE?]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marinol-versus-cannabis-which-is-more-effective)\r\n\r\nMarinol has since remained on the market as a viable treatment for nausea, vomiting and cachexia (weight loss) in patients suffering from cancer or AIDS. However, its use of synthetic THC without any of the other therapeutic cannabinoids present in natural cannabis doesn’t provide complete holistic relief for all patients.\r\n\r\n### Who Benefits Most from Cannabis Capsules\r\n\r\nBecause capsules provide reliable and consistent dosing, they may be an ideal fit for those patients suffering from “chronic pain, cancer or HIV,” says [Nelson Cuevas](https://www.hellomd.com/people/nelsonc), general manager and head pharmacist at [PharmaCannis](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/pharmacannis-bronx). \r\n\r\nA capsule is a safe way to ingest cannabis that doesn’t involve smoking or vaping. As such, it represents a feasible choice for older patients, children and people with respiratory issues. The lack of smoke and the ability of a patient to ingest a capsule anywhere, any time makes it an even more discreet option than vaping and tinctures.\r\n\r\nAnd because capsules contain no unnecessary calories or ingredients, patients reap all of the holistic benefits of the medicine without having to be concerned about added sugar and fat commonly used in cannabis edibles. They are also a great choice for patients who are new to cannabis, have never used tinctures or vaporizers before, and simply feel more comfortable using a medication form that they’re already familiar with.\r\n\r\nPatients also appreciate the precise dosing that capsules provide. As Nelson explains, “candidates that benefit from capsules or tablets are folks who already know what their exact dosing will be, whether it’s 5 mg 3 times a day or 9.5 mg 3 times a day, and they don’t have to worry about titrating up or down.”\r\n\r\nCapsules have the ability to deliver exactly what the patient needs every single time, offering consistent treatment without the need to adjust based on trial and error. “The patient knows exactly what works for them,” Nelson adds, “that’s what they take, and they don’t have to worry about titrating up or down.”\r\n\r\n### The Drawbacks of Cannabis Capsules\r\n\r\nThe slower onset of a capsule’s effects may present challenges for patients needing immediate relief for their symptoms. Because a capsule is swallowed, it takes longer for the body to absorb the medicine. “It’s similar to the tincture [in terms of activation]—it takes a little bit longer to dissolve,” says Nelson. “That is called the ‘rate-limiting step’, which is the absorption of a capsule.”\r\n\r\nPatients considering capsules will want to plan their administration accordingly since this isn’t a fast-acting solution. “Liquefying that capsule is what changes the absorption, so it’s not like they’ll be waiting for hours, but it will take15 minutes more than a tincture would,” adds Nelson.\r\n\r\nWhile exact, consistent dosing is very appealing to some, patients who appreciate the flexible dosing that tinctures and vaping provide might find capsules aren’t right for them. This is because they’re more difficult to titrate due to the slower onset of the medication. Additionally, while cannabis capsules can help with nausea and weight loss, patients seeking relief for these symptoms may have trouble swallowing and keeping down foods and liquids, potentially making this form of ingestion a poor choice for those trying to manage such ailments.\r\n\r\nThat said, the ability to layer multiple forms of cannabis medication to suit your individual needs doesn’t disappear with capsules: Patients can safely use a vape to quickly address their symptoms, while they wait for the effects of a capsule to kick in.\r\n\r\n[PharmaCannis](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/pharmacannis-bronx) offers the following high-THC capsules:\r\n>* 5 mg capsules\r\n>* 9.5 mg capsules (similar to the 20:1 THC to CBD tincture, which has 9.5 mg of THC to less than 0.5 mg of CBD)\r\n\r\nCapsules are a reliable and consistent form of administration that’s ideal for patients seeking medical marijuana that can be taken discreetly, doesn’t introduce harmful smoke or unnecessary ingredients into the body, and takes the guesswork out of dosing. As with all forms of cannabis administration, you should research your options and inform your healthcare provider if you believe capsules are the best option for your particular circumstances.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/14b42/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/f836f/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg 200w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/2244e/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg 400w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/14b42/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg 800w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/47498/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/54ac5/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/58556/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/61e93/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp 200w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/1f5c5/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp 400w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/58556/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp 800w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/99238/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp 1200w,\n/static/7600254e88d23905aad7a7bca83de3b6/5e0b8/fd832d022af76186c204ed361ddafced.