Medical Cannabis Handbook

For Healthcare Professionals
ISBN:

978-0-8261-3563-6

(Print)

978-0-8261-3573-5

(eBook)
DOI:

10.1891/9780826135735

Published:

Abstract

This book covers a wealth of information from marijuana’s early history, the laws effecting its use, the pharmacodynamics, potential uses, and side effects, to mention a few areas of interest. It helps healthcare professionals to navigate the maze of information and disinformation about medical cannabis. Written for all healthcare professionals who are considering including medical cannabis in their treatment plans, this is the first handbook to disseminate all the information needed to advise patients safely and legally. Replete with evidence-based guidelines firmly grounded in the most up-to-date research, the resource covers the historical, legal, and biological context of medical cannabis so healthcare professionals can confidently discuss possible plans with their patients. The book delves into the biology of the endocannabinoid system addressing how cannabis interacts with the body, its effects and side effects, and how to manage cannabis-drug interactions. It discusses in detail how to talk to patients, what language providers can and cannot use, protocols for patient-centered dosing, and the variety of available cannabinoid pharmaceuticals. Based on the latest research, the book demonstrates the efficacy of cannabis in treating a broad range of symptoms and conditions. Written for any healthcare professional who might have to answer patient questions about medical cannabis, it dispels common myths and confirms little-known facts about medical cannabis. The book delivers the most up-to-date, evidence-based research on medical cannabis to enhance understanding of this complex topic. It provides historical, legal, and biological content so that healthcare providers can confidently discuss medical cannabis with patients and discusses pain management regarding cannabis and opioids.

The Discovery of the Endocannabinoid System

DOI:

10.1891/9780826135735.0003

Abstract

This chapter charts how the 1964 discovery of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol led to the 1988 discovery of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), the largest receptor system and the master regulator of homeostasis in the human body and discusses how and why cannabinoids interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors to treat a vast number of illnesses. The ECS maintains the body’s homeostasis, acting as a chemical bridge between body and mind. It regulates blood sugar, immune function, muscle and fat tissues, hormones, pain centers, reward centers, and metabolic functions. Cannabis’ Schedule I status is the reason that no research institution has ever administered anandamide to a human being.