My biggest Obama disappointment was that he did not use an executive order to make the feds get off our elderly aching backs on the MJ issue. Such a no-brainer.
38
Marijuana should be legalized same as alcohol or tobacco. It should be affordable, and people should be able to grow it either for their own personal use or for sale
36
EPIPHANY : Cannabis is necessary for our bodies healthy endocannabinoid system to prevent illnesses .
Recreational marijuana prevents many illnesses including cancers . Medical marijuana is waiting for illnesses to set into the body (Risking Death) before going to a doctor to try to get a prescription .
Research needs to prove children born with illnesses or develop them early are caused by cannabinoid deficiencies & possibly past generations of cannabinoid deficiencies .
Research needs to prove seniors develop illnesses over time because of cannabinoid deficiencies .
Excessive recreational alcohol enables random violence , suicide , vehicular homicide , domestic violence , child abuse , date rape & the use of harder drugs . Marijuana is Safer & should be legalized nationwide to gradually replace tobacco & alcohol .
Currently politicians insist on states to legalize instead of nationwide because they are anonymously invested into tobacco , alcohol , drug screening , law enforcement , prison industry , death industry , pharmaceuticals , etc. , etc. , etc.
Recreational marijuana prevents many illnesses including cancers . Medical marijuana is waiting for illnesses to set into the body (Risking Death) before going to a doctor to try to get a prescription .
Research needs to prove children born with illnesses or develop them early are caused by cannabinoid deficiencies & possibly past generations of cannabinoid deficiencies .
Research needs to prove seniors develop illnesses over time because of cannabinoid deficiencies .
Excessive recreational alcohol enables random violence , suicide , vehicular homicide , domestic violence , child abuse , date rape & the use of harder drugs . Marijuana is Safer & should be legalized nationwide to gradually replace tobacco & alcohol .
Currently politicians insist on states to legalize instead of nationwide because they are anonymously invested into tobacco , alcohol , drug screening , law enforcement , prison industry , death industry , pharmaceuticals , etc. , etc. , etc.
13
It is written:
Before one may partake of the sacred smoke, he/she must first defy the profane government
Before one may partake of the sacred smoke, he/she must first defy the profane government
22
Following legalization of cannabis in Colorado, the researchers at Johns Hopkins University studied the results and have reported, "...a significant reduction in opiate addiction and opiate overdose."
35
If it relieves people’s suffering, it’s medicinal and people should have access to it. But it should be prescribed by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacist.
11
Smoke it up...should be legal for anyone. One of the single most destructive laws ever passed. "Legalize it. Don't criticize it. Legalize it and I'll advertise it." Peter Tosh
28
$240/mo for a weed that grows naturally without any care strikes me as more criminal than using the so called addictive drug under which it is controlled.
Of course I am not surprised by our less than enlightened male politicians who also want to control what any woman can do with her own body.
It really is as though we are living in the age of the Inquisition.
Of course I am not surprised by our less than enlightened male politicians who also want to control what any woman can do with her own body.
It really is as though we are living in the age of the Inquisition.
29
Every time an article on marijuana is published, many folks weigh in. Most of the usual suspects show up. "I've been smoking it for fifty years, no problem". The always popular "I became psychologically addicted to it". The, "first time I smoked I felt terrible, paranoid, uneasy. Never again". And my personal favorite, "It made me feel terrible, paranoid, and uneasy, for all twenty years that I smoked it". But the salient point, it seems to me, is that these are not voices from the grave. These people are still alive, because marijuana kills no one. My nephew would probably have some thoughts on the opioid crisis in this country. But he died of an overdose last year, at thirty nine. His prescription for pain from a broken back was perfectly legal.
53
It's amazing to me how many people still say in their old age that they 'did what they were told' all their life? Can't you see how you've been manipulated? By your parents, by your friends, by the media, by society itself?
I know how it is, I feel it too. It's nice to have something to do without thinking about it. It's nice having someone to please, it's a simple life. It's too easy.
But at some point you realize that it's not YOU that is directing your life, it's someone else. You run around satisfying their needs and wants, instead of yours. And we all know, deep down, that we ultimately want to control our lives.
Even if you choose to make someone happy, you should know that it was your choice, not circumstance or because 'everybody else does it'. Love is incredible, when it's pure and from the heart.
Otherwise, your life is a dead end road, until you find how to create your own roadmap to the world.
I know how it is, I feel it too. It's nice to have something to do without thinking about it. It's nice having someone to please, it's a simple life. It's too easy.
But at some point you realize that it's not YOU that is directing your life, it's someone else. You run around satisfying their needs and wants, instead of yours. And we all know, deep down, that we ultimately want to control our lives.
Even if you choose to make someone happy, you should know that it was your choice, not circumstance or because 'everybody else does it'. Love is incredible, when it's pure and from the heart.
Otherwise, your life is a dead end road, until you find how to create your own roadmap to the world.
8
There is no doubt and plenty of evidence that a person could do worse with prescription meds.
14
“There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people,"
The lack of evidence -- one way or the other -- is the fault of the federal government, which despite convincing evidence of some of the medicinal benefits of cannabis continues to classify cannabis as a Schedule I drug. That classification is dishonest and stifles legitimate scientific studies.
The lack of evidence -- one way or the other -- is the fault of the federal government, which despite convincing evidence of some of the medicinal benefits of cannabis continues to classify cannabis as a Schedule I drug. That classification is dishonest and stifles legitimate scientific studies.
21
I don’t understand why this drugs got legalized in almost all U.S, many states first legalized for medical purposes first and now for recreation. However, before they legalized they did not do their homework by requesting research institutions to find out more about the benefits and harms of this drug. So, a campaigns was done with millions from that cartel multi-billionaire Russian George Soros. This guy want legalize every single drugs here in the USA and destroy our families. 15 years ago we declare that smoking was harms and cause of Lang cancer. Why did he go legalize this s... Drug in Russian? Because Putin will put him in prison if he does. So, he is using the US as scape coat experiment to destroy everything, families. This Guy should be stoped before he cause more damages. Pot should be researched and if can be of help to patients then so be it but do not advertise this drugs to our kids ok.
6
If a patient in an assisted living or nursing facility can self medicate with doses of cannabis products (edibles and extracts are discreet- they produce no smoke or residue), that seems preferable to the odd pharmaceutical game played by physicians with mood altering drugs, strong prescription painkillers, and tranquilizers. Cannabis is a very good option that should not be ignored. IMHO the elderly are badly served by a medical profession that medicates to the max without regard or understanding of the inevitable drug interactions and side effects.
15
A very good story except for one clause "While there is no shortage of research on marijuana...". Does anyone believe this? The Feds have been highly restrictive of any studies of the effects of this plant for decades. Basic research has been constrained by restrictions on access to (only one site in the US is allowed to grow and distribute) and by who can undertake such research. For decades these restrictions have frightened many institutions away from even considering studies.
So give me a break! You may be correct in saying that studies among elderly have been particularly limited, but the whole field of cannabis research has suffered from the political vendetta against it.
So give me a break! You may be correct in saying that studies among elderly have been particularly limited, but the whole field of cannabis research has suffered from the political vendetta against it.
12
The author is confused and is confusing us. "Medical marijuana" in New York State isn't marijuana, it is a highly-refined pharmaceutical product with consistent quantities of, and assays for the types of cannabinoid substances in the products taken. If the author was aware of this, we could be informed of what actually each person was prescribed and why. To gloss it over and call it all the same (and consider it the same as the smoked products in say Colorado or California) really misses the point.
11
I have rheumatoid arthritis. I can't do the biologics because I had breast cancer. Once one has ANY type of cancer, biologics are off the table. They can trigger any cancer, once one has shown the propensity for tumor formation, so it isn't a matter of a double masectomy.
Methotrexate cause a liver abscess, and memory issues, for which I was prescribed Adderoll. I immediately noticed an absence of the fatigue, and with small doses of prednisone, had a good quality of life. I could exercise, and do things without the exhaustion. However, the neurologist doesn't consider Adderoll an appropriate drug choice for the fatigue, just the memory, although the rheumatologist thinks it is a good treatment, especially as I take a lower dose.