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2342-markdown","title":"5 Ways (Other than Smoking Flower) to Consume Marijuana","slug":"5-ways-other-than-smoking-flower-to-consume-marijuana","content":"For many people, smoking flower is the first and only thing that comes to mind when they think about consuming cannabis, but the reality is there are many ways to take your medicine these days.  Between topicals, tinctures, oils, and edibles, you can choose a method that works best for you and your specific condition.  \n\nRead on to learn about five alternative ways to take your cannabis medicine.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Topicals & Transdermals \n\n ![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/596d1b982c7b4b3e1c2e81fc/embedded_images/596d1b9b2c7b4b3e1c2e81fd/Screen_Shot_2017-07-17_at_12.48.51_PM.png) \nSweet ReLeaf is a popular topical available in California\n\nTopical cannabis products include cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils that are applied externally to the skin, muscles, and joints.  Applying a topical directly to the affected area on the body can treat localized inflammation, sore muscles, joint pain, and tension, offering immediate relief that can last up to four hours.  There is no psychoactive high with a topical because the cannabinoids only reach the CB2 receptors in the skin and do not actually enter the bloodstream.  An exception to this rule are transdermal patches, which slowly release cannabinoids into the bloodstream when placed on a veiny area of the body.  \n\nTopicals are a great way to introduce people to the therapeutic effects of cannabis without any consciousness-altering side effects.  Patients suffering from arthritis, menstrual cramps, headaches, and many more ailments can use topicals for relief but people experiencing more intense pain may find that topicals aren’t strong enough and will want to ingest the cannabis internally for stronger effects. \n\nTransdermals are products that transport helpful plant materials through the dermis, or skin layer, directly into the bloodstream. From there, systems inside our bodies move the plant materials directly where they need to go. When a wearer puts on a transdermal patch, the compounds in each patch enter the bloodstream directly, versus through the digestive tract or kidneys.\n \nTransdermal patches provide the highest bioavailability of plant material delivered into the wearer, when compared to other delivery options like inhaling or ingesting. Patches offer a discreet, consistent, time-released option for systematic relief. They are a great way for everyone (from elite athletes to healthy active seniors) to enjoy plant-based wellness, on the go!\n\nPopular California products include Flower Power Deep Muscle Rub and Sweet ReLeaf’s Deeply Soothing Body Butter.\n\nIf looking for a transdermal patch available nationally, try the [Siva]CBD patch(https://www.hellomd.com/biz/siva/about).\n\n### Tinctures & Sublingual Sprays\n\n ![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/596d1b982c7b4b3e1c2e81fc/embedded_images/596d1b9c2c7b4b3e1c2e81fe/Screen_Shot_2017-07-17_at_12.55.14_PM.png)\nMoxie Meds offers two different tincture formulations - photo @moxiemeds \n\nCannabis tinctures were one of the most common forms of medical cannabis sold before the prohibition.  Tinctures are typically oil-based cannabis extracts, basically cannabis-infused oil, and they are another great smokeless way to introduce people to cannabis because they are so easy to dose. Placing a few drops (or a dropper full) of tincture under the tongue delivers effects quickly, within as little as fifteen minutes, as the cannabinoids are absorbed sublingually into the bloodstream.  \n\nSome tinctures are sold as sublingual sprays that can be sprayed into the mouth for the same results.  It is also possible to ingest a tincture by using it to infuse food or drinks, but absorbing through the digestive system will take closer to an hour or two to deliver any effect.  Many cannabis companies are introducing innovations to tinctures by adding beneficial terpenes and creating CBD-dominant options. While tinctures may not seem like the most fun option for consuming cannabis, they are easy to use, practical, and effective.  A necessity in any modern medicine cabinet.  \n\nPopular California examples include Moxie Meds High CBD Tinctures and Pianta Tinta.\n\nIn New York, [PharmaCannis offers a variety of popular tinctures in various ratios](https://www.hellomd.com/brands/5ade6948531eba0006265736/pharmacannis).\n\n### Capsules & Pills\n\n ![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/596d1b982c7b4b3e1c2e81fc/embedded_images/596d1b9e2c7b4b3e1c2e81ff/Screen_Shot_2017-07-17_at_12.56.42_PM.png) \nCare by Design has a popular capsule line - photo @carebydesign\n\nMany people are less familiar with cannabis in capsule form, though we will surely see more of it since it is one of the only forms of medicinal cannabis allowed on the East Coast.  Cannabis capsules are essentially gelatin capsules that contain a precisely dosed amount of cannabis oil.  This form of ingestion is appealing to those who have avoided the stigma of ingesting cannabis because it looks more like a traditional medicine.  \n\nThe precise dosing and lack of smoke also make capsules a top choice used to treat children with epilepsy or people with serious illnesses that cannot smoke or even vape.  It can take one to two hours to feel the effects since the cannabinoids are absorbed by the digestive system, but relief will last four to six hours, making capsules an effective option for chronic pain and nausea.  \n\nPopular California products include a variety of varying ratios offered by [Care By Design]( https://www.hellomd.com/biz/care-by-design).\n\n### Edibles\n\n ![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/596d1b982c7b4b3e1c2e81fc/embedded_images/596d1ba02c7b4b3e1c2e8200/Screen_Shot_2017-07-17_at_12.58.19_PM.png) \nGarden Society offers microdosed edibles  - photo @grdnsociety\n\nEdibles refer to cannabis-infused foods - foods cooked with concentrated cannabis oil or butter.   When consumed mindfully and responsibly, edibles deliver a potent body-high, offering relief from chronic pain or nausea.  Cannabis beginners be warned - approach edibles with caution because the dosing can be hard to control and inexperienced people often consume more than they should, which can lead to unwanted anxiety.  Doses will vary depending on the strength of the concentrate and recipe used, so you want to start with a small amount, wait two hours to see how you feel, and go from there.  \n\nThe most common mistake people make is not waiting long enough to feel the effects before ingesting more.  Once they kick in, effects can last between four to six hours.  Lots of people love the giggly body high they get from edibles, and some describe a stronger psychedelic experience than the high reached from smoking, vaping, or tinctures.   More and more low-dose edibles are hitting the market, along with healthier vegan and gluten-free options, CBD treats, and even infused tea!   Look for clearly labeled doses on the packaging so you know what you’re getting yourself into (generally five to ten milligrams is considered one dose).  \n\nPopular products California include: [Kikoko PositiviTea]( https://www.hellomd.com/marijuana-undefined/positivi-tea) and Garden Society Bliss Blossoms\n\n### Vape Pen & Oil Cartridges\n\n ![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/596d1b982c7b4b3e1c2e81fc/embedded_images/596d1ba12c7b4b3e1c2e8201/Screen_Shot_2017-07-17_at_1.02.13_PM.png) \nHmbldt offers a vape experience that is accurately dosed - photo @hmbldt\n\nVape pens have become very popular because of their ease of use and approachability.  Similar to an e-cigarette, vape pens are portable devices which vaporize cannabis oil, allowing you to inhale cannabis vapor without the harmful byproducts of smoking.  Vaping delivers immediate relief that will last between one and three hours.  Great for discreet relief on-the-go and easy to use for beginners, but vape pens are still not ideal for patients who need to keep their lungs clear.  The key to quality here is in choosing the right the vape cartridge, as they are not all created equal and you run the risk of inhaling nasty byproducts.  The amount of options available can be dizzying - be sure to check the labels and choose a cartridge that contains a clean, solvent-free cannabis oil.  \n\nPopular California products include:  Hmbldt Relief Pen and Alchemy by Dark Heart Awaken.\n\nIn New York, PharmaCannis offers a variety of vape pen oil cartridges with varying ratios of THC to CBD.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/14b42/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/f836f/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg 200w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/2244e/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg 400w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/14b42/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg 800w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/47498/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/54ac5/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/58556/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/61e93/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp 200w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/1f5c5/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp 400w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/58556/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp 800w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/99238/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp 1200w,\n/static/b2ccde199072cc405f69a4f0c0e14383/5e0b8/4a62fc6b5bca71f90164987fc4b2d6ab.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5074,"name":"Capsule","slug":"capsule","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}