Millions of people suffer the pain and chronic health problems caused by cancer, and the treatment of said cancer. The nasty side effects of some cancer treatments include nausea, vomiting, depression, pain and sleeping problems. Medical marijuana has been proven to assist in restoring sleep and appetite to people undergoing cancer treatment. Many people disagree with doctors that suggest medical marijuana to their patients by pointing to the fact that there are pharmaceuticals that achieve the same goals as pot. While that is a fair argument, some of the medications prescribed to cancer patients have side effects that require another form of medication to deal with the side effects of the first. It would be unfair, however, not to list the side effects of marijuana use:
- Anxiety
- Drowsiness
- Increased thirst or dry mouth
- Heightened awareness of surrounding
- Loss of short-term memory or slow reaction times
- Insomnia
- Feelings of euphoria
The use of medicinal marijuana is one of the most highly debated and controversial drug reform policy issues. It is strongly supported in the medical community by both patients and medical professionals as a relief to cancer treatment side effects, glaucoma, depression, and other health conditions. Others strongly oppose its medicinal use, claiming it is highly addictive and a gateway drug.
When it comes to people dealing with cancer, one of the most horrible diseases out there, it would seem logical to consider all options available to the patient to relieve the awful side effects of cancer treatment and medication, as well as the symptoms themselves. It is important though, that the patient’s doctor be informed about any marijuana use for medicinal purposes. Equally important is getting the marijuana from a reputable source, as some pot may contain other chemicals that could prove detrimental to the patient’s health, treatment and recovery.