I've long considered suggesting marijuana as a replacement for the prednisone and the Adderoll, but I don't think the neurologist would be receptive.
When does my quality of life become my decision? What good is a life confined to a recliner?
Methotrexate cause a liver abscess, and memory issues, for which I was prescribed Adderoll. I immediately noticed an absence of the fatigue, and with small doses of prednisone, had a good quality of life. I could exercise, and do things without the exhaustion. However, the neurologist doesn't consider Adderoll an appropriate drug choice for the fatigue, just the memory, although the rheumatologist thinks it is a good treatment, especially as I take a lower dose.
I've long considered suggesting marijuana as a replacement for the prednisone and the Adderoll, but I don't think the neurologist would be receptive.
When does my quality of life become my decision? What good is a life confined to a recliner?
24
I feel for you and your pain. I too suffer from RA, so I understand and can appreciate your situation all too well. My only suggestion, if I could be so bold, would be the following:
Do your homework.
Do your research.
Make a strong and convincing argument to your neurologist.
If you can't convince he or she of your argument, keep looking for one who will be open to your suggestion.
Like you stated in your closing, your quality of life should be YOUR decision.
Good luck Mrs. Cleaver. I sincerely hope you find the relief and answers you are seeking.
14
More irrefutable evidence that pot, basically, is "life enhancing" and the lies we have been fed for 100 years are just that - lies. As the worst mass injustice in America since slavery, with millions of Americans wrongly jailed and/or incriminated, this sad chapter needs to end now. Many states have led the way with legalization, but unfortunately, the Trump regime, so far, looks out of touch with reality on this issue.
Recent Nobel Prize in Literature winner Bob Dylan didn't seem to lose his creativity from pot, and I would argue it was helpful to him. Steve Jobs, one of the greatest industrial innovators in history, seemed to do OK too. The list is endless. Sure, there are people who have problems from it, but they are the minute minority. Compared to the widespread death and social wreckage caused by the legal hard drug alcohol, pot almost looks likes aspirin. End the madness now that is the war on pot and the American people.
Recent Nobel Prize in Literature winner Bob Dylan didn't seem to lose his creativity from pot, and I would argue it was helpful to him. Steve Jobs, one of the greatest industrial innovators in history, seemed to do OK too. The list is endless. Sure, there are people who have problems from it, but they are the minute minority. Compared to the widespread death and social wreckage caused by the legal hard drug alcohol, pot almost looks likes aspirin. End the madness now that is the war on pot and the American people.
28
I presume that any drug will have consequences. The question is always - do the benefits outweigh the problems? I've seen people ruin their lives with pot. I can think of one person it might help keep calm (compared to the rest of the family), but, there might be consequences I don't know about. I grew up with a family that was very involved with it and I was repulsed by it (ironically, I was such a sleepy kid, some people presumed I smoked). Still am. But, not my business what other people do for the most part. I'm for decriminalization for adult personal use (usual reasonable restrictions). Whether that will lead to greater use or if it will hurt us in the long run, I can't say. Hope not, because that's where we are probably going in the long run.
6
Curiously we’ve had an FDA approved/DEA sanctioned 100% THC prescription medication available in all 50 states for over 30 years now since 1985 called Marinol without any of the sordid stories of addiction, brain damage, driving accidents or “we need more research” and “what about the children” mantras etc etc ad infinitum ad nauseam that we are constantly bombarded with when discussing cannabis.
Pretty amazing that we’ve had this dangerous mind altering psychoactive 100% THC Big Pharma drug, Marinol, available for over 30 years in all 50 states without the sky falling.
No sordid sensational media stories of brain damage or IQ drops. No mass road carnage and tractor trailer accidents. No surgeons and nurses killing people in the OR. No babies being born addicted to Marinol. No bus drivers crashing and killing our children. No teachers getting high on Marinol with students. No kids stealing it and going to the ER.
No stories of ruined life plans. No jumping out of windows. No FDA or DEA recalls. None. Nada. Not one story. Anywhere. Ever. Not a peep.
And yet, according to the label patients may drive, operate heavy machinery and do hazardous tasks if they feel comfortable doing so.
Yup. Completely up to the patient. Look it up. Just like allergy pills. Just like lot’s of prescription medications.
Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Pretty amazing that we’ve had this dangerous mind altering psychoactive 100% THC Big Pharma drug, Marinol, available for over 30 years in all 50 states without the sky falling.
No sordid sensational media stories of brain damage or IQ drops. No mass road carnage and tractor trailer accidents. No surgeons and nurses killing people in the OR. No babies being born addicted to Marinol. No bus drivers crashing and killing our children. No teachers getting high on Marinol with students. No kids stealing it and going to the ER.
No stories of ruined life plans. No jumping out of windows. No FDA or DEA recalls. None. Nada. Not one story. Anywhere. Ever. Not a peep.
And yet, according to the label patients may drive, operate heavy machinery and do hazardous tasks if they feel comfortable doing so.
Yup. Completely up to the patient. Look it up. Just like allergy pills. Just like lot’s of prescription medications.
Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
8
You don't get high from CBD (cannabis based) oil. It is ridiculously expensive and It works wonders as a sleep aid and for some it helps with pain. That's it. Nothing to worry about folks.
12
There's nothing wrong with getting high. Just get high responsibly, same as getting drunk in a bar and don't drive under the influence
3
My one regret about the ever thoughtful Mr Obama is that he didn't take cannabis off the Schedule One list.
25
He may not have had the power to do that. He could have ordered federal officers to ignore small quantities of cannabis for personal use.
3
When I first saw the picture from this article I thought the woman was taking a toke from a homemade bong!
12
I think they chose that photo for that purpose.
4
Over 65? Whatever we can do to stay active and pain-free, go for it. Our bodies hurt much worse than the social discomfort of being a druggie.
17
When I smoke, I do things obsessively (that's part of the reason, I thought it made me more productive). Then I realized my pain was largely due to what I was doing, and not because something was wrong with me. Eliminating the weed and living in moderation is the key (still trying to quit).
4
If the government takes away my health insurance, I'm going to get stoned every day. It cures what ails me.
15
I find it quite amusing (actually in a sarcastic, tragic sort of way) that people are fretting about potential side effects of marijuana, yet opiods (which one doctor describe as 'heroin in pill form') managed to get though the FDA and was marketed as 'less addictive' than alternative drugs.
There sure is something wrong when a large drug company can 'game' the system like that.
There sure is something wrong when a large drug company can 'game' the system like that.
25
Conclusion: dear God don't get stuck in a nursing home-- they'll allow you to suffer for your own safety.
26
Not wanting to harm the aged must be tempered with what do the aged have to lose but their pain. All the roadblocks to medical marijuana for the aged are bureaucratic nonsense promulgated by bureaucrats who think they, not the aged, have something to lose. It's simply not therapeutic to prescribe opioids when marijuana often does a better job and you don't need research to tell you what common sense mandates.
14
Among the many things we know about Nixon is that he put LSD and cannabis on Schedule 1 because he hated hippies. Prohibition began years before that because help threatened paper, cloth and petrochemical interests.
Haters, get over yourselves, or pour yourself a martini and leave everyone else alone.
Haters, get over yourselves, or pour yourself a martini and leave everyone else alone.
18
I thought it was the Democratic-controlled Congress that did that?
I will never forget the time I smoked marijuana. I felt like I couldn't breath and thought I was dying. For a period of two hours- I thought about too many weird things and was terrified. All my friends just sat there and laughed. Let me tell you this- If I were dying of a terminal illness the last thing I would want is to be is high on pot. I would lay there and say, "I'm dying," and my friends would answer, "Yes you are" ... my worst nightmare realized.
3
Probably not a good idea for you.
12
Given the choice of a life racked with pain that legally prescribed drugs cannot offer relief or a simple but effective use of medical marijuana it seems like a simple choice. Partake.
