There are a lot of people who hold misconceptions about marijuana. For individuals considering medical marijuana, it may seem overwhelming or frightening. In reality, it is not as scary as some of these misconceptions make it seem. Learn the truth behind marijuana misconceptions.
It's a Gateway Drug
One of the most consistent myths about marijuana throughout the decades has been that it is a gateway drug. Countless studies, including from The Institute of Medicine as far back as 1999, have found one resounding and unavoidable challenge to this myth: correlation does not equal causation. In reality, environmental factors play the major role in an individual's susceptibility to hard drugs.
Additionally, since medical marijuana is prescribed in controlled dosages, patients will know the safe amount of marijuana to consume and can discuss the best treatment plan with their doctor.
Users Will Not Want to Do Anything
The perception that many people have of marijuana users is that they are lazy and do nothing with their lives. Certain strains of the drug may create calming effects, but not all. Strains have their own effects, and it is possible to find one that energizes and motivates the user.
It Is Dangerous
Most doctors agree that marijuana is not dangerous. It does not lead to overdoses, and the health risks are minimal. While smoking may affect the lungs, a 2012 study from the University of California in San Francisco found that marijuana smoking caused less damage to the pulmonary system than long-term tobacco use, both in terms of air flow rate and lung capacity. However, alternative forms of cannabis consumption such as oils or creams can help remove risks of lung damage entirely.
Furthermore, a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), found that prescription painkillers and heroin were responsible for 33,000 American deaths in 2015, while zero Americans were killed by marijuana overdose in the same year.
It Can Lower IQ
Lowering IQ comes from the fact that users have lowered cognitive abilities when impaired. However, this is true of any substance, including alcohol. A 2014 study from the University College of London found no link between cannabis use and lower IQ in adolescents.
It Is Only for Terminal Illnesses
When people think of medical marijuana, they think of cancer. It is part of cancer treatment, but it can go beyond that. It can aid in symptom management for various types of qualifying conditions.
In fact, recent data shows that medical marijuana may actually be used to help with opioid addiction. In self-reported data from New Mexico, where medical marijuana is legal, 25 percent of patients reported that marijuana helped relieve anxiety and lower their cravings.
Marijuana is not the scary drug that years of propaganda would like the masses to believe. It is a beneficial, safe drug that can help millions of people to lead healthier and happier lives. If you think medical cannabis could help you, schedule an appointment with Marijuana Doctor to learn more about treatment options in Florida.
