Cannabis Extracts Are Beneficial for Treatment
Cannabis contains many compounds called Cannabinoids, with the main ones being THC (Tetrahydrocannabidiol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). These can be applied for medical benefits: THC affects the nervous system, causing relaxation, sleep, reducing nausea and vomiting, and stimulating appetite. CBD has effects that reduce inflammation, decrease seizures and spasms, and has properties that inhibit the growth of various tumor cells in vitro.
It is true that cannabis has many therapeutic benefits, but all must be based on appropriate use and under medical supervision only. Let’s look at the requirements.
Dangers of Using Cannabis Medicine Without Medical Treatment Planning (Self-Purchased)
Using cannabis medicine without treatment planning and without production standards cannot determine the concentration of cannabis compounds and may contain other toxic substances. This can cause undesirable side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, abnormal color vision, nausea, memory loss, low blood pressure, dry mouth, and mental disorders such as depression. For patients with chronic diseases who must take medication continuously, stopping medication to use cannabis medicine for treatment is prohibited because it can cause dangerous complications and even death.
Can You Buy Medical Cannabis Products Yourself?
Cannabis extracts or cannabis medicine are not available for general sale. Even patients who will be treated with cannabis medicine cannot buy cannabis extracts for self-use but must go through treatment planning by a doctor. In addition, medical personnel who provide treatment with cannabis extracts must undergo training and have a license to prescribe before dispensing cannabis products obtained from production facilities certified by the Ministry of Public Health. Other treatment methods must be considered first because cannabis medicine is not the first choice for disease treatment.
What Patients Starting Cannabis Extracts Need to Know
- Understand information about cannabis before treatment: Cannabis extracts are not the first choice for treatment, used as a supplement to standard treatment, not to stop existing treatment. Patients must understand the expected benefits and possible risks, and use standardized cannabis extracts with clear ratios of active compounds (THC and CBD).
- When starting cannabis extracts: Start with the lowest dose. If ineffective, increase slowly in small amounts. A caregiver should be present when starting use. If side effects occur, take the patient to see a doctor immediately. The first dose should be given before bedtime with close supervision.
- Inform the doctor about any medications currently used: Because cannabis extracts may affect some medications the patient regularly takes, which could be dangerous.
Dr. Sitthipol Chinpong
Specialist in Diabetes, Thyroid, and Endocrinology
Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