19
I have had prescriptions for almost every Migraine drug made by pharmaceutical companies. All have had minor to major side effects and limited effectiveness. I use a high CBD tincture or vape pen and my severe migraines have been reduced by at least 70% I can usually stop a Migraine at the outset. I am 70 . Thank you for this article and I agree more information about the hundreds of types of cannabis needs research and publication
17
It's been enormously helpful for me to treat chronic pain - albeit in a state where using it could put me in prison.
Your questioning it's efficacy in the face of millions of people who are being helped by this medication reminds me of your clueless article several weeks ago in which you found a writer to inveigh against the medical advances in treatment of trauma using LSD. There will always be right-wing conservative scientists who carry water for those who hope to block all legitimate uses of drugs like cannabis and LSD, once widely -used 'recreational' drugs perpetually demonized by our government - which have been proven to have near miraculous medical applications. This has resulted in cannabis remaining largely illegal and kept LSD completely unavailable to the public - although people who've used it responsibly are convinced it's a life-changing and life-enhancing drug.
No one should have to risk prison to use these drugs responsibly for medical reasons.
Call off your tired old ethics. This isn't the 1960s anymore. And the government should stop stepping on and threatening people having access to these drugs that treat illness, trauma, pain and enhance their lives. Nobody should have to go to Burning Man to get LSD.
The government is never going to wake up. Stop criminalizing medications!
Your questioning it's efficacy in the face of millions of people who are being helped by this medication reminds me of your clueless article several weeks ago in which you found a writer to inveigh against the medical advances in treatment of trauma using LSD. There will always be right-wing conservative scientists who carry water for those who hope to block all legitimate uses of drugs like cannabis and LSD, once widely -used 'recreational' drugs perpetually demonized by our government - which have been proven to have near miraculous medical applications. This has resulted in cannabis remaining largely illegal and kept LSD completely unavailable to the public - although people who've used it responsibly are convinced it's a life-changing and life-enhancing drug.
No one should have to risk prison to use these drugs responsibly for medical reasons.
Call off your tired old ethics. This isn't the 1960s anymore. And the government should stop stepping on and threatening people having access to these drugs that treat illness, trauma, pain and enhance their lives. Nobody should have to go to Burning Man to get LSD.
The government is never going to wake up. Stop criminalizing medications!
15
After 50 years, I finally have an excuse for my nightcap toke.
14
“Marijuana" is a long-acting brain poison. It is now being promoted as a harmless panacea, even with color illustrations of its use by a very old (98!) woman.
Those in group facilities for the aged, who are now said to be permitted to purchase and to use, both unsupervised, any form of smoked or edible “marijuana”, cannot be said to be using it at their “own risk.” That risk is shared by the physicians, nurses, and administrators who permit its use as a matter of policy, and will be found, by juries, addressed by the attorneys of their surviving families, to be responsible for all forms of major harm.
These harms will justifiably include cognitive deterioration, psychosis, overdose, and trauma, including lethal hip and skull fractures, and crippling other injuries. They will occur in a large number of the aged population. These harms will, unsuccessfully, be attempted to be covered up, by being claimed, falsely, to be the result of mere “aging,” or ongoing illness.
Any agent, and particularly any and all psychotropic (“mind altering”) drugs, prescribed and administered therapeutically to anyone, at any age, whether for home or for institutional use, must have its ingredients precisely known, its dose individually determined. Its effects must have been properly evaluated, and it must be supervised by a trained, experienced, medical professional.
Arthur Taub MD PhD
Professor and Clinical Professor (ret.) (Yale)
Emeritus, Honorary, Attending Neurology (Yale)
Those in group facilities for the aged, who are now said to be permitted to purchase and to use, both unsupervised, any form of smoked or edible “marijuana”, cannot be said to be using it at their “own risk.” That risk is shared by the physicians, nurses, and administrators who permit its use as a matter of policy, and will be found, by juries, addressed by the attorneys of their surviving families, to be responsible for all forms of major harm.
These harms will justifiably include cognitive deterioration, psychosis, overdose, and trauma, including lethal hip and skull fractures, and crippling other injuries. They will occur in a large number of the aged population. These harms will, unsuccessfully, be attempted to be covered up, by being claimed, falsely, to be the result of mere “aging,” or ongoing illness.
Any agent, and particularly any and all psychotropic (“mind altering”) drugs, prescribed and administered therapeutically to anyone, at any age, whether for home or for institutional use, must have its ingredients precisely known, its dose individually determined. Its effects must have been properly evaluated, and it must be supervised by a trained, experienced, medical professional.
Arthur Taub MD PhD
Professor and Clinical Professor (ret.) (Yale)
Emeritus, Honorary, Attending Neurology (Yale)
6
Wow! What can one say regarding this Mars-like screed!
3
My mother is 91. In great pain. Her pain Doc says he can do nothing more for her. Stop your scary talk. She has little time left.
7
@usmcsharpshot, Dr. Taught is a welcome voice of reason here. Liability is an important factor to consider because falls in senior care facilities are a constant source of costly litigation.
A number of issues and words need clarification as well as questions to be raised. In a health section of the NYT, discussing the medical uses of marijuana, why include “pot” as a term? What are the implications? Would a writer use “downer” for a sleeping medication,or “smack” for an opiate pain medication?The style of this article, as with many, if not most articles about medicinal uses, and pharmacological actions and effects of cannabis- whose use has been documented archaeologically for at least 10,000 years- is that we may not know and understand enough about its actions. That can be said about many medications as well as therapeutic techniques. Very new treatments for types of cancer are an example. There are iatrogenic outcomes for some people for any treatment; low numbers to high numbers. Approximately 90,000 people die from errors in US hospitals annually. Should we close down the hospitals.“Medical marijuana” now, and the “medicinal alcohol” during prohibition,are unscientific, misleading, stakeholder-created labels, and political mantras. One could just as easily create the descriptive label “profit making marijuana!” At issue, if and when the pros and cons listen and hear one another, is whether, for a persons targeted medical condition is this plant’s medicinal action(s), at a given dose, manner of delivery into the person and number of times/day (a) indicated,(b) contraindicated, (c)irrelevant –[time for other more effective treatment] or even (d) harmful.
9
90,000? You need to keep up. It's estimated to be about 400,000 now.
2
My father, when in his 80's, was told he could no longer drink alcohol as it would not mix with his Parkinson's medication. My brother and I got him some marijuana instead, which he tried for the first time and loved. My mother called it "pop".
What stupid laws prevent anyone from using this wonderful herb. Moronic.
What stupid laws prevent anyone from using this wonderful herb. Moronic.
25
Have been drinking fresh cannabis juice daily for several years, virtually all symptoms of Lupus have disappeared. This is not processed (except juice extraction from fresh green plants) and is definitely not psychoactive. If you want to know more please take a look at the video "Juice" on you tube.
7
Somehow there's no problem when physicians prescribe "off-label" use of very well known dangerous pharmaceutical drugs with very well researched, very well documented and very well advertised adverse effects from their intended prescribed use including death in many cases.
Not only is there "not ENOUGH research" about the short, intermediate or long term effects of these "off label" uses there is literally NO research at all. None. As in zero.
That’s why there are referred to as “off label”.
But mention using the oldest, safest, most therapeutic, non-toxic, natural substance known to mankind with a several thousand year verifiable, well documented history of medical use all over the world without any serious adverse effects and watch these same physicians suddenly get a case of the vapors and start to writhe and squirm and guffaw and pishaw at the very thought of it!
From 1850 to 1942, nearly 50% of all US Patent medicines contained concentrated cannabis tincture and was sold all over America by companies like Bayer, Johnson & Johnson and Merck, and prescribed as the primary medication by physicians everywhere for over several hundred illnesses and conditions.
Not only is there "not ENOUGH research" about the short, intermediate or long term effects of these "off label" uses there is literally NO research at all. None. As in zero.
That’s why there are referred to as “off label”.
