The discussion surrounding cannabis is becoming more prevalent within the medical field as its use recreationally and medicinally increases nationwide.
One of the groups looking at these effects is UW’s Continuing Education Program for pharmacists, which includes a class called Cannabinoids as Medicines.
According to the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, the benefits of medical cannabis can vary extensively based on the targeted application, along with the specific cannabinoid.
Schmitz said CBD dominates as a treatment for different seizure disorders because of its FDA-approved medication, Epidiolex, whereas therapeutic applications of THC focus on pain and relief.
Research done in 2017 on the effects of medical cannabis at a national level aimed to answer these types of questions.
“Maybe there’s more research coming out, but typically, cancer isn’t at the forefront of my concerns,” Schmitz said.
According to the FDA, Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol is another psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.
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