What are the Pros and Cons of using Medical Marijuana for treating Crohns Disease?
Pros: –Marijuana has been demonstrated to decrease Crohn’s symptoms. –Marijuana decreases the need for immunosuppressive treatment of Crohn’s. –Marijuana is less toxic than most medical therapies for Crohn’s. –Synthetic cannabinoids (Marinol, dronabinol) are legal but may not be as effective as natural marijuana. Cons: –Marijuana is illegal. –Inhaled marijuana smoke may be carcinogenic (although other forms of ingestion may not be). –Exact dosage is difficult to control. –Marijuana has no effect on the underlying inflammation that causes the symptoms of Crohn’s. There is a great deal of clinical and anecdotal evidence to suggest that marijuana helps relieve symptoms of Crohn disease. The drawbacks involve possible harmful effects of smoking marijuana, impairment of driving skills, etc., and legal complications regarding its use.