But mention using the oldest, safest, most therapeutic, non-toxic, natural substance known to mankind with a several thousand year verifiable, well documented history of medical use all over the world without any serious adverse effects and watch these same physicians suddenly get a case of the vapors and start to writhe and squirm and guffaw and pishaw at the very thought of it!
From 1850 to 1942, nearly 50% of all US Patent medicines contained concentrated cannabis tincture and was sold all over America by companies like Bayer, Johnson & Johnson and Merck, and prescribed as the primary medication by physicians everywhere for over several hundred illnesses and conditions.
9
The government has no business telling any adult whether they can or cannot use marijuana, whether for medical or recreational reasons.
Legalize pot, slap on a federal excise tax, use the proceeds to help replace Obamacare with Medicare for everyone and then say, with a straight face, that we won't be better off as a nation when it comes to health care.
Legalize pot, slap on a federal excise tax, use the proceeds to help replace Obamacare with Medicare for everyone and then say, with a straight face, that we won't be better off as a nation when it comes to health care.
23
Tax slapping won't work.
If there were a tax on say, tomatoes, folks would obtain them "off grid."
Likewise w/ cannabis.
If there were a tax on say, tomatoes, folks would obtain them "off grid."
Likewise w/ cannabis.
Where I live pot is legal with a recommendation card. Technically, it's for medical use, but anyone can buy a "prescription" (recommendation) with a simple look-see examination (i.e., you are alive and have money to pay). I am all for legalizing, regulating and taxing pot, but it's disingenuous (and potentially dangerous) to do it under the the guise of medicine when there is no uniformly accepted, reliable data available on its effectiveness for specific health issues, tested dosages, and cannabis-strain-specific recommended pairings with ailments. There is plenty of general advice and anecdotal information around, but who do I believe? I looked into it for treating migraine, muscle spasms and spinal/nerve issues, and got such contradictory advice that I gave up. I decided to with my prescribed pharmaceutical (which costs $7.50 per refill, by the way).
I'm glad to read that cannabis provides relief for the elderly. But anything administered (or taken privately) in a care facility should be fully above board-- noted, monitored, well researched.
I'm glad to read that cannabis provides relief for the elderly. But anything administered (or taken privately) in a care facility should be fully above board-- noted, monitored, well researched.
1
How many elderly/disabled persons take psychotropic medications of any kind? What are the side effect profiles of those drugs? Do they make patients groggy, more likely to fall?
Until we compare these medications scientifically, and see the benefit/risk for each one, articles of this type provide more questions than answers for physicians seeking evidence-based treatments. My hunch is that cannabis is safer, but could we please move it off Schedule I and get some good data?
Until we compare these medications scientifically, and see the benefit/risk for each one, articles of this type provide more questions than answers for physicians seeking evidence-based treatments. My hunch is that cannabis is safer, but could we please move it off Schedule I and get some good data?
11
The prohibition of cannabis has always been nothing other than tragic. I'm 68 and I've ingested it in small amounts nearly every day of my life for the last 50 years. I enjoy a successful, long term marriage and have two daughters. Both are graduates of selective colleges. One works in the computer sciences and one is about to graduate from medical school. Neither has a tattoo.
I worked successfully as a special education teacher for 32 years and I continue to work as a substitute after retirement because I like going to work and I wish to give something back to my beleaguered profession. And, living in Oklahoma as I do, I wouldn't dare reveal my indentity. I suspect that even now, many people who know and respect me might think they had me wrong rather than their prejudice against this mainly beneficial substance.
I worked successfully as a special education teacher for 32 years and I continue to work as a substitute after retirement because I like going to work and I wish to give something back to my beleaguered profession. And, living in Oklahoma as I do, I wouldn't dare reveal my indentity. I suspect that even now, many people who know and respect me might think they had me wrong rather than their prejudice against this mainly beneficial substance.
32
"Neither has a tattoo."
;) Love it.
;) Love it.
17
My story is the same as yours except that I have 5 brilliant and accomplished daughters, all of whom went to top tier universities. Among them, they have 3 Master's, one MD, and one J.D.; one other is still in college. Pot did not prevent me from getting an MSc. and PhD from top research universities, and having a 'highly' productive career.
I never smoke during the day, but a hit or two late at night helps me sleep and makes Netflix almost worth watching.
I never smoke during the day, but a hit or two late at night helps me sleep and makes Netflix almost worth watching.
22
Ms. Hu: A very interesting article, given the fed vs. state laws about possession, use.
However, nowhere in your article did you address how the components of cannabis are separated and being used. CBD alone, or with some amount of THC, are bringing relief to many people, without the risks of prescription medication and addiction - and without the psychoactive effects of THC alone.
Most people (your readers) have no idea there are combinations of marijuana components and I fear that the same uninformed readers of your article think seniors are getting stoned, rather than relief from their daily pain.
Including some of the recent studies on CBD/THC would have gone a long way to enlighten readers about the revolution underway to bring cannabis into greater and very effecitive use for medical purposes.
https://www.projectcbd.org/
However, nowhere in your article did you address how the components of cannabis are separated and being used. CBD alone, or with some amount of THC, are bringing relief to many people, without the risks of prescription medication and addiction - and without the psychoactive effects of THC alone.
Most people (your readers) have no idea there are combinations of marijuana components and I fear that the same uninformed readers of your article think seniors are getting stoned, rather than relief from their daily pain.
Including some of the recent studies on CBD/THC would have gone a long way to enlighten readers about the revolution underway to bring cannabis into greater and very effecitive use for medical purposes.
https://www.projectcbd.org/
14
"...taking her medicinal marijuana with vitamin water..."
"...a green pill filled with cannabis oil..."
"...a murky brown tea."
"...an array of marijuana tincture, capsules and vaporizer cartridges."
"...residents started taking marijuana pills."
at least it is not smoke and tar inhaled into the lungs, although the digestive tract (as well as the nervous system) might now experience side effects. not only is the drug important, but how it is administered.
see also, nicotine vaporizers.
"...a green pill filled with cannabis oil..."
"...a murky brown tea."
"...an array of marijuana tincture, capsules and vaporizer cartridges."
"...residents started taking marijuana pills."
at least it is not smoke and tar inhaled into the lungs, although the digestive tract (as well as the nervous system) might now experience side effects. not only is the drug important, but how it is administered.
see also, nicotine vaporizers.
4
Is this another one of those marvelous substances researched and dosed out for men that affects women entirely differently? Most of the elderly are women. Even money that pot is no help for them.
Blue State, My wife has stage 4 liver cancer and has been in and out of IV chemo treatment for years. If it were not for the helpful effects of cannabis she would not be able to tolerate the major harmful effects of chemo. She has used it for three years now ( at our daughters urging ), and it has added to her quality of life. When you are entering the late stages of a terminal illness isn't a little quality of life a good thing? Cannabis works just fine for women as well as men, although I don't use it.
19
I am using an oil concentrate I have made by lightly cooking some flower into coconut oil for some chronic knee pain. It works better than any other topical I have used. WOW!
16
Concerns about the effectiveness and safety of medical marijuana? Start paying more attention to those commercials for drugs when they (hurriedly) go through the list of side effects (often the very effect the drug supposedly treats...and my very favorite: risk of death).
30
Since when is "euphoria" an adverse effect?
Absolutely ridiculous.
Ever notice it's only discussed and described as some sort of a mysterious negative when talking about cannabis?
Absolutely ridiculous.
Ever notice it's only discussed and described as some sort of a mysterious negative when talking about cannabis?
14
One of the many ways our government is especially cruel to people in pain, with their self-righteous attitudes to abortion, birth control and now marijuana. It's especially cruel to the elderly, just as many nursing homes and hospitals deny them treats because "it's not good for you" or "it'll spoil your appetite." And doctors have no qualms about imposing invasive, painful tests and treatments on the over-70 set.
When you turn 70 you usually get excused from jury duty, and should be allowed to do whatever you want, with access to a cyanide pill if things get too terrible.
