A Guide to Understanding Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis is becoming an increasingly popular option for patients seeking relief from various health conditions. With its potential benefits and growing acceptance, it is essential for patients to understand what medical cannabis is, how it works, and what to consider when using it. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of medical cannabis, helping patients make informed decisions about their health.

A healthy cannabis plant thriving in a garden.

What is Medical Cannabis?

Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat various medical conditions. The plant contains numerous compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects. The two most well-known cannabinoids are:

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

  The psychoactive component that produces the "high" associated with cannabis. THC has been shown to help with pain relief, nausea, and appetite stimulation.

  
  

• Cannabidiol (CBD)

  A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects.

  
  

How Does Medical Cannabis Work?

The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and immune response. The ECS consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids produced by the body, and enzymes that break down these compounds.

When medical cannabis is consumed, cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to the ECS receptors, influencing the body’s response to pain, inflammation, and other conditions. This interaction can lead to various therapeutic effects, making medical cannabis a viable option for many patients.

Conditions Treated with Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis has been studied for its potential benefits in treating a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic Pain

  May reduce pain severity and improve function, particularly neuropathic and inflammatory pain.

  
  

• Cancer-Related Symptoms

  Used to help manage pain, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, and anxiety associated with cancer and chemotherapy.

  
  

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

  Can help reduce muscle spasticity, stiffness, and neuropathic pain.

  
  

• Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

  Certain cannabinoids, especially CBD, have shown effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in some patients.

  
  

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  May help with sleep disturbances, nightmares, and hyperarousal symptoms.

  
  

• Anxiety Disorders

  Some patients report reduced anxiety at low doses, though effects can vary by formulation and dose.

  
  

• Depression (Treatment-Resistant)

  Studied for mood regulation and symptom relief when conventional treatments are ineffective.

  
  

• Insomnia and Sleep Disorders

  May improve sleep onset, duration, and quality for some individuals.

  
  

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis)

  Studied for symptom relief such as pain, appetite loss, and inflammation.

  
  

• Parkinson’s Disease

  May help reduce tremors, rigidity, sleep problems, and pain.

  
  

• Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia (Adjunct Use)

  Studied for agitation, appetite stimulation, and behavioral symptoms.

  
  

• Migraine and Headache Disorders

  Some evidence suggests reduced frequency and severity of migraines.

  
  

• Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid)

  Used for pain relief and reduction of inflammation.

  
  

• Neuropathic Pain

  Particularly studied for nerve-related pain caused by diabetes, injury, or chemotherapy.

  
  

• Glaucoma

  Studied for temporary reduction in intraocular pressure, though effects are short-lived.

  
  

• HIV/AIDS-Related Symptoms

  Used to stimulate appetite, reduce nausea, and manage chronic pain.

  
  

• Endometriosis

  Studied for pelvic pain relief and inflammation control.

  
  

• Fibromyalgia

  May help reduce widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disruption.

  
  

• Tourette Syndrome

  Some evidence suggests reduction in tic severity.

  
  

• Palliative and Hospice Care

  Used to improve comfort, pain control, appetite, mood, and overall quality of life.

  
  
  
  

Types of Medical Cannabis Products Currently Allowed in Nebraska*

Medical cannabis is available in various forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common types of products:

• Oral Tablets & Capsules

  Pre-measured doses swallowed like traditional medication. Designed for consistent, controlled effects.

  
  

• Tinctures

  Liquid cannabis extracts taken under the tongue or swallowed. Allow flexible dosing and relatively fast absorption.

  
  

• Gel-Based Lozenges

  Solid, non-candy gel products that dissolve slowly in the mouth. Intended for precise dosing without being a food item.

  
  

• Topical Creams, Gels, and Oils

  Applied directly to the skin for localized relief. Do not produce psychoactive effects.

  
  

• Transdermal Patches

  Adhesive patches worn on the skin that deliver cannabinoids steadily over time into the bloodstream.

  
  

• Suppositories

  Rectal or vaginal formulations used when oral or other routes are not appropriate. Focused on medical, not recreational use.

• Cannabis Oils or Liquids for Medical Devices

  Formulations intended for use with approved medical devices (such as inhalers or nebulizers), not for smoking or vaping.

  
  

*See current emergency regulations on the State of Nebraska website.