{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/research/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2849-markdown","title":"How Does Cannabis Affect Over-the-Counter Medications?","slug":"how-does-cannabis-affect-over-the-counter-medications","content":"Cannabis can be an effective treatment for many health conditions, or simply a way to relax after a long day. But [marijuana can interact with more than 600 different medications](https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/cannabis.html). This includes not only prescription drugs but also common over-the-counter (OTC) preparations. \n\nIf you’re taking cannabis along with nonprescription drugs for pain, sleep, indigestion or coughs and colds, [cannabis could affect how a key set of liver enzymes processes these medications](https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Medical%20Cannabis%20Adverse%20Effects%20and%20Drug%20Interactions_0.pdf). This affects bioavailability. In other words, how available these medications are to your body to use. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How Cannabis & OTC Meds Interact Depends on Many Factors\n\nThe interactions between cannabis and common prescription medications like [opioid pain relievers](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59f0d5d6453ba8000f3478d6/cannabis-an-exit-drug-for-the-opioid-epidemic) and [benzodiazepines for mood disorders](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aa1a02ff24d1300077ccb80/cannabis-a-better-alternative-to-benzodiazepines) have been studied fairly extensively. But much less research has been done on how—or whether—cannabis can affect how the body responds to widely used OTC medications that anyone can buy without a doctor’s prescription. \n\nComplicating the connection between OTC medications and marijuana are the many variables involved in consuming cannabis along with these kinds of preparations. Many different factors can play a role in how the body responds, such as:\n\n* The way a person consumes cannabis\n* How much marijuana someone takes \n* The kind of cannabis they ingest\n* The types of medication they’re taking\n* Whether they’re also using other medications at the same time \n\nBut because the liver metabolizes and makes all of these substances bioavailable, researchers are able to study how cannabis either inhibits or enhances the way certain liver enzymes process common OTC medications. \n\n### OTC Drugs Are Medications, Too\n\nAlthough they aren’t dispensed by a doctor—and may not be as potent as their prescription counterparts are—OTC preparations are still medications that can potentially cause a wide range of reactions. These medications fall into several broad classes, which can include many different kinds of preparations. \n\nFor example, OTC pain relievers include both acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) and the old standby, aspirin. \n\nAnd cough and cold remedies can include medications like pseudoephedrine and dextramethorphan to treat conditions as diverse as nasal congestion, coughing and fever. \n\nThe liver breaks down, or metabolizes, all of these medications. They’re made usable to the body by a [suite of liver enzymes called cytochrome P450](https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabis-pharmacology/cbd-drug-interactions-role-cytochrome-p450). According to HelloMD’s Dr. Richard Kim, the CP450 family of enzymes is the body’s most important system for metabolizing drugs. It accounts for between 70–80% of the enzymes involved in breaking down drugs of all kinds. This includes not only prescription and nonprescription medications, but also things like nutritional supplements, herbal preparations— and marijuana.\n\nThe cannabis compounds tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) compete with many other drugs for receptors on enzymes in the CP450 family. When this happens, marijuana can either increase or decrease the activity of an enzyme to alter the effects of a particular drug.  \n\nHere’s a rundown of what’s known about the ways in which cannabis compounds can affect the liver’s ability to metabolize common OTC medications.\n\nRELATED: [HOW DO SSRIs & OTHER DRUG TYPES INTERACT WITH CANNABIS?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b288ad4bf4c4d000a0e74b8/how-do-ssris-and-other-drug-types-interact-with-cannabis)\n\n### Cannabis Intensifies the Effects of OTC Pain Relievers \n\nCannabis, especially strains and products that are high in CBD, have been shown to be effective pain relievers. And when taken in conjunction with common OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, [research suggests that cannabis can increase their effectiveness](https://www.pharmacistanswers.com/questions/do-aspirin-or-zyrtec-interact-with-cbd-cannabidiol).  \n\nFor example, the enzyme CYP2C9 metabolizes both ibuprofen and marijuana, and cannabis appears to inhibit the activity of the enzyme. This makes it less effective in breaking down ibuprofen, and the result is that more ibuprofen is released into the bloodstream for a more intense effect.\n\n### Cough & Cold Medications Are Varied, But Seem Generally Safe Alongside Cannabis\n\nOTC medications for coughs, colds and flu like Sudafed and Nyquil contain a variety of active ingredients depending on the symptoms they target. But most contain substances like:\n\n* Pseudoephedrine to relieve nasal congestion\n* Dextromethorphan to suppress coughs\n* Guaifenesin to clear mucus\n\nLittle research has been done on the interactions between these drugs and cannabis compounds, but no major effects have been reported. \n\n### Heartburn Medications Generally Don’t Interact With Marijuana\n\nPrilosec and similar medications for heartburn and indigestion are designed to affect the production of acids in the stomach. Although liver enzymes also metabolize these medications, and they can have their own side effects and risks, medication databases don’t list any interactions with cannabis.\n\n### Sleep Aids Can Boost Cannabis’s Sedative Effects\n\nOTC sleep aids can include a variety of different substances to target different symptoms:\n\n* Dedicated sleep preparations like Unisom \n* Nighttime cold medicines such as Nyquil \n* Antihistamines such as the allergy medication Benadryl, which makes you sleepy because it reduces the production of histamines in the body\n\nThese medications have different ingredients and different ways of working in the body, but they all have sedating effects. Because marijuana can also have relaxing, calming effects, it can also boost the sedative action of these medications, so that they may work faster with a stronger sedative effect.\n\nInteractions between cannabis and OTC medications have been studied considerably less than interactions between cannabis and well-known prescription drugs like opioid painkillers and benzodiazepines. But research on the CP450 suite of liver enzymes that metabolize drugs of all kinds suggests that cannabis could either enhance or inhibit the way your body responds to your go-to OTC medications. \n\nPhoto credit: [Josué Goge](https://www.flickr.com/people/jgoge123/)\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/5b8882d88dd0720008373fcf/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-to-about-marijuana) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/14b42/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/f836f/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 200w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/2244e/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 400w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/14b42/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 800w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/47498/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/0e329/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/ef7f8/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.jpg 3560w","srcWebp":"/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/58556/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/61e93/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 200w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/1f5c5/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 400w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/58556/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 800w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/99238/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 1200w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/7c22d/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 1600w,\n/static/4d3e4b0b67743f882f6767a225aeed4c/97ed0/c652f0d84c10beab1b4c9a7aba60bf1c.webp 3560w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2805-markdown","title":"Beyond the CB1 & CB2 Cannabis Receptors: TRPV1 & GPR55 ","slug":"beyond-the-cb1-and-cb2-cannabis-receptors-trpv1-and-gpr55","content":"If you’re familiar with cannabis science, you know about CB1 and CB2, the receptors located throughout the body that are triggered by cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). It’s via these receptors that THC and CBD are able to bring about some of the therapeutic effects that cannabis is known for. \n\nWhile CB1 and CB2 get the most attention—likely because we know the most about them—there are other receptors in the body that also respond to cannabinoids, like TRPV1 and GPR55. These receptors are influenced by THC and CBD, as well as [anandamide](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a949d06f24d1300077ccb66/eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), endocannabinoids made by our bodies. \n\nWe’re beginning to gain a better understanding of TRPV1 and GPR55. Both hold much therapeutic promise, and CBD may be one of the ways to unlock this potential.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### The TRPV1 Receptor Controls Our Pain Response \n\nTRPV1, also called vanilloid receptor 1 or the capsaicin receptor, helps control our body temperature and plays a role in how we feel pain. This receptor can be activated via physical and chemical cues, including:\n\n* Temperatures above 109 degrees F\n* Capsaicin, the molecule responsible for the spicy sensation of chili peppers\n* Acidic conditions in the body\n* Anandamide\n* CBD\n\nIndeed, TRPV1 is one of the few receptors we know of that CBD directly influences; CBD doesn’t really bind to CB1 or CB2. CBD’s affinity for the TRPV1 receptor may be one of the ways it brings about therapeutic effects in the body, and some studies are beginning to shed light on this. \n\nA 2004 study on rats found that [CBD acts in a similar way to capsaicin]( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1575333/#bib2). When we eat a chili pepper, capsaicin acts on the TRPV1 receptors in our brain cells, making us feel that burning sensation we associate with spicy foods. \n\nThese brain cells then become desensitized—they no longer signal that burning sensation to our brain when capsaicin acts on TRPV1. This is perhaps why some people have a higher tolerance for spicy foods: Their TRPV1 receptors have become desensitized. \n\nBut capsaicin does more than make our mouth burn when we eat spicy foods. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-seizure properties. \n\nThe researchers in this study think that CBD behaves in a similar way to capsaicin—except without imparting that spicy sensation. Somehow CBD desensitizes TRPV1 receptors, thus reducing our pain response. And we already know that CBD has pain-relieving effects and can help those with epilepsy—as much anecdotal evidence suggests. \n\n### Researchers Focusing on TRPV1 in Epilepsy & Endometrial Cancer Studies\n\nIndeed, TRPV1 likely has something to do with CBD’s anti-seizure abilities. Rodents with epilepsy and some human epilepsy patients tend to have more TRPV1 receptors than their healthy counterparts. It’s possible that the body makes more of these receptors in response to the condition.\n\nKnowing this, researchers decided to test the effect of CBD on mice with and without TRPV1 receptors. They subjected the mice to electric currents high enough to produce seizures and found that [mice without the TRPV1 receptors were more susceptible to seizures](http://n.neurology.org/content/90/15_Supplement/S53.004). The results suggest that CBD was acting on TRPV1 to reduce seizures, since those without TRPV1 receptors were more likely to get them after being subjected to electrical currents.\n\nMost recently, research has suggested that substances that attach to [TRPV1 may be useful in treating endometrial cancer](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29441458), though this evidence is preliminary. In a petri dish, researchers exposed susceptible cells to high levels of estrogen to make them cancerous. They then monitored what happened in the presence of THC and CBD.\n\nThe researchers found that CBD, but not THC, caused these cancerous cells to die. They believe that CBD was doing this by acting on the TRPV1 receptor. While these results are promising, much more research is needed. \n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS HELP DEFEND AGAINST ENDOMETRIAL CANCER?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5adfa21c049b4f000a64e8d5/can-cannabis-help-defend-against-endometrial-cancer)\n\n### GPR55 Plays a Role in the Development of Cancer \n\nGPR55 is what’s known as a G-protein coupled receptor—the same type of receptor as CB1 and CB2. GPR55 is a likely contributor to many of cannabis’s health benefits, though we still don’t have the whole picture. \n\nThis receptor can be activated by both anandamide and 2-AG, as well as THC. Because GPR55 seems to interact with many cannabinoids, some researchers think that it could be the much-speculated-about third cannabinoid receptor, or CB3, but this hasn’t been confirmed yet. \n\nInterestingly, CBD doesn’t activate this receptor. Rather, it prevents other substances from attaching to it. Researchers think that this special quality may be one of the reasons behind CBD’s therapeutic effects, and they think it could have applications in many conditions including cancer, gastrointestinal inflammation and certain seizures. \n\nResearch links [GPR55 activation with tumor activity]( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28029647). Thus, something that prevents substances from binding to this receptor, like CBD, could have an anti-tumor effect, though the molecule’s capacity to do this hasn’t been tested yet. \n\nSo far, researchers have tested the ability of substances that block GPR55 in the following cancers: \n\n* Brain\n* Breast\n* Colorectal\n* Pancreatic \n\nThe results have been positive, though it’s important to remember that these studies were preliminary.\n\n### How GPR55 Impacts Inflammatory Bowel Disease & Dravet Syndrome \n\nWe know that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. Yet we don’t know why it tends to provide relief for folks who suffer from inflammation of the colon and intestines, commonly known as inflammatory bowel disease. Here, GPR55 may again be part of the answer.\n\nPeople with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis tend to have more GPR55 receptors in their bodies than their healthy counterparts do. And studies on mice where molecules block GPR55 lead to [a reduction in intestinal inflammation]( https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/nmo.12639). We’ll have to wait and see whether or not CBD has similar effects in future studies. \n\nThough it’s likely that TRPV1 has something to do with CBD’s anti-seizure properties, GPR55 may be doing something as well. In order to better understand why patients with Dravet syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy, tend to respond favorably to CBD, researchers tested the effect of CBD in a mouse model of this condition.\n\nThey found that [CBD reduced seizure activity by binding to GPR55 receptors]( http://www.pnas.org/content/114/42/11229) in the hippocampus, a part of the brain that seems to play an important role in seizure activity. \n\nThe anti-seizure activities that can be credited to both GPR55 and TRPV1 highlight how many different factors must come together to produce cannabis’s therapeutic effects. CB1, CB2, TRPV1 and GPR55 are just some of the receptors in the body that THC and CBD interact with—there are many more that researchers are just beginning to understand. \n\nCannabinoid science is a field of study that’s still in its infancy. As research progresses, it’ll paint a clearer picture of the endocannabinoid system and how cannabis can be used to its full medical potential. \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/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/14b42/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/f836f/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg 200w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/2244e/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg 400w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/14b42/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg 800w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/47498/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/19e6b/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.jpg 1469w","srcWebp":"/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/58556/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/61e93/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp 200w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/1f5c5/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp 400w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/58556/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp 800w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/99238/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp 1200w,\n/static/8fb12afbb21296eeb48bdf453942b83a/a7d4f/f9596d6d523e2f3497565079ae40bc21.webp 1469w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2700-markdown","title":"The International Community Leads the Way on Cannabis Research ","slug":"the-international-community-leads-the-way-on-cannabis-research","content":"Despite the wave of [marijuana legalization slowly spreading across the United States](http://www.businessinsider.com/legal-marijuana-states-2018-1), federal prohibition still prevents substantive medical research. Until cannabis is federally legal, two things will continue to happen: Scientists based in the U.S. won’t have access to clean, regulated cannabis on which to perform any studies. And the regulatory agencies who support and validate medical research in the States can’t recognize cannabis as a medical option. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nWhile self-experimentation has become a cultural rite of passage for marijuana, it’s a problematic situation for serious medical patients. More and more Americans are finding relief from a range of medical conditions with cannabis.\n\nBut patients with debilitating and life-threatening diseases along with their doctors desperately want to see substantive research. This means peer-reviewed clinical studies, not just small sample, self-reported data or anecdotal stories.\n\nIn the absence of FDA-backed studies, many other countries have taken up the mantle, particularly Israel, Canada, Australia, Greece and Spain. Researchers in these countries are helping to progress the scientific understanding of cannabis as medicine for the international community. \n\nRELATED: [BALTIMORE RAVENS PLAYER DONATES TO MARIJUANA RESEARCH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/573e2b607a1e17000800009b/baltimore-ravens-player-donates-to-marijuana-research)\n\n### Countries Leading Medical Research on Cannabis: Israel, Canada & Australia\n\n #### Marijuana Research Started in Israel\n\nIsrael is considered by many to be the world leader in cannabis research. Knowledge of the plant is rooted in the nation’s cultural history, where it’s been reputedly used for thousands of years. \n\nIn 1964, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam isolated the first cannabinoid, which we know well today as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Twenty years later, Dr. Mechoulam was the first researcher to identify the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a crucial development in understanding how cannabis interacts with the brain and the body. \n\nOften referred to as the father of marijuana research, Dr. Mechoulam is a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to Israel from Bulgaria. He undertook several of his key studies on marijuana while working as a researcher at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot.\n\nWhile there, Dr. Mechoulam procured hashish from Israel’s Ministry of Health to use in his studies. Continuing his career at Hebrew University, where less stringent bureaucratic regulations allowed research to flourish, Dr. Mechoulam has led the world in marijuana research for over 50 years. \n\nIn 2015, filmmaker Zach Klein partnered with the Spanish research foundation, Fundación CANNA, to make [_The Scientist_](http://mechoulamthescientist.com/making-of/), a documentary about Dr. Mechoulam’s life work. In describing the making of _The Scientist_ on their website, the filmmakers write, “Mechoulam has been investigating this compound [cannabis] longer and more thoughtfully than any other scientist. He has unearthed cannabis’s role in treating seizure disorders, schizophrenia and PTSD.” \n\nDr. Mechoulam’s early and important research helped set a precedent for Israel’s progressive regulatory climate for medicinal marijuana research. While recreational marijuana is still illegal in Israel, it was one of the first countries to legalize medicinal-use cannabis in the early 1990s. \n\nToday, 27% of Israelis are marijuana consumers—the highest ratio of users in the world. And registered patients use government-sanctioned cannabis to treat PTSD, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, cancer and chronic pain. \n\n_Tikun Olam_ is a Hebrew phrase that translates to “repair the world.” It’s also the name of an Israeli cannabis brand established as a nonprofit in 2005. Today, Tikun Olam is a global leader in research and development and has developed 230 different cannabis strains to treat specific symptoms and diseases. Claiming to be the only scientifically backed cannabis brand in the United States, [the company’s U.S. website](http://tikunolamusa.com/research/) is a useful resource for published studies on consuming cannabis for a number of chronic diseases.  \n\n #### Canada’s Doctors Agree That Marijuana Research Is Lacking\n\nAfter federally legalizing medical marijuana in 2001, Canada is [widely expected to legalize recreational use marijuana](https://globalnews.ca/news/4102503/government-plans-to-legalize-pot-are-on-track-for-end-of-summer/) some time this year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau campaigned on the promise of cannabis legalization, and despite recent setbacks from conservative factions of the Canadian government, investors and businesses are gearing up for a robust new industry. \n\nAccording to a study published in the _Canadian Family Physician Journal_ in February, a group of Canadian doctors found that research on medicinal cannabis is profoundly lacking. In the article, _Canadian Family Physician Journal_ editors write, “[Although cannabinoids have been promoted for an array of medical conditions, the evidence base is challenged](http://www.cfp.ca/content/64/2/111) by bias and a lack of high-level research. Two large evidence synopses suggested that only three conditions have an adequate volume of evidence to inform prescribing recommendations: chronic pain, nausea and vomiting, and spasticity.” \n\nIn the same issue, an editorial piece titled, “The Cannabis Paradox” by Roger Ladouceur, argues that the rising prevalence of cannabis consumption in Canada—with an estimated 3.4 million consumers—calls for further research to be conducted. Meanwhile, Health Canada data report that [Canadians registering for medical marijuana have tripled every year since 2015](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a7ddbcaf24d1300077ccb3e/why-are-medical-marijuana-patient-registrations-on-the-rise). \n\nIn a positive step, earlier this year the Canadian government [pledged $1.4 million towards research into the health and societal impacts of marijuana legalization](https://globalnews.ca/news/3984777/marijuana-research-projects-federal-funding/). At least the government acknowledges the importance of sound scientific data when it comes to cannabis and how it impacts its citizens. \n\n#### Australia’s New to the Industry, But Sees the Importance of Cannabis Research\n\nIn 2017, the Australian government announced that it would award the [Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence](https://www.australiancannabinoidresearch.com.au) (ACRE) a 2.5 million dollar grant to coordinate research on medical cannabis. The first federally funded research institution on medical cannabis in Australia, ACRE has brought together a team of over 20 leading researchers in the fields of pharmacology, clinical psychology, plant science, public health and economics to lead the center. \n\nIn a story published by Australia’s ABC News, ACRE’s head doctor, [Professor Nadia Solowij, explains the need for research in a nation where cannabis use is surging](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-12/medicinal-cannabis-research-centre/9043274)—but without regulatory process or medical supervision. In addition to fears over misuse, medical patients who benefit from cannabis have faced prohibitively high costs; many are forced to use the black market for affordable options.\n\nDespite only having legalized medical marijuana in 2016, Australia’s top officials hope to make the medical cannabis industry a robust sector of the nation’s economy. In January, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull stated that Australia would be the world’s leading supplier of the drug. Yet, as reported by _The New York Times_ in February, [only 350 Australians have been approved to use cannabis legally](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-12/medicinal-cannabis-research-centre/9043274). \n\n[Lindsay Carter](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/11/world/australia/medical-marijuana-cannabis-lindsay-carter.html) is a 19-year-old Australian who has suffered from epilepsy since age 14; recently, Lindsay was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Lindsay and his mother have taken four international trips to obtain the cannabis oil that Lindsay vaporizes. This is the only medication that provides relief from his severe symptoms. Within the current medical model, obtaining legal cannabis within Australia would cost the Carter family nearly $30,000 a year—if even available.\n\nAustralian officials hope that the progress of medical research will match a reduction in red tape for Australian patients who want to obtain cannabis as medicine. In the coming months and years, look to ACRE and [Medical Cannabis Research Australia](http://www.mcra.org.au/research.html) for key medical studies on the various uses of medical cannabis.\n\n### When it Comes to Legalizing Cannabis Federally, The Tide Is Finally Changing In the U.S. \n\nThere are rumblings from the U.S. government about national cannabis legalization. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Barbara Lee (D-CA13) and Ro Khanna (D-CA17) introduced companion bills into the House and Senate called the Marijuana Justice Act, which would legalize cannabis throughout the country.\n\nSenate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) also announced he would introduce his own bill that would decriminalize cannabis on the federal level. Not only would such a change have repercussions for our criminal justice system, but it would also hopefully free up the many scientists who want to study the plant but can’t because it’s federally illegal. With more solid science behind the plant’s uses, we can only predict that more people will finally be able to access its incredible healing powers. \n\nPhoto credit: [chuttersnap](https://unsplash.com/@chuttersnap)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/14b42/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/f836f/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/2244e/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 400w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/14b42/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 800w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/47498/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/0e329/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/df038/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 3670w","srcWebp":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/58556/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/61e93/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/1f5c5/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 400w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/58556/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 800w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/99238/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 1200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/7c22d/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 1600w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/9122a/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 3670w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2584-markdown","title":"Are Indica & Sativa a Thing of the Past? ","slug":"are-indica-and-sativa-a-thing-of-the-past","content":"Indica, sativa, hybrid—when it comes to describing cannabis, are these terms outdated? It seems so, according to geneticist Mowgli Holmes, who gave a talk called The Genetics of Cannabis Breeds at the University of California Berkeley Botanical Garden. His company [Phylos Bioscience](http://www.phylosbioscience.com/) is pursuing the lofty goal of mapping cannabis’s genetic history by sequencing the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) of every marijuana strain they can get their hands on. \n\n“If you go into a dispensary today, people will tell you, you can buy an indica or sativa or a hybrid, but that's actually not a real thing. If there were ever discrete varieties like that, they're gone now—they've just been bred out of existence,” he says. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Landrace Strains 101 \n\nIf referring to cannabis strains as indica, sativa and hybrid is incorrect, how did we get to where we are now, using them in our daily cannabis lexicon? To answer this question, we have to look back at cannabis’s evolutionary history. \n\nScientists like Mowgli believe cannabis was domesticated in Central Asia around 8,000 BC. From there, humans brought the plants with them in their migrations across the globe. \n\nIn each area where humans settled down and cultivated cannabis, they selectively bred plants for their specific needs such as oil, fiber and yes—even psychoactivity. According to Mowgli, the selective breeding of plants can be thought of as arranged marriages. “People pick things they like and put them together,” he says. \n\nOver time, as humans married desirable plant to desirable plant in their respective region, their cannabis crops developed distinct physical characteristics, and today are known as landrace varieties. \n\nThese varieties are the ancestors to all modern strains on dispensary shelves today. You may have even heard of some of them. For example, Thai landraces have characteristics that we normally associate with sativas—the plants grow tall and lean with narrow leaves and are considered energizing in effect. Landraces from Afghanistan have traits that we tend to think of as indica—they’re small, bushy, broad-leafed and sedating. \n\nIn the mid-1700s, naturalists Carl Linnaeus and Jean-Baptiste Lamark incorrectly dubbed these landrace varieties as two separate species: _Cannabis sativa_ and _Cannabis indica_, respectively, based off of their morphological characteristics. Though we now know that all cannabis is one species, _Cannabis sativa_, this way of thinking about cannabis has been around for decades. \n\nIf you’re referring to landrace varieties as indica and sativa in the context of their physical traits, you’d be somewhat correct. But to use these terms when purchasing modern strains—especially when you’re looking for a particular effect—doesn’t make a lot of sense, says Mowgli.