When you turn 70 you usually get excused from jury duty, and should be allowed to do whatever you want, with access to a cyanide pill if things get too terrible.
15
This is my retirement plan.
16
Maybe the real problem is that the pharmaceutical industry can't get the corner on this market so their only recourse is to buy politicians to keep it illegal. Opioids, they own, which is why it's okay for so many to be junkies, so long as they pay for the privilege to big pharma.
20
The Hebrew Home is a pioneer - and has the support for pursuing new ideas. And the women mentioned can afford to buy their pot. It strikes me as incredibly cruel that others in similar straits - except for being in smaller, not well endowed nursing homes, and in having spent down all of their funds, would not be allowed to try such a simple alternative, and possibly could not afford to purchase this. There is also an unanswered question I have: many people in nursing homes need help to access their meds - is that assistance given when the medicine isn't "official?"
I don't expect pot to be a panacea but those who worry about its bad effects on the old old should review the side effects of a typical list of meds being administered. Many can cause dehydration, disorientation, dizziness, constipation, sleepiness, sleeplessness, anorexia, and more, and are routinely administered without hesitation. It's time to stop pretending that this should be a schedule 1 drug and make room for experimentation, formal and otherwise.
I don't expect pot to be a panacea but those who worry about its bad effects on the old old should review the side effects of a typical list of meds being administered. Many can cause dehydration, disorientation, dizziness, constipation, sleepiness, sleeplessness, anorexia, and more, and are routinely administered without hesitation. It's time to stop pretending that this should be a schedule 1 drug and make room for experimentation, formal and otherwise.
16
I smoked pot infrequently in my youth and have always been in favor of total legalization. Now, as old age and diabetes takes its toll on my muscles and joints I wish it were available to me.
21
When my dad was dying of cancer, he was in terrible pain and the prescribed pain medication made him nauseous. I went downtown and scored him some pot, which he smoked each day until he died six weeks later. In these last days, he was comfortable, calm and at the end, he simply floated away.
30
I don't know why anyone would object to senior citizens smoking a little weed to overcome their daily aches 'n pains or the distress in their day-to-day lives.
After all, its use seems to have helped this demographic rationalize their vote for Trump especially in the rust belt states.
After all, its use seems to have helped this demographic rationalize their vote for Trump especially in the rust belt states.
8
People who live in Texas shouldn't throw stones.
2
Dr. Thomas Strouse is completely clueless when it comes to the palliative advantages of using Medical Marijuana for pain relief.
I'm in my 70's, and have used regular and medical marijuana for pain relief following 5 major surgeries, so and I know what I'm talking about.
I'm in my 70's, and have used regular and medical marijuana for pain relief following 5 major surgeries, so and I know what I'm talking about.
21
How many people have lived their last days in misery because we deny them this proven mana from Earth? Enough of the over-thinking too cautious attitude of some people. My late wife died of stomach cancer and when I found out that her unrelenting nausea was caused by the morphine prescribed by doctors at the behest of the greedy uncaring drug companies I immediately switched to marijuana. The nausea ended and my beautiful amazing Kay lived and died in the dignity that were the essence of the extraordinary woman she always was.
44
Most people of my generation (baby boomers) tried it in college and understand that the stigma attached to it is irrational, overblown hysteria. Consequently, we're willing to accept it an older age. Since my parents generation had zero experience with it they think it's akin to taking LSD. My mother has just turned 90 and on more than one occasion I've suggested she try it to help relieve her laundry list of aches and pains. She's having none of it. That won't be me. By the time my child hits her 70's it will be the norm.
Unfortunately, the thing that will drive access is money, not heath care considerations. The tax benefits ($135 million in Colorado in 2015 alone) is/will be too much for cash strapped states to pass up. One by one, like gambling, they will legalize it when they see their citizens crossing state borders to buy it.
Unfortunately, the thing that will drive access is money, not heath care considerations. The tax benefits ($135 million in Colorado in 2015 alone) is/will be too much for cash strapped states to pass up. One by one, like gambling, they will legalize it when they see their citizens crossing state borders to buy it.
48
The medical community increasingly says to "suck it up." Back pain will just go away,,,maybe. Chronic pain is something you need to live with. What does the medical community expect? If Dr's refuse to address pain and suffering as a real issue, patients will turn to their own solutions. MJ is just one of those. I fear we will also see a great increase in the use of alcohol as a pain reliever. No one will live in pain if they can find a remedy on their own.
12
The only reason pot use is questioned is because it cuts into big pharmas profits. It's been used for millenia and when compared to most modern pain relieving medicines such as opiods it has a proven record of far fewer side effects and overall negative outcomes.
23
There are four remaining patients in the US Federal Govt - run Compassionate Investigational New Drug Program started in the 1970’s who have been receiving 360 pre-rolled cannabis cigarettes every month now for over 30 years from the only federally sanctioned cannabis farm at the U. of Mississippi with out any serious adverse effects.
One of the patients, Irv Rosenfeld - a 67 year old stock broker from Florida - wrote a book, “My Medicine”, about his experience of being bone tumor free for over 30 years after being diagnosed with a rare lethal bone disease.
Here’s the study documenting their experiences, results and recommendations:
“Chronic Cannabis Use in the Compassionate Investigational New Drug Program:
An Examination of Benefits and Adverse Effects of Legal Clinical Cannabis”. 2001
Ethan Russo, Mary Lynn Mathre, Al Byrne, Robert Velin, Paul J. Bach, Juan Sanchez-Ramos,
Kristin A. Kirlin
One of the patients, Irv Rosenfeld - a 67 year old stock broker from Florida - wrote a book, “My Medicine”, about his experience of being bone tumor free for over 30 years after being diagnosed with a rare lethal bone disease.
Here’s the study documenting their experiences, results and recommendations:
“Chronic Cannabis Use in the Compassionate Investigational New Drug Program:
An Examination of Benefits and Adverse Effects of Legal Clinical Cannabis”. 2001
Ethan Russo, Mary Lynn Mathre, Al Byrne, Robert Velin, Paul J. Bach, Juan Sanchez-Ramos,
Kristin A. Kirlin
16
This country could use a lot more Dudes and a lot less Lebowskis. This aggression will not stand, man.
12
I've always thought it ironic that the beer barons -- the Strohs, the Coors, the Busch's -- were and in some cases still are socialites in their respective communities despite how many people their wares kill. But some poor slob who sells a couple pounds of weed is a criminal.
The more acceptable marijuana becomes, the better off we will be as a society. And I say that as someone who has no interest in getting high. (Though give me another month of the tRump presidency and I may be rolling them up like a pro.)
The more acceptable marijuana becomes, the better off we will be as a society. And I say that as someone who has no interest in getting high. (Though give me another month of the tRump presidency and I may be rolling them up like a pro.)
19
"While there is no shortage of research on marijuana". Wrong! There is a serious shortage of good research. That's why there are so many open questions and so much of what people "know" about medical mj is based on unsupported claims and rumors.
5
Respectfully, hogwash! Google "Granny Storm Crow's List and see how wrong you are.
US taxpayers have been funding the most advanced cannabis research in the world for over 40 years through NIH grants of $150,000 a year for over 40 years to Israeli scientist and the father of modern cannabis research Raphael Mechuolam .
As a direct result in Israel cannabis is treated as medicine and is smoked vaporized ingested and injected in Israeli hospitals administered by licensed medical professionals and is available in pharmacies in raw flower form, concentrates and edibles.
US taxpayers have been funding the most advanced cannabis research in the world for over 40 years through NIH grants of $150,000 a year for over 40 years to Israeli scientist and the father of modern cannabis research Raphael Mechuolam .
As a direct result in Israel cannabis is treated as medicine and is smoked vaporized ingested and injected in Israeli hospitals administered by licensed medical professionals and is available in pharmacies in raw flower form, concentrates and edibles.
1
There is still no question that it is extremely difficult to do research here, in this country, because of its classification as a Schedule 1 substance. If we're sending money so the Israeli's can do it, that's great, but I'd rather we finance our own researchers.
