What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to the medicinal use of the cannabis species of plants (marijuana and hemp) for the management of various health conditions. Cannabis contains various chemical compounds that interact with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). The compounds in the plant include delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Though researchers are still uncovering the function of your ECS, it’s theorized that the cell-signaling system plays a significant role in managing mood, sleep, pain sensations, hunger, and memory. The cannabinoid compounds in medical cannabis interact with your ECS like your endogenous cannabinoids, which may improve cell signaling and alleviate symptoms associated with your health condition.
Am I a good candidate for medical cannabis?
The team at Orlando Psychiatric Associates determines if you’re a good candidate for medical cannabis during a consultation. Your psychiatrist may recommend the plant-based alternative treatment for the management of your anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In addition to using it to treat mental health conditions, the team may also recommend medical cannabis if you have a qualifying diagnosis, such as:
- Chronic pain
- Neuropathy
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Autism-related aggression and irritability
If you’re suffering from the symptoms of one of the many qualifying conditions for the use of medical cannabis, contact Orlando Psychiatric Associates to schedule a consultation to learn more about your treatment options.
What can I expect during a medical cannabis consultation?
You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the mental health experts at Orlando Psychiatric Associates for a medical cannabis consultation. During your exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical and mental health history, and current treatments. Depending on your specific health needs for medical cannabis, the team may request medical records from your primary care provider.
If you have a qualifying condition for medical cannabis, your doctor at Orlando Psychiatric Associates enters your information into the medical cannabis Registry. Once you’re registered, you can apply for your medical cannabis Use Identification Card. After you receive your card, you can fill your recommended prescription at one of the medical cannabis dispensaries.
Depending on your specific health needs, the team may request you return to the office periodically for additional treatments, such as therapy or medication management.
To learn more about medical cannabis, call Orlando Psychiatric Associates or request a consultation through the online booking tool.
