Patients who meet the qualifications can use marijuana legally in Arizona for certain medical conditions. Arizona allows the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, but recreational use remains prohibited. In order to purchase medicinal marijuana in Arizona, you will need a card and a doctor’s prescription. If you want to get your medical marijuana card electronically, check out Green Health Docs.
It can be difficult to understand how medical marijuana impacts your health or why a doctor might recommend it. Taking control of your own health is now more important than ever. With new research and advancements in the field, it’s never been easier to stay healthy. Arizona takes your health and medical marijuana seriously. Here are some important facts about the topic. medical cannabis certificate
These guidelines and requirements for medical marijuana might seem extreme. However, they are meant to protect the health of those patients who use it legitimately while discouraging its abuse elsewhere in the state. Obtaining medicinal marijuana in Arizona requires visiting a licensed dispensary and detailed vetting/certification process. Adults over 18 years old must sign a form attesting that they will not allow their medical marijuana be given to anyone else. The patient must also provide a current photo, a driver’s licence or other government issued ID as well as additional questions. The patient will also need to add or update the designated caregiver. Patients under 18 must have their parent or legal guardian apply with them, and they will sign a separate attestation. Caregivers and dispensaries also go through a rigorous application/licensing process administered by the state. After a processing fee has been paid and the application approved, the patient will receive an electronic card that allows them to purchase and possess up 2.5 ounces of medicinal marijuana (or grow 12 plants) bi-weekly during the next two years.
Why doctors may recommend medical marijuana
A doctor registered with Arizona Department of Health Services must diagnose and validate a qualifying condition in all scenarios. A doctor can recommend marijuana as a medicinal drug for a variety of reasons. In most states, including Arizona, doctors must first pass a qualification process before they are able to recommend or validate medical marijuana recommendations. This is done in order to provide them with additional training on how marijuana can be used for medical purposes. The doctor will then discuss with the patient the condition that qualifies for medicinal marijuana and recommend it or not.
Medical marijuana and its use in treating certain conditions
Although the effects of marijuana are still being researched, there is strong evidence that it can treat epilepsy and chronic pain. Cannabinoids found in marijuana reduce anxiety and pain, tighten the muscles, and reduce nausea. Research is still ongoing to determine if it has any additional health benefits. Arizona’s current qualifying conditions include cancer, glaucoma and HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C or any chronic/debilitating diseases, PTSD, Cachexia Alzheimer’s Disease, Crohn’s Disease, severe/persistent muscular spasms and epilepsy.
Potential risks
The process of acquiring and using medicinal marijuana can be complicated because, while it has many benefits, there are also potential risks. Medical marijuana has some risks that are fairly straightforward, but they’re worth knowing. Patients may still experience side effects such as breathing problems, red eyes, or increased heart rate despite the therapeutic and relaxing benefits of certain aspects of the marijuana plant.
Mayo Clinic lists potential side effects, including:
- Heart rate increases
- Dizziness
- Memory and concentration impaired
- Slower reaction time
- Negative drug-to-drug interactions
- Heart attack and stroke risk increases
- Increased appetite
- Addiction Potential
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome
- Hallucinations and mental illness
- Withdrawal symptoms
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has a detailed breakdown of the potential benefits and negative effects of marijuana use for medical purposes.
Arizona’s commitment for further medical research
Arizona takes sensible precautions, and has a stake in its citizens’ health when it comes to medicinal marijuana. ADHS has a contract with the University of Arizona Center for Toxicology, Pharmacology Education and Research and Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, located at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, in Tucson, to develop and distribute resources and guidelines on safe, healthy use for patients, physicians and dispensaries. Arizona, along with its partnership with Banner Poison & Drug Information Center Phoenix and the latest information on clinical trials is committed to research the medical applications of marijuana and keeping their citizens safe.