2
Dude, the fact there has been some research somewhere doesn't mean there has been enough good quality research, unless you have low standards for medical evidence (hint: 99% of mj blogs about health and medicine are not discussing evidence, they are echo chambers for rumor and fantasy). IMO the work of rather few actual researchers (like Mechuolam in the biochemical realm) has not been enough to feel satisfied. If we put aside the long term research that is primarily sociological (like estimates how many teens smoked in the previous month to see if propaganda efforts are effective or not), we are left with only a relative smattering of clinical evidence that shows if/how/which compounds and dosages are more effective than placebo for any particular ailment. One reason for the dearth research in the US has been simply the restricted access to permits to conduct mj trials. And, btw, $150,000/yr is a pittance when it comes to research dollars!
1
Cannabis-virtually no counter indications.
Pharmaceuticals-loads and loads of counter indications
You be the judge
Pharmaceuticals-loads and loads of counter indications
You be the judge
25
Where I live in NW WA the local legal pot store counts many seniors as its best customers. Old ladies in Blaine calm their dementia-enraged husbands with cannabis-infused breath strips. Nothing else works. The store is 1 mi. from the Canadian border so the Border Patrol, DEA, and city and county cops all had to sign off on it. They did and there have been absolutely no problems. Pot is nothing but good for seniors.
25
Lack of controlled medical studies is certainly an issue with getting marijuana to be accepted by doctors as a legitimate form of medication. But there is real-life evidence of the safety of marijuana consumption: the Baby Boomers and every generation that came after. Millions of American smoke marijuana recreationally, some even do it every day, and many have done so for decades. Unlike alcohol, it's not physically addictive and has no known toxic overdose. A small percentage of users become psychologically addicted to the point at which it interferes with their daily lives. And it can have a negative effect on teens who start smoking too young. But millions of Americans use it to relax after a long day of work, to ease chronic muscular pain, to enhance a Saturday night streaming movie, and to aid sleep. Most users are secretive about breaking the law, but all of us, whether we know it our not, have friends, family, or acquaintances who use marijuana. The fact that we don't see widespread death and disease caused by the world's most popular illegal drug, as we do with tobacco and alcohol and prescription pills and most narcotics, should be evidence enough to open the doors for further medical research. At the very least, we need to stop stigmatizing people who prefer to relax with a non-addictive plant substance, the usage of which incurs very little damage to the individual or to society.
64
Rule No. 1: "do no harm."
Many older Americans are taking 10 meds a day. Add another one, which is not well-researched?
Gee, what could wrong? Oh .. about a zillion things, that all ..
Many older Americans are taking 10 meds a day. Add another one, which is not well-researched?
Gee, what could wrong? Oh .. about a zillion things, that all ..
3
No safety with American Lung Assn demonstrating scientific proof to the contrary that pot is dangerous!!!
1
Cannabis derivatives, such as oils, capsules, tinctures, or nebulizers that have high CBD content, but negligible THC are a great idea. They are medicine and have proven benefits. No need to get high from medication. I have health care power of attorney for my relatively young husband in long-term care because of frontotemporal degeneration (dementia). I'd never approve any form of legal cannabis with high THC content for him if it became legal. Not necessary.
Questions about effectiveness? WHO CARES. If you're 80, and it helps with the aches and pains, say yes. Why be miserable when you can relieve pain and stress easily and effectively with few to no side affects? Only big pharma is worried.
16
Why is there even a stigma about the psychoactive elements of some of the marijuana medical products available. Who cares if an elderly person 'cops a buzz' at an assisted living facility. They give out handfuls of meds, which most, if not all, have some side-effect, to these folks. Here's 2 legal drugs with no stigma attached that any adult can access almost anywhere: tobacco and alcohol. You can even 'cop a buzz' by eating a pint of Hagan-Daz, no stigma attached to that, is there? Getting high is a drive inherent in the species. Some meditate to do it, some exercise, some play pool with their friends and quaff a brewski.
5
The trouble with having marijuana in a nursing home is that everyone steals, including the staff. Old people wander from room to room taking stuff and you certainly can't expect underpaid, overworked nurses and nurse assistants to pass up some weed if they see it.
All this discussion about pain relief is well and good but many old people will want marijuana for its intended purpose, to get high so that they can tolerate the conditions of living in a nursing home.
All this discussion about pain relief is well and good but many old people will want marijuana for its intended purpose, to get high so that they can tolerate the conditions of living in a nursing home.
1
The freedom to acquire and use cannabis products needs to be the standard in all states. In addition, more studies must be done (and are underway here in CO) on use by all age groups.
The advent of legal cannabis has led me to high CBD strains that help me manage pain from old injuries, digestive issues, menopausal symptoms, etc., without the effects of THC (which also has its time and place). Certainly our elders should not be demonized for using cannabis, though it would be great if their medical professionals would recognize its benefits.
The advent of legal cannabis has led me to high CBD strains that help me manage pain from old injuries, digestive issues, menopausal symptoms, etc., without the effects of THC (which also has its time and place). Certainly our elders should not be demonized for using cannabis, though it would be great if their medical professionals would recognize its benefits.
5
Does the author not understand the difference between THC and CBD?
Why does there continue to be misinformation and prejudice about canabis and it's use?
Why does there continue to be misinformation and prejudice about canabis and it's use?
8
The notion that there is anything wrong with marijuana has been a government created myth. The real drug problem in this country is alcohol but because of the strong alcohol lobby this does not get addressed. A recent scientific study claims that the cost of alcohol use/abuse is greater than drug use/abuse. The longer we tell people marijuana is bad for you the more young kids want to get their hands on it. Marijuana should be legalized nationally and controlled meaning you need to be 18 years of age. If marijuana was legal we would not have as many people getting involved in opioids. Many states have legalized recreational marijuana with few problems. People need to be responsible when using any substance. In the late 1960's a survey of high school students in New Hampshire indicated that the big problem was alcohol and drinking. The students said, 'if my parents can down a six pack of beer why can't I smoke a joint'
14
Like many things, cannabis is wasted on the young. I think it can have some deleterious effects on brain development in adolescence. Though it is not in any way harmful in adults, it can lessen ones energy and focus. As one ages -- especially beyond 55 or 60, cannabis is far superior to and far safer than most pharmaceuticals for pain relief, anxiety, and as an anti-inflammatory.
Once legalized, varieties with higher CBD content can be developed. As with most plants, isolating parts reduces overall benefit. This plant has been used without problem for well over 5,000 years and studied more than any other. It is past time to abolish this harmful prohibition.
Once legalized, varieties with higher CBD content can be developed. As with most plants, isolating parts reduces overall benefit. This plant has been used without problem for well over 5,000 years and studied more than any other. It is past time to abolish this harmful prohibition.
11
The medical profession is leery of giving marijuana, but they'll write
you a prescription for synthetic heroin. Geez!
Smoke 'em (or other means) if you got 'em!
you a prescription for synthetic heroin. Geez!
Smoke 'em (or other means) if you got 'em!
16
As a medical marijuana industry consultant with an MIT education, I can say unequivocally that cannabis is a good thing for all age groups, especially older people.
Today, almost 1 out of every 2 old persons in a nursing home is prescribed some sort of benzodiazapene or hypnotic sleep aid. Despite recommendations saying that benzos should not be taken for more than a few weeks, many older people are on them for years.
If you are older and have taken benzos for more than 6 months, you are 84% more likely to develope alzheimers disease! Not many people know this, but essentially we are driving people towards early deaths by AD by cramming them full of benzos.
Cannabis can replace both benzos and hypnotic sleep aides, and there is no proven link between cannabis and AD (needs more study though, as do all medications). Cannabis can help older people who are in pain to not become opiate addicts as well. It can help older people with cancer eat more and therefore fight the cancer better using better nutrition.
Cannabis is a powerful, non-physically addictive, natural and simple medication that I have watched save lives over the 5 years I have worked in the industry. We need to get over our old prejudices that were instilled into us by Big Pharma companies (and oddly enough, paper companies); prejudices that were not based on any objective reality but rather were created so that Big Phama and paper companies could make more money by illegalizing hemp and marijuana medicine.
Today, almost 1 out of every 2 old persons in a nursing home is prescribed some sort of benzodiazapene or hypnotic sleep aid. Despite recommendations saying that benzos should not be taken for more than a few weeks, many older people are on them for years.
If you are older and have taken benzos for more than 6 months, you are 84% more likely to develope alzheimers disease! Not many people know this, but essentially we are driving people towards early deaths by AD by cramming them full of benzos.
Cannabis can replace both benzos and hypnotic sleep aides, and there is no proven link between cannabis and AD (needs more study though, as do all medications). Cannabis can help older people who are in pain to not become opiate addicts as well. It can help older people with cancer eat more and therefore fight the cancer better using better nutrition.
Cannabis is a powerful, non-physically addictive, natural and simple medication that I have watched save lives over the 5 years I have worked in the industry. We need to get over our old prejudices that were instilled into us by Big Pharma companies (and oddly enough, paper companies); prejudices that were not based on any objective reality but rather were created so that Big Phama and paper companies could make more money by illegalizing hemp and marijuana medicine.
19
Nice that you identify your interest in industry promotion, but it doesn't change the facts: numerous well-regarded, peer-reviewed studies of young adults have found frequent marijuana use to be associated with elevated rates of psychosis and permanently impaired memory and judgment. We don't have the data yet on effects on the elderly, but a hallucinogen linked to memory loss is probably not a good idea for the vulnerable. The article doesn't say how it has "helped" people with dementia; I'd be amazed if improved memory holds up.
1
If it were legal, as it should be, this would not be news.
10
With the elderly facing real risks such as alchoholism, opiate dependence, and tobacco addiction, I can't for the life of me figure out why we're still getting hysterical over a mild intoxicant that everybody and his brother has used.
40
I can't think of a better way to glide through my remaining years than on a nebulous cloud of feeling good.
"marijuana could possibly make them confused, dizzy or more likely to fall". News flash for those who haven't visited a loved one in a nursing home - a large percentage of them already feel confused, are dizzy and are likely to fall which are some of the reasons why they were admitted to begin with.
187
Marge has hit the nail right on the head. Easily the best thing I have seen on the internet today.
5
And it would be preferable to spend their remaining years in constant pain?
Those symptoms you list are also side effects of opiate pain relievers.
Those symptoms you list are also side effects of opiate pain relievers.
3
Phil - I am IN FAVOR of medical marijuana for seniors (like me).
2
It’s an interesting subject about seniors people taking cannabis for medical conditions. Yes, side affects which could possibly have negative affects can be an issue as all drugs can be . Every medication has it’s risks but if a person chooses to live without miserable pain, and understands the risks I completely support that. I wonder how the insurance companies will deal with nursing homes as it still is federally illegal. The photo shows a safe as though it’s unusual. It’s very usual. I need to take a small amount of opiates due to my failed spinal fusion. In my state cannabis is legal but doesn’t work for me. I am regularly tested for drugs by my HMO. I sign an agreement with the federal government and my HMO and keeping my medication in a lock box is part of the agreement in the form I sign. I also would think purchasing organically grown marijuana is important. With marijuana becoming big business growers who do not grow organically can use carcinogens just as fruit and vegetables can.
As for the stigma, I think that is slowly changing. Remember when cocktail parties were the big thing? This makes me think of the cartoon that showed the medicinal cabinet alongside with another cabinet next to it with the label “Side affects”.
As for the stigma, I think that is slowly changing. Remember when cocktail parties were the big thing? This makes me think of the cartoon that showed the medicinal cabinet alongside with another cabinet next to it with the label “Side affects”.
6
It is irresponsible of this article on medical marijuana to use a misleading quote from Dr. Thomas Strouse saying “There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people, and some reason that it could be harmful,” when he offers no evidence of risk other than his speculation that it could lead to confusion, dizziness, and falls. In fact, the article says there is little research on its use in older people.
Here are two articles by Dr. Strouse which note the value of pot use to alleviate pain and reduce opioid deaths. They suggest some risks for younger people but do not mention older adults.
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/articles/2016-10-12/...
http://theweek.com/articles/667066/need-talk-about-medical-marijuana
While it’s possible there may actually be some risks for seniors, it’s too bad that after reading an article that purports to weigh benefits and risks, readers are left to research risks on their own.
Here are two articles by Dr. Strouse which note the value of pot use to alleviate pain and reduce opioid deaths. They suggest some risks for younger people but do not mention older adults.
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/articles/2016-10-12/...
http://theweek.com/articles/667066/need-talk-about-medical-marijuana
While it’s possible there may actually be some risks for seniors, it’s too bad that after reading an article that purports to weigh benefits and risks, readers are left to research risks on their own.
16
Are the naysayers worried that using pot might mean an early death for a 98-year-old?
66
Whatever happens, we must not ever, ever, EVER allow the participate to GET HIGH!!
10
What's wrong with these lovely people getting high? Get over it!
51
The pills cost $240/month, when an 1/2 ounce of medical grade cannabis costs 130/month. I can't imagine the cost if Takeda or some other money-grabbing pharmaceutical was able to buy the patent on it.
4
The New York Times has been the official publication of the Nanny State for a long time.
Sad to see it also becoming the official publication of Big Pharma as well.
Sad to see it also becoming the official publication of Big Pharma as well.
2
The NYTimes is hardly a supporter of pharmaceutical companies. ( I refuse to say "Big Pharma", which is a term used by righteous anti-med hysterics in order to close a discussion before it begins)
If you had been paying attention, you would have noticed that the overwhelming majority of NYTimes health articles in recent years have more or less decreed 'no medication for anyone, for any reason,' usually accompanied by an anti "Big Parma" screed.
The NYTimes and its likeminded "opinion makers" have cost god knows how many people a better quality of life because of its influence over dullards who are always influenced by fear rather than science.
They will indeed eventually zero in on pot as well - never mind the continually growing evidence, both scientific and anecdotal, that the stuff works.
If you had been paying attention, you would have noticed that the overwhelming majority of NYTimes health articles in recent years have more or less decreed 'no medication for anyone, for any reason,' usually accompanied by an anti "Big Parma" screed.
The NYTimes and its likeminded "opinion makers" have cost god knows how many people a better quality of life because of its influence over dullards who are always influenced by fear rather than science.
They will indeed eventually zero in on pot as well - never mind the continually growing evidence, both scientific and anecdotal, that the stuff works.
We better be concerned with how to raise our children properly instead of giving advice to elderly people.
Edgar Allan Poe became an alcoholic because his nurse pacified him with spirits when he was an infant:
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/33930
Now we are drugging them with TV and Cell phones. I worry what they will become later.
Let elderly decide themselves how to enjoy their lives!
Edgar Allan Poe became an alcoholic because his nurse pacified him with spirits when he was an infant:
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/33930
Now we are drugging them with TV and Cell phones. I worry what they will become later.
Let elderly decide themselves how to enjoy their lives!
5
Get ready lady, the Feds are coming to pay you a visit.
Hope you like prison orange.
Hope you like prison orange.
5
Wait a few years. By then the righteous prigs at the NYTimes will be hysterically
clamoring that "too many" people are using medical pot and castigating doctors for "overprescribing' it.
But maybe not. It's like, an herb, so it's like... natural. So maybe they will be like, 'It's cool, man.'
clamoring that "too many" people are using medical pot and castigating doctors for "overprescribing' it.
But maybe not. It's like, an herb, so it's like... natural. So maybe they will be like, 'It's cool, man.'
2
Remember, God 'Intelligently Designed' marijuana for a reason.
Or are you suggesting God made a mistake?
Or are you suggesting God made a mistake?
5
No one in Albany considers people with lung diseases, who not only need to kept free of cigarette smoke but also marijuana. If the formulation for seriously ill patients include non-vapor products, fine, but the decriminalization of this dirty odorous drug has increased my asthma attacks just walking on NYC streets because of lax State/City laws.
How unfair is permitting this recreational drug to be smoked in public ignoring respiratory diseases? Cuomo and DeBlasio are the worst politicians to destroy NYC, closing LICH hospital in Brooklyn, over building neighborhoods, ignoring dangerous subway infrastructure and now marijuana.
How unfair is permitting this recreational drug to be smoked in public ignoring respiratory diseases? Cuomo and DeBlasio are the worst politicians to destroy NYC, closing LICH hospital in Brooklyn, over building neighborhoods, ignoring dangerous subway infrastructure and now marijuana.
1
These articles are annoying. Marijuana is not addictive at all, not "less addictive" than pharma drugs. And I'm guessing that if one of these folks gets too much marijuana the first time, they might not be able to focus on Bingo that afternoon, but there is zero chance they might die from it or have any other lingering effects. Tomorrow they can just go with a little less.
19
People in a nursing home are in the process of dying, so it is utterly irrelevant whether they become addicted to opioids, marijuana, or anything else, including prune Danish. As long as it works, they want it, and it doesn't harm anyone else in the home, they should have it.
12
Of course pot is good.
The religious right says it's not and those clowns are wrong about EVERYYHING!
The religious right says it's not and those clowns are wrong about EVERYYHING!
31
Amen and pass the bong!
3
It should be noted that traditional Mexican culture used tincture of marijuana for the pains of old age while forbidding it to youth.
It was used as a rub for arthritis as well as for it's well-known 'munchies' effect.
We seem doomed to discover old remedies as though they are triuuly new.
It was used as a rub for arthritis as well as for it's well-known 'munchies' effect.
We seem doomed to discover old remedies as though they are triuuly new.
25
My God Intelligently Designed marijuana for a reason.
It is for his beloved creation.
It is good for all sorts of maladies and makes you laugh.
Sounds to me exactly like the kind of natural cure an all loving all forgiving god would design.
Now opioids, on the other hand, sound exactly like something designed by Satan.
They help, initially, then you develop resistance and have to up the dosage to get the same benefit and before you know it, you're Gary Busey and you are broke.
Oh yeah, you can grow your own pot.
Try growing your own methadone or codeine just be careful not to OD.
Oh yeah, and not one person has ever died from a pot overdose.
It is for his beloved creation.
It is good for all sorts of maladies and makes you laugh.
Sounds to me exactly like the kind of natural cure an all loving all forgiving god would design.
Now opioids, on the other hand, sound exactly like something designed by Satan.
They help, initially, then you develop resistance and have to up the dosage to get the same benefit and before you know it, you're Gary Busey and you are broke.
Oh yeah, you can grow your own pot.
Try growing your own methadone or codeine just be careful not to OD.
Oh yeah, and not one person has ever died from a pot overdose.
19
AMEN!
2
Now that the medical profession has effectively abandoned people in pain, I would imagine more and more people will be turning to marijuana, so I hope it really is effective. To ensure access in the event the medical profession goes into a panic over that drug also, people should consider growing it themselves now so they'll have some recourse in the event they develop a painful disease or condition. Having to worry about obtaining and paying for it is the last thing someone needs when they become ill.
1
Alcohol is a drug.....an over the counter drug actually. It is used for recreation but it is also used as a pharmaceutical to carry other drugs. It is the basis for flavoring in food. It has been the subject of an enormous amount of research. It is legal.
Marijuana is used for the same purposes as alcohol. It is illegal. Because it is illegal research has been limited in this country. This needs to change.
I am planning to buy some form of cannabis next year when it can be sold over the counter in my state. I am opting for the lollipops since I do not smoke. I need to replace the OTC arthritis pills I have been on for years. They are no longer effective. There are side effects. I will be conducting my own research.
Marijuana is used for the same purposes as alcohol. It is illegal. Because it is illegal research has been limited in this country. This needs to change.
I am planning to buy some form of cannabis next year when it can be sold over the counter in my state. I am opting for the lollipops since I do not smoke. I need to replace the OTC arthritis pills I have been on for years. They are no longer effective. There are side effects. I will be conducting my own research.
6
It is little wonder that the medical community is skeptical of medical marijuana, they have no skin in the game, meaning they can't make any money off of it. If it ever becomes federally legal and big pharma and our for profit medical industry gets their hands on it they'll be prescribing it like jelly beans. In the meantime we have to bow to the 250 billion dollar pill industry shoving all these lab produced chemicals down our throat. and if that doesn't kill us the commercials for all that crap will make you jump out a window.
5
This is going to need more research, research which right now is difficult to do. A few facts: marijuana diminishes the ability to sustain attention; as we age we have more difficulty sustaining attention; and this decrement becomes significant when you hit your sixties. It seems to me that daily use of marijuana in advanced senescence could pose some significant adverse risks unless you are near your end. And we aren't even considering drug interactions which just get worse as you age and take more and more meds.
1
Keith,
Sir, you need to educate yourself on this topic.
Sir, you need to educate yourself on this topic.
5
i meant to conclude we very ;much need to make research more doable.
If a homeopathic alternative is equally if not more effective than taking multiple, high priced drugs with side effects (you know the lists from the bizarre pharmacy commercials), what's the main issue? All those jobs and lucrative government contracts lost in America' industrial prison complex perhaps..after all there are quotas, who would they lock up? This institutionalized and fabricated war on drugs has ruined millions of lives, generations of families, mostly black and Hispanic.
7
Amazing! Marijuana may make opioids history! I will side on the natural plant over pharmaceuticals any day!
8
Don't think Big Pharma is going to sit idly by and let that happen?
5
The Puritan ethos in American medicine rears it's ugly head when you detect an undertone of worry that, as well as being effective, darn it, it might also be FUN.
19
I'll be very happy when marijuana is completely legal in the U.S. I'm a senior and smoke cannabis regularly. Yes, it helps with my occasional aches and pains and also alleviates my depression.I've been smoking since my mid 20's and just never gave it up. I'm healthier than many my age and lead an active, life. I'm in much better health than people my age who drink alcohol every day. There will be a day in the not so distant future, where our grandkids won't believe what people had to go through to get cannabis for medicinal or recreational use.
24
Ever tried to get a pain pill from your doctor? 'Nuf said.
13
All of you have heard that when you first light up a joint you get an uncontrollable case of the Giggles. That is because you instantly realized everything you were told about marijuana was a pack of lies, or just bunk. That happened to me in 1965 . But the stupidity continues.
23
The perceived danger of marijuana has always been about the high. It's always been the kind of high the reveals the pointless stupidity of grinding away one's life down to a nub chasing after more and more and more. It exposes the relentless boredom of the repetitious 40+ hour workweek that staves off the fear of poverty and homelessness, and worse, displaces an opportunity to recreate in our lives something of real value.
Alcohol works to dull the pain of this boredom and pointlessness. It gets us through the hours after work when we might otherwise reflect on our predicament and puts us to sleep. So we can get up and do it again. It's legality is by design. It is very effective in keeping all the hamsters on the wheel.
Marijuana will always be a threat.
Alcohol rocks the cradle.
Marijuana rocks the boat.
Alcohol works to dull the pain of this boredom and pointlessness. It gets us through the hours after work when we might otherwise reflect on our predicament and puts us to sleep. So we can get up and do it again. It's legality is by design. It is very effective in keeping all the hamsters on the wheel.
Marijuana will always be a threat.
Alcohol rocks the cradle.
Marijuana rocks the boat.
22
This article states that many doctors are reluctant to endorse pot use for the elderly. However NY state law actually makes it allot more difficult to find a doctor to prescribe marijuana as the only doctors authorized to prescribe it are a select few approved by the state. And to make things even more difficult the state website that has a listing of these doctors at https://nymmj.com/marijuana-doctors does not have a single authrorized doctor listed for most areas that have dispensaries. So while there is a dispensary in Yonkers, