| Abstract: | Over the past decade, cannabis has gained popularity as a treatment for many conditions. Patients with various complaints ranging from chronic pain to insomnia to posttraumatic stress disorder are using cannabis with or without medical oversight. The effects of cannabis can vary widely depending on the strain that is consumed, the ratio of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol to cannabidiol, and the plant’s terpene profile. Considering the wide range of possible effects on the mind and the body, it is important for clinicians to have a basic understanding of medicinal cannabis, including the neurotransmitters and the endocannabinoid system. Thirty-three states have legalized the use of cannabis for prescribed medical purposes, and several others are considering doing so. Eleven states plus Washington DC, Guam, and Puerto Rico have legalized cannabis for recreational use. The objective of this article is to provide clinicians with the basic knowledge needed to understand the mechanism of action of medicinal cannabis in humans. We also identify some common terms associated with the cannabis culture and offer suggestions for patient teaching. |
