Can Cannabis Cause Harm?
Cannabis is not going to be appropriate for everyone and is by no means harmless. Whether the patient is self-medicating or you, the provider, want to recommend cannabis, there are important things to consider like drug interactions, side effects, sensitive populations, and even addiction and withdrawal. In this episode, we answer Can Cannabis Cause Harm plus, discuss legal implications to be aware of.
Guest Expert
Dr. Codi Pterson, a clinical pediatric PharmD, is among the leading experts applying their western medical training to the field of cannabis. Graduating from Duquesne University with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, Codi’s extensive pediatric pharmacy experience has positioned him well to navigate the medical cannabis space.
He is currently pursuing an MS in Medical Cannabis Science & Therapeutics from the University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy. With this degree, he wishes to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. In addition, Codi works with businesses to optimize processes, ensure compliance, and enhance business outcomes.
Codi is most interested in promoting the medicinal value of cannabis, enhancing endocannabinoid health, and driving the industry forward with an evidence-based, integrative approach to endocannabinoid health.
You can find him on LinkedIn, TikTok, or Instagram and TikTok at CannabisPharmD.
Transcript
Kara Ware (00:49)
So far this season, we’ve talked about the history of cannabis, where our prejudice comes from, the available research on cannabis, and the basics of the endocannabinoid system.
Nathan Morris (00:52):
We’ve really covered a lot so far, Kara. And remember, this season, the episodes build upon one another. So if you haven’t already… And before you listen to this one, I would even recommend going back and checking out these early episodes because it really is this thing where we’re going to be talking about things today that really are dependent on episodes one, two, and three. And cannabis can be a divisive topic. Some think it’s a panacea, and others are adamant that it’s a gateway drug and causes serious harm. As is the case with most things, we think the truth is somewhere in the middle. Cannabis is not a panacea, but it also isn’t the root of all evil.
Kara Ware (01:29):
It’s a plant with potential therapeutic value and also some potential side effects.
Nathan Morris (01:36):
Right. Cannabis is not going to be appropriate for everyone. It is by no means harmless. Whether the patient is self-medicating or you, the provider, want to recommend cannabis, there are important things to consider, like drug interaction, side effects, sensitive population, and even addiction and withdrawal.
Kara Ware (01:53):
And patients, we aren’t always aware of these risks, Nathan.
Nathan Morris (02:00):
That’s right. And I think, as healthcare providers, we need to know the good and the bad. We need to weigh the risk and the benefits of cannabis in order to guide patients to the best treatment option.
Kara Ware (02:12):
Right. So as you just said, let’s cover in this episode possible side effects, sensitive populations, addiction and withdrawal, drug interactions, and legal implications to be aware of.
Cannabis and cannabis-derived products are not legal in all states or countries. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts appearing on these podcasts are strictly their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Good Medicine On the Go or its sponsors. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.