\n\nThe problem, he says, is that some dispensaries and breeders will base their indica-sativa-hybrid product labels off of looks alone. And from what his work in cannabis DNA analysis has shown him, that logic has no basis. \n\n“You can have a tall plant with broad leaves that's sedating, or you can have a short plant that's energetic and has broad leaves. You can have all these different combinations, but there's no reason why any of these traits would go together,” says Mowgli. \n\nHe adds that if growers and shop owners were to base their labels on observed effects based on a large sample of people, or via a thorough chemical analysis, then the indica-sativa labeling would be a “good shorthand for what's going to put you to sleep or make you want to clean the house.” However, he noted that it’s not clear and consistent how people are classifying their products. \n\n### Deciphering the Cannabis Family Tree\n\nEvery plant is made up of cells, and in these cells is DNA, genetic material that acts as a code for how a plant is going to mature. “[DNA] is kind of a barcode—an identity measure. Every organism has a unique sequence of DNA,” says Mowgli. \n\nMowgli’s work at Phylos centers around looking at the DNA of thousands of cannabis samples to tell a story about the plant’s evolutionary history—and in the long run, help people figure out what exactly it is they’re consuming. \n\nTo undertake this goal, Mowgli and his team are looking at the DNA from cannabis samples sent to him from people across the world. When he initially started this project, he and his team assumed that as they sequenced this DNA, they’d find clear-cut relationships that could be traced back to landrace varieties. However, this was not the case. \n\n“We had hoped … that we would get a sort of elegant, tree-like structure that would really make it clear what everything was in some ways,” he says. “But because of all of this hybridization, it's this messy, intertwined hairball.” \n\nInstead of having a distinct family tree, Mowgli and his team ended up with the [Phylos Galaxy](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/), which can be accessed by anyone online. Expressing his data as a galaxy was the only way Mowgli could conceivably portray the diversity and relationships between all of the cannabis samples he’s sequenced. \n\nEven though the Phylos Galaxy is a tangled mess, it has valuable information that lets us see what’s happening. Each star in the galaxy represents a single sample, and each sample’s distance from another sample denotes how closely related the two are.\n\nInstead of clear-cut landrace lineages, what Mowgli and his team have are clusters that correspond to modern categories: There’s a cluster of samples centered around Skunk, a famous variety of cannabis that was initially bred in Holland in the 1970s. There are also clusters corresponding to high CBD, berry and OG Kush—another famous variety of cannabis that’s sold as a strain in dispensaries.  \n\n### Modern Cannabis Is the Product of Historical, Environmental & Genetic Factors\n\nWhy is this galaxy such a mess? As with most things involving cannabis, it’s complicated with multiple factors like history, environment and genetics at play. \n\nOne of the reasons for this outcome is what Mowgli dubs the “California convergence.” In the 1960s, people started crossing different varieties with each other, creating the strains we know today. Because of this intermingling, most of the original landrace varieties that may have existed in the 1960s and 1970s are gone.\n\nAnd those indica and sativa characteristics? They’re all mushed together and carry little meaning in today’s cannabis world.  \n\nThe environment that a plant is grown in can affect the amount of chemically active constituents—like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and terpenes—that the plant can produce. So even if you had two genetically similar plants, the amount of sunlight, water and nutrients that each plant is exposed to will make them different. This can cause growers to think that they have two different types of cannabis, when in fact their plants are genetically identical. \n\nRELATED: [HARNESSING THE POWER OF CANNABIS’S CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a81efe4f24d1300077ccb43/harnessing-the-power-of-cannabis-s-chemical-compounds)\n\nIf this wasn’t complicated enough, most cannabis seeds are genetically distinct. If you were to buy a pack of seeds, of say, Super Silver Haze and plant each seed, each plant that grows would be genetically different—regardless of what name you give it: “They’re all unique children of two different parents, just like humans are all unique,” Mowgli says.\n\nIn other plants—like corn—that humans have been developing for years, we’ve made all seeds of certain varieties identical through decades and decades of inbreeding. Such isn’t the case with cannabis. If you want cannabis plants that are genetically similar, you have to buy a clone, a cutting from a plant that will automatically be genetically identical. \n\nTogether all of these factors contribute to the chaos that’s reflected in the Phylos Galaxy. According to Mowgli, there’s pattern in the chaos—there are big clusters in the galaxy that respond to clonal varieties being passed around among farmers. These clusters have anywhere from 20–30 samples of the same plant.\n\n“That’s a strain—if you want to call it that,” he says. “But there's really no such thing as a strain—there are only clonal varieties. There are no real seed lines in cannabis, even though people kind of act like there are.”  \n\n### How Will We Talk About Cannabis in the Future? \n\nIt’s clear that cannabis is a complex plant—and to make products that are reliable in the face of this complexity will be difficult. Compound this with the diverse ways humans respond to cannabis, and you could say that by bringing cannabis to the mainstream we’ve “bit off this huge problem that we're going to be solving for a long time,” says Mowgli. \n\nMowgli uses DNA to figure out how different cannabis samples are related to each other, but this same DNA also codes for other things, like the ratio of THC to CBD plants will produce. So in order to decipher cannabis’s complexities, he wants to take these DNA sequences and map them against different chemical compositions and plants traits. This way, we’ll be able to intelligently breed plants that have the right combinations of phytocannabinoids and terpenes to suit folks’ various needs. \n\nIn the meantime, what will the cannabis industry do in terms of this indica-sativa business? Some have already caught on and no longer refer to their products in terms of strains. For example, the brand [Dosist](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/57d844ad2174ba10009ff73f/dosist) has pens that are marketed based on effects like Bliss, Relief and Arouse. As education about this issue spreads, many brands and dispensaries will hopefully rethink how they label their products.  \n\nIn the long run, there’s talk of referring to cannabis in terms of terpene content, since it seems that terpenes determine the character of the high and impart some of the therapeutic benefits we experience when consuming cannabis. Mowgli agrees—he thinks that in the future terpene profiles will be how many in the industry categorize things.\n\nHe adds that “good curated user data” that’s tied to chemical and genetic identity should also play a role. “It won’t be simple,” he says. \n\nBut if it means helping folks more easily find cannabis products that work for them, it’ll be worth it. \n\nPhoto credit: [Mark](https://www.flickr.com/people/eggrole/)\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 easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/14b42/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg","srcSet":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/f836f/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/2244e/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 400w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/14b42/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 800w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/47498/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 1200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/0e329/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 1600w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/2e9ce/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 3094w","srcWebp":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/58556/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/61e93/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/1f5c5/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 400w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/58556/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 800w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/99238/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 1200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/7c22d/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 1600w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/1f0e0/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 3094w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2449-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Switch Off Cancer? ","slug":"can-cannabis-switch-off-cancer","content":"In 1993, the 25,000-year-old mummy of a woman was discovered in Siberia. Analyses of the body revealed that this woman, dubbed the “Siberian Ice Maiden,” suffered from metastatic breast cancer. Among the [artifacts found with her body was a small bag of cannabis](http://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/did-ancient-siberian-princess-use-cannabis-cope-breast-cancer-002207). While it can’t be proven that she used cannabis to relieve her symptoms or cure her disease, the discovery points to the enduring link between marijuana and cancer—and scientists are now beginning to unravel just what that link may be.  \n\nRecent research in fields such as immunology (the study of the immune system) and epigenetics (the study of the switching mechanisms that suppress or express the coding of a given gene) is providing new insights about how cancer itself develops—and these studies reveal the complex ways in which cannabis compounds interact with the switching mechanisms of genes and cells to influence the development of tumors.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### New Approaches Look to Prevent Cancer\n\nUntil relatively recently, standard treatments for cancer focused on removing or destroying cancerous cells with a combination of surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy. Within that model, [cannabis has been shown to relieve the nausea, loss of appetite and other symptoms such as fatigue](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791148/) that are caused by those treatments.\n\nNow, though, the newest cancer research focuses on finding [new ways to deal with cancer by intervening in the processes that make it possible](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq#section/_7), rather than attacking cancerous tumors once they appear. This research reveals that cannabis may have the potential to attack cancer itself.\n\nRELATED: [KICKING CANCER AND CHEMOTHERAPY SYMPTOMS WITH \nCANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5596a4413264380006220000/kicking-cancer-and-chemotherapy-symptoms-with-cannabis)\n\n### T-Cell Checkpoints May Be Where Cancer Starts\n\nThis [cutting edge research by leaders in immunology and immunotherapy](https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/cancer-fighting-power-couple-tackles-mysteries-of-the-immune-system/2017/09/29/db52e514-810e-11e7-ab27-1a21a8e006ab_story.html?utm_term=.d3bb7b09d766#comments)\n identifies checkpoints at which T-cells, the immune system’s frontline fighters against disease, either activate to stop malignancy—or don’t. \n\nTherapies that target those checkpoints may be the most effective way to keep cancer cells from multiplying. New studies in epigenetics also explore the factors that can activate tumor suppression genes or keep defective genes, such as the breast cancer-related BRCA1 and BRAC2, in check.\n\n### The Endocannabinoid System May Hold the Key\n\nAlong with just about every other process in the body, the immune system is supported and moderated by the endocannabinoid system, an extensive network of cellular receptors that respond to cannabinoids for things like managing pain, calming anxiety and activating immune responses.  \n\nThe body creates its own cannabinoids, but cannabinoids found in cannabis, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), are so similar to the body’s own that they can affect any process that the endocannabinoid system manages. So these and potentially other compounds in the marijuana plant may be able to [suppress the development of cancerous tumors](http://scienceblog.cancerresearchuk.org/2012/07/25/cannabis-cannabinoids-and-cancer-the-evidence-so-far/).\n\n### Marijuana Compounds May Control Cancer Cells\n\nSo far, research has identified two endocannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CBD2, that can be activated by THC and CBD to trigger immune responses, cell growth and more. For those reasons, some studies indicate that these compounds may have surprisingly potent powers to act on the various checkpoints and switching mechanisms to cause the death of cancer cells and inhibit the growth and spread of tumors.  \n\nGliomas are a family of stubborn, aggressive brain tumors that can be difficult to treat because they often spread among many areas of brain tissue, rather than concentrate into a single, solid tumor. In over two decades of studies, researchers from around the world found that [THC can induce apoptosis, or cell death, in animals for certain types of glioma cells while protecting normal cells](http://norml.org/library/item/gliomascancer).\n\nIn studies examining the effects of cannabinoids on cancers as diverse as breast cancer and colorectal cancer, THC and CBD have been shown to cause cancer cell death and promote immune responses that inhibit new cancer cell growth. These cannabis compounds operate on EC receptors themselves, and on other processes that are affected by them to reduce cancer cell proliferation and cause the death of existing cancer cells. These studies were conducted on animals and on human cells in a laboratory setting. \n\n### Cancer & Cannabis: A Complex Relationship\n\nAlthough these and other studies indicate that cannabis compounds may play a powerful role in promoting immune responses that could lead to the death of cancer cells and prevent the development of new ones, the relationship of marijuana to cancer is more complex than it appears. According to some studies, [cannabis appears to promote tumor growth](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15026328), not stop it. In others, [high levels of THC may interfere with the development of blood vessels](http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4244489.stm). \n\nEfforts to come to a clear understanding of how cannabis alters cancer also depend on the kind of cannabis being studied and the nature of the study involved. While some studies use natural cannabis, others are based on FDA-sanctioned medications that contain CBD only. And some research is done on cell lines in a laboratory, while other studies are based on animal subjects or, in some cases, human trials. \n\nThese varying approaches make it difficult to determine what cannabis actually does about cancer. Regardless of these variables, though, more than two decades of research indicates that marijuana may exert a powerful influence on various points in the body’s progress toward developing cancer, and new studies are shedding light on the way those influences work. Cannabis is known to ease the symptoms of cancer treatment—but it may also be a potent weapon for stopping cancer in its tracks. As always, more research is required to study marijuana’s effect on the human population.\n\nPhoto credit: [Paige Powers](https://www.flickr.com/photos/paigggeyy/)\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.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/14b42/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/f836f/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 200w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/2244e/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 400w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/14b42/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 800w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/47498/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/0e329/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/a8fad/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.jpg 3125w","srcWebp":"/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/58556/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/61e93/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 200w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/1f5c5/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 400w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/58556/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 800w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/99238/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 1200w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/7c22d/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 1600w,\n/static/4a75b3791fed99c606bb70858bddbb84/43731/5ec1c47c41a3a6e4fe0e785b307c974e.webp 3125w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2348-markdown","title":"Sign Dr. Oz's Petition to Increase Funding for Medical Marijuana","slug":"sign-dr-ozs-petition-to-increase-funding-for-medical-marijuana","content":"The opioid crisis rages on and yet critics of cannabis continue to call it a ‘gateway drug’. Dr. Mehmet Oz, in contrast to this, recently stated on Fox News that he believes cannabis may be [the ‘exit drug’](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/dr-oz-marijuana-can-help-the-opioid-epidemic) for opioid addiction. Dr. Oz has released a petition on [Change.org](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis) asking the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the White House to quadruple its funding for cannabis research. NIH currently allots $111 million dollars for studies involving cannabis—only 0.3% of their entire spending total on research.\r\n\r\n[SIGN THE PETITION: Fund More Research for Medical Marijuana as a Solution to the Opioid Crisis](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis)\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4qbSRy-Xog` \r\n\r\n### Outdated Marijuana Beliefs\r\n\r\nAccording to Dr. Oz, “Outdated beliefs and policies have prevented our country from funding medical cannabis research but the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has reviewed other scientific research and found evidence that patients treated with cannabis or cannabinoids were more likely to experience a significant reduction in pain symptoms. Yet the government still says cannabis has no proven medical value.“\r\n\r\nThis statement mimics the results from the recent HelloMD [study](http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2017.0012) published in conjunction with the University of California, Berkeley. Results of this study which focused on chronic pain, opioids and cannabis showed that 97% of patients were able to decrease their opioid consumption when using cannabis.\r\n\r\n### Cannabis as a Viable Alternative to Opioids\r\n\r\nOpioids have their place for use in short-term acute pain, but their effectiveness in the management of chronic pain been falsely perpetuated by Big Pharma companies and physicians to patients since the late 1990s. With 91 deaths per day attributed to these addictive narcotics, more must be done to help raise the awareness that cannabis is a viable alternative to opioids. With this petition, we hope that NIH will start to take this issue more seriously and increase funding for these studies, which are desperately needed. Please join me in [signing this petition](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis) NOW.\r\n\r\n[SIGN THE PETITION: Fund More Research for Medical Marijuana as a Solution to the Opioid Crisis](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis)\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","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/14b42/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/f836f/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/2244e/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 400w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/14b42/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 800w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/47498/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/54ac5/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/58556/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/61e93/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/1f5c5/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 400w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/58556/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 800w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/99238/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 1200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/5e0b8/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2245-markdown","title":"First Marijuana and PTSD Study Struggles to Get Underway","slug":"first-marijuana-and-ptsd-study-struggles-to-get-underway","content":"It’s been an uphill battle for Arizona psychiatrist Sue Sisley who has experienced an ongoing series of obstacles that have prevented her from completing her study on how marijuana interacts with and affects military veterans with treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Her groundbreaking research trial—approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)—aims to look into the efficacy of cannabis treatment for PTSD-related symptoms that can range from irritability, severe anxiety and social isolation to night terrors, flashbacks and insomnia. It would be the first of its kind in the United States to be completed—if Sisley can get the help of the medical community in her state.\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\n### Sisley Faces Controversial Dismissal from Her Professorship \r\n\r\nSisley first came into the spotlight a few years ago when the University of Arizona College of Medicine chose not to renew her contract position as clinical assistant professor of psychiatry back in 2014. Although the college declined to offer any reason for her dismissal, she believed that her firing was a political move inspired by her connection to her cannabis and PTSD study, which she’d been working on get approved since 2009 and which drew unwanted attention to the school.\r\n\r\nAfter the controversy, Sisley was able to bounce back thanks to help from the founder and owner of the Weed Depot, a marijuana marketplace directory and social platform. Howard Baer offered her an office space to use for her telemedicine practice as well as a warehouse space where the study could be conducted, putting Sisley back on track after such a big setback. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [Recovery from Trauma: The Role of Medical Marijuana in PTSD Treatment](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/recovery-from-trauma-the-role-of-medical-marijuana-in-ptsd-treatment)\r\n\r\n### Marijuana Trial Faces Obstacles at the Phoenix VA Hospital\r\n\r\nThe randomized, blind, controlled trial is being funded by a generous grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), a nonprofit research and educational organization. That said, the trial has been plagued with obstacles, making it a struggle to recruit the 76 participants needed to complete the study. The biggest challenge has been around Phoenix Veterans Administration (VA) hospital’s failure to help with the study’s patient recruitment efforts, leaving Sisley with less than one third of the needed number of participants to complete the research. \r\n\r\nIn a [letter of appeal to David Shulkin](https://reason.com/assets/db/15040399002827.pdf), the secretary of Veterans Affairs, Sisley writes that the VA hospital’s current director told her that she “cannot support any research that does not utilize VA personnel.” Hospital regulations prevent advertising any outside research that isn’t being conducted by the VA. Also, because cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, the hospital maintains it can’t advertise the study in their facilities or inform patients who could potentially participate about the opportunity, even though the study has federal approval and medical marijuana is legal in the state.\r\n\r\n“The fact that the VA is blocking Dr. Sisley’s attempts to recruit patients for her study speaks volumes as to how serious the VA is about treating veterans with PTSD,” says Perry Solomon, M.D. and Chief Medical Officer at HelloMD. “Our veterans have found out for themselves that cannabis has helped them in their daily lives. Here is a outstanding physician who wants to use scientific methods to validate cannabis’s efficacy and she is getting no help from the agency that has been charged with protecting the health of our veterans.”\r\n\r\nWithout support from the VA hospital, there have been no new inquiries or enrollments. If Sisley can’t recruit enough participants soon, she’ll run out of time—she’s been given a deadline to recruit—and lose the grant awarded to her from the CDPHE.\r\n\r\n**Watch:** [Dr. Sue Sisley Talks about Medical Marijuana, PTSD and Scientific Freedom](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU7hVRiQHG8)\r\n\r\n### Sisley Calls on the Secretary of VA for Help with her Cannabis Study\r\n \r\nRight now, Sisley’s efforts are focused on getting the secretary of Veterans Affairs to take a series of actions that she’s outlined in her letter. One such action involves contacting the Phoenix VA hospital director to ask for approval to pass out a physician referral letter that has been approved by the Institutional Review Board to all of the hospital's medical and support staff including its social workers. Sisley’s also seeking permission to post fliers in designated areas around the hospital, targeting parts of the facility that cater specifically to veterans where the desired demographic would be able to see the information. \r\n\r\n“With 22 veterans committing suicide each day, one would think that the VA would do anything possible to help decrease this shocking number. This study is good place for them to start,” says Dr. Solomon. \r\n\r\nUnless some of her requested changes are implemented, the success of the study will rely heavily on word-of-mouth information.\r\n\r\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.  \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: cannabisreports.com\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/14b42/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/f836f/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg 200w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/2244e/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg 400w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/14b42/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg 800w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/47498/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/06b8e/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.jpg 1362w","srcWebp":"/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/58556/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/61e93/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp 200w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/1f5c5/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp 400w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/58556/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp 800w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/99238/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp 1200w,\n/static/d5844b3b3bd3d642281687336dbc1dfa/8103a/2626b98af6ac20083093aad258e6436b.webp 1362w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2364-markdown","title":"New Research Shows Cannabis Inhibits Growth of Cancerous Tumors","slug":"new-research-shows-cannabis-inhibits-growth-of-cancerous-tumors","content":"[A new study from St. George’s University of London](https://www.sgul.ac.uk/news/news-archive/cannabinoids-used-in-sequence-with-chemotherapy-are-a-more-effective-treatment-for-cancer), recently published in the International Journal of Oncology, shows that cannabinoids may be able to help bolster chemotherapy treatment by aiding in the reduction of tumor growth. The study was conducted on cancer cells in a lab and looked at the effect of different cannabinoids on tumor growth in cells. Cannabinoids, when used in association with chemotherapy, were able to help kill and reduce growth of leukemia cells. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis After Chemotherapy\n\nThe study found that when chemotherapy was administered before the cannabinoids, the cannabinoids were far more effective than when they were administered before chemotherapy. The cancer cells were more effectively limited in growth when cannabinoids were used, rather than with chemotherapy alone. Dr. Wai Liu, [the lead researcher on the study, stated](https://www.sgul.ac.uk/news/news-archive/cannabinoids-used-in-sequence-with-chemotherapy-are-a-more-effective-treatment-for-cancer), “We have shown for the first time that the order in which cannabinoids and chemotherapy are used is crucial in determining the overall effectiveness of this treatment.” The researchers also made clear that the effects of the study could not be replicated with smoked cannabis, because smoking whole plant cannabis is different than the highly concentrated extracts used in this study. \n\n\nThis study provides increasing evidence to show that cannabis may have a large potential to help fight cancerous tumor growth. Many different organizations have been conducting studies and trials, including GW Pharmaceuticals, a UK based company that has become known for producing cannabis derived prescription medications. GW recently conducted a clinical trial to see how cannabinoids would effect patients with cancer. \n\n### Cannabis Helps Limits Cancer Growth\n\nTheir [clinical trial](http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2017/02/07/gw-pharmaceuticals-develop-oncology-portfolio-cannabis-medication/) used a drug that contained both CBD and THC, in association with chemotherapy. The study showed that cannabis could help limit growth of cancer cells. The CEO of GW Pharmaceuticals, Justin Gover, stated that, “We believe that the signals of efficacy demonstrated in this study further reinforce the potential role of cannabinoids in the field of oncology.” \n\nThis new study, and the earlier one from GW Pharmaceuticals, show the potential efficacy of using cannabis to fight against cancer cell growth. There have also been other studies, particularly in rats and mice, which have shown that that cannabinoids may be able to inhibit tumor growth, particularly by blocking the development of blood vessels that aid in their growth. \n\n### Cancer Symptom Reduction With Marijuana Use\n\nCannabis is also well known for its ability to be effective at helping reduce many symptoms of cancer. Cannabis can help cancer patients with insomnia, lack of appetite, and pain. These studies begin to show the potential for cannabis to help patients control their cancer, potentially beyond just symptom control. More studies are needed to test just how beneficial cannabis could be for patients, but the prospects are very promising. The increasing evidence indicates that cannabis may become a crucial part of a holistic cancer treatment because of its ability to improve quality of life and bolster chemotherapy treatment results. \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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/14b42/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/f836f/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg 200w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/2244e/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg 400w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/14b42/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg 800w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/47498/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/54ac5/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/58556/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/61e93/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp 200w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/1f5c5/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp 400w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/58556/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp 800w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/99238/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp 1200w,\n/static/b57a6a59e12a30f7a42636372369410f/5e0b8/75e2668c37d08d90577b4018892f19f0.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2018-markdown","title":"Baltimore Ravens Player Donates to Marijuana Research","slug":"baltimore-ravens-player-donates-to-marijuana-research","content":"### What Does This Mean For the NFL?\r\n\r\nThis past week, Baltimore Ravens player, Eugene Monroe, donated $80,000 to fund marijuana research at the University of Pennsylvania and John Hopkins University. Monroe, as well as some former players, has long been vocal that the NFL’s policies towards marijuana need reform, but will they listen?\r\n\r\n### The NFL’s Archaic Drug Policy\r\n\r\nIn March, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell made it clear that he had no intention changing the marijuana policy stating, “I don’t distinguish between the medical marijuana and marijuana.” Goodall has also acknowledged the increased research into medical marijuana, but says the findings are not yet significant enough to change his mind or the mind of the committee.\r\n\r\nMonroe supports the use of medical marijuana in the treatment of chronic pain for himself and his fellow players. “Your job automatically gives you the symptom of chronic pain,” said Monroe of football. The constant soreness and pain has led many players, including Monroe himself, to seek out non-inflammatory medications and opioids to help manage his pain, but Monroe is well aware of the possibility of addiction and overdose that comes with opioid use. “Opioids are ruining lives across the country, and as athletes we’re not immune to those perils,” said Monroe in an interview to philly.com.\r\n\r\nIn 2015, a class action law suit was brought against the NFL because 13 plaintiffs are accusing NFL teams of pushing opioids on players to keep them on the field playing despite pain or injuries. Many players, like Monroe, think there is a better solution to dealing with the chronic pain, marijuana. Monroe is the first active player in the NFL to take such a public stand and he knows that there are potentially long term consequences, \"This is an issue that goes beyond any personal career implications. I understand why other players may be adverse to speaking out, but our health is worth it.”\r\n\r\nAt the 2016 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens, the same team Monroe is a member of, removed Ole Miss player Laremy Tunsil from their prospect list after a video of him smoking marijuana surfacedon the day of the draft. Former Denver Broncos player Nate Jackson admitted that he medicated with cannabis all throughout his football career from 2003 to 2008. \r\nThough other former players have come forward, the numbers are small due to the fact that marijuana use in the NFL could be career ending.\r\n\r\n### Where Will the Money Go?\r\n\r\nThe donation, which was routed through a Colorado-based nonprofit called Realm of Caring, will go to new research focused on the effects of cannabis on pain and brain injuries specifically in football players. Researcher Marcel Bon-Miller of the University of Pennsylvania said of the upcoming research with Monroe’s donation, \"We'll be examining both current and retired NFL players to understand the impact of cannabis or cannabinoid use on recovering from injury.\"\r\n\r\nCannabis has been proven in many studies to be extremely effective in treating chronic pain as well as opioids, without many of the negative side effects. Cannabis has shown to be as effective as codeine in certain situations in treating pain. A recent study in Massachusetts showed tremendous success for patients using cannabis in the place of opioids. Dr. Gary Witman of Cana Care Docs, who administered the study, said, “As soon as we can get people off opioids to a nonaddicting substance — and medicinal marijuana is nonaddicting — I think it would dramatically impact the amount of opioid deaths.” Witman treated 80 patients who were addicted to opioids, muscle relaxers, or anti-anxiety medications with marijuana, 75 of the patients stopped taking their original medications in place of cannabis because it alleviated their symptoms. \r\n\r\nCannabis has also been shown to have amazing neuroprotective qualities that could decrease the consequences of concussions, one of the largest dangers facing NFL players. Marijuana stimulates the endocannabinoid system in the body, which has been seen to decrease the consequences of traumatic brain injuries. \r\n\r\nMonroe’s contribution to medical marijuana research could save the lives of many of his fellow players if it proves persuasive enough for the NFL to take notice. The NFL claims they still need more research, so the research funded by Monroe research will provide new hope in the form of football focused cannabis research. \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":1.7699115044247788,"src":"/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/b121c/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/f836f/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.jpg 200w,\n/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/2244e/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.jpg 400w,\n/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/b121c/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.jpg 749w","srcWebp":"/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/dcdbd/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/61e93/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.webp 200w,\n/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/1f5c5/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.webp 400w,\n/static/f00eb1fdfd4ebd78b5ebe0e41fa14874/dcdbd/9d1f36aa3dea50d1302833576851c996.webp 749w","sizes":"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2112-markdown","title":"Brookings Institute: Recommendation Could Improve Access ","slug":"brookings-institute-recommendation-could-improve-access","content":"The Brookings Institute, a nonprofit research and policy think tank,\nrecently released a paper entitled \"[Ending the U.S. government's war on\nmedical marijuana\nresearch](http://www.brookings.edu/~/media/Research/Files/Papers/2015/10/20-war-on-marijuana-research-hudak-wallack/Ending-the-US-governments-war-on-medical-marijuana-research.pdf?la=en).\"\nIn it, authors John Hudak and Grace Wallack call on officials to stop\nimpeding research into cannabis, especially in light of the increasing\nnumber of states that are legalizing medical marijuana. In a country\nwhere [76 percent of\ndoctors](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/survey-76-percent-of-doctors-approve-of-medical-marijuana-use/)\napprove of medical marijuana, [24\nstates](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/01/06/marijuana-legal-states-medical-recreational/4343199/)\nhave legalized medical cannabis and [seven more\nstates](http://www.cheatsheet.com/business/5-states-and-one-city-ready-to-legalize-marijuana.html/?a=viewall)\nare on the precipice of approval, it's confusing that the federal\ngovernment would continue to throw up major roadblocks that interfere\nwith adequate and important research.\n\nFrom the Brookings paper, researchers Hudak and Wallack boldly state\nthat, \"It is time for the federal government to recognize the serious\npublic policy risks born from limited medical, public health and\npharmaceutical research into cannabis and its use.\" It's their fear,\nthey explain, that increasing usage - in both the medical and\nrecreational realm - may be putting patients and partakers at risk\nbecause cannabis hasn't undergone some of the stringent testing and\napproval phases that the FDA imposes on other medicinal substances. An\nautumn 2014 compilation of statistics suggests that there may be more\nthan [2.4 million medical marijuana\npatients](http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005889)\nin the U.S., and this doesn't include the recreational users in Colorado\nor Washington, two states that have recently changed their cannabis\nlaws.\n\nIn one\n[critique](http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/marijuana_law/2015/10/new-brookings-report-calls-for-ending-the-us-governments-war-on-medical-marijuana-research.html)\npublished after the release of the Brookings paper, blogger, lawyer and\nOhio State law professor [Douglas A.\nBerman](http://moritzlaw.osu.edu/faculty/professor/douglas-a-berman/)\nadds his voice in calling for the government to stop impeding important\nresearch into the benefits of medical cannabis. As part of the law\nprofessors blog network, Berman routinely writes about [marijuana law,\npolicy and reform](http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/marijuana_law/),\noften highlighting how people on the national stage react and respond to\nthe issue of medical cannabis, and what, in particular, is impacting his\nhome state of Ohio. He also [pointed to a Gallup\nsurvey](http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/marijuana_law/2015/10/latest-gallup-poll-shows-58-support-for-marijuana-legalization-and-23-support-for-those-under-50.html)\nthat showed 58 percent support for marijuana legalization across all age\ngroups, with the support ratio rising to two thirds for those under 50\nyears of age.\n\nIt's that same support by the common man, and by even more doctors, that\nhas the Brookings' paper authors so very concerned. While some groups\nmay point to the dangers of marijuana, typically referring to its\nrecreational use while ignoring its medicinal value, Hudak and Wallack\nsimply point out that we, as a whole, may not yet fully understand\ncannabis intimately enough to continue relying on it as a medicine\nbefore more depth is achieved through scientific study.\n\nAnd on that issue, there isn't much dissent. In fact, news articles\ncontinuously appear from respected news outlets like\n[Newsweek](http://www.newsweek.com/why-its-hard-do-marijuana-research-69753)\nand [USA\nToday](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2015/08/18/feds-limit-research-marijuana-medical-use/31547557/),\nbemoaning the dearth of research studies on marijuana due to federal\nbarriers. USA Today, in particular, points out that the federal\ngovernment spent 1.1 billion dollars from 2008 to 2014 to study\nmarijuana from the stance of how it could be abused or how addictive it\nmight be. Less than 300 million dollars - a mere quarter of the total\namount spent - actually went to research on how marijuana could actually\nbe beneficial to patients.\n\nLooping back to the high percentage of doctors who approve of medical\nmarijuana or would prescribe it themselves if already legal or pending\nlegalization in their states, it would be hard to find a bigger\nopponent-turned-proponent than CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Several years\nago, he penned an important piece on exactly [why he changed his\nmind](http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/08/health/gupta-changed-mind-marijuana/)\nand why other doctors might consider doing the same. He points out that\nhe \"mistakenly believed the Drug Enforcement Administration listed\nmarijuana as a schedule 1 substance because of sound scientific proof,\"\nonly to find that \"they didn't have the science to support that claim.\"\nBeyond that, he began to look closely at medical cases where medical\nmarijuana made a huge difference in the lives of patients where\ntraditional FDA-approved substances failed. In particular, he looked to\nthe case of a little girl in Colorado named Charlotte who was able to\nbreak free from a hugely destructive cycle of seizures by taking a\nspecific blend of medical cannabis.\n\nIn short, for Dr. Gupta, seeing was believing. Along the way, Gupta also\ntore down old beliefs about marijuana's addictive or destructive\nproperties, many of which were based on personal beliefs in the absence\nof sensible research. He also found \"hundreds of journal articles,\nmostly documenting the benefits\" dating \"between the years 1840 and\n1930.\"\n\nBetween Gupta's well-respected medical opinion, the paper penned by\nBrookings' writers Hudak and Wallack, high levels of support in the\nmedical community and rising levels of support amongst the general\npopulation, it would seem that the writing is (finally) on the wall.\nPerhaps more acceptance in general will lead to more approval and less\nrestriction at the governmental level. That approval would open the\nfloodgates for meaningful research and may benefit millions of patients.\n\nIn fact, millions of patients already achieve health benefits through\nthe use of cannabis in states that already allow its prescription and\nuse. Tens of millions of patients suffering from all types of\n[ailments](https://www.hellomd.com/learn/health-conditions), such as\n[migraine\nheadaches](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5abea5dcf24d1300077ccbac/how-does-cannabis-work-to-relieve-migraines),\n[multiple\nsclerosis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5936cf68a81c05002adae2f7/new-studies-indicate-cannabis-helps-with-multiple-sclerosis),\n[chronic\npain](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/562150d03232620006450000/top-14-marijuana-strains-for-different-kinds-of-pain),\n[glaucoma](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c27a1d65613800063c0000/medical-marijuana-preserves-vision-and-reduces-glaucoma-pain),\n[diabetes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ae8fa71049b4f000a64e944/how-marijuana-may-help-manage-diabetes-onset-and-severity),\n[depression](https://www.hellomd.com/learn/depression)\nand\n[AIDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55aec80f3837390006020000/how-medical-marijuana-alleviates-symptoms-of-hivaids)\nmay also benefit from loosened restrictions on medical marijuana.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/mdgovpics/6322449697/in/photolist-aCGd2p-aCG85p-aCJUZW-aCJTBJ-aCGbEX-aCJRb5-aCG8kr-aCGiF2-aCJNU9-aCGgHX-aCGaji-aCJVUY-aCGh6c-aCG9dB-aCJVtm-aCJYM5-aCJZbb-aCJZCs-aCJWiW-aCGbka-aCJXTm-aCGaPX-aCGcDx-aCJXjy-aCG7NB-aCG8EM-aCJWS7-qAEEc9-bLU7jF-bxZqho-pWrLRt-qTe2k6-bxZpYA-bxZqg7-qALJi2-bxZqmo-bLU71M-bxZqd3-bxZq27-bLU75k-bxZqo9-bxZqeY-bxZqbU-bxZqjW-bxZpXh-bxZq7U-qQW32J-pWrLEX-9yo8x9-bxZq9j)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/ee604/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.png","srcSet":"/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/69585/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.png 200w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/497c6/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.png 400w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/ee604/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.png 800w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/2f01b/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.png 1001w","srcWebp":"/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/58556/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/61e93/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.webp 200w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/1f5c5/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.webp 400w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/58556/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.webp 800w,\n/static/ee2708c07fbda16520667d4c762e11a0/177b8/e53e607d0b58c1244a3baca96dcbad86.webp 1001w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2053-markdown","title":"Download our Medical Marijuana Patient Study","slug":"download-our-medical-marijuana-patient-study","content":"For us at HelloMD, the medical cannabis industry is an exciting and fascinating business to be in. Every day we leave the office knowing that we are improving people's lives and helping further the cause for mainstream acceptance of this amazing plant.  In the short time since we’ve been providing our service (one year) we’ve witnessed a positive shift in how the broader population perceive the legal cannabis market. The collective contribution of the industry has performed a remarkable feat in changing attitudes and in moving us from back-alley to the main street.\r\n\r\nWe have come far. Yet, for anyone entering the industry, indeed for anyone in it, it can still be difficult finding information to help plan and grow a business. Very little is published indicating patient preferences, methods of use, reasons for use, etc. Most in the industry are planning products and services based upon small sample sets of anecdotal data and intuition. Not that there is anything wrong with that. After all, we did that. But if that’s all you’ve got, then it’s really difficult to identify trends and to plan ahead. \r\n\r\nThat is why, in January of this year, we conducted a detailed study of patients that use medical marijuana. \r\n\r\n[Download the medical marijuana patient study here](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf).\r\n\r\nWe believe it to be the most comprehensive study to date and we are very pleased to share it with the community at large. Our methodology included surveying our membership of 17,000 patients (all of whom have been evaluated by our own doctors), correlating with other data sets (public and private), analyzing, and then using the results to form key findings. Thanks to our friends at [FireFly](http://www.thefirefly.com) (of whom generously donated 5 of their beautiful vaporizers as an incentive to participants) we had an exceptional response of over 1,400 patients. Anonymously, every one of them answered an extensive questionnaire that detailed their own experience and details regarding conditions leading to use, modes of use, efficacy, and much more.\r\n\r\nAll this data led to key findings and learning's that helped us understand:  \r\n\r\n - The demographic of patients using medical marijuana today, and how it has been changing overtime\r\n - Conditions being treating with medical cannabis\r\n - How effective cannabis is as a treatment modality\r\n - How patients feel about using cannabis as an alternative, or as a compliment, to other more-traditional prescribed pharmaceuticals\r\n - How, or if, patients talk about their use of cannabis among family, friends and colleagues.\r\n - Where medical cannabis purchases are made\r\n - Where patients obtain education and knowledge of medical cannabis\r\n\r\nPerhaps the most surprising finding; an emerging demographic that, indisputably, is eclipsing the recreational demographic. This has all sorts of implications – politically and otherwise.\r\n\r\nWe have compiled all findings into a report that can be [downloaded as a PDF here](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf).","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/14b42/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/f836f/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 200w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/2244e/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 400w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/14b42/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 800w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/47498/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/58556/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/61e93/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 200w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/1f5c5/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 400w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/58556/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 800w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/99238/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5696,"name":"Research","slug":"research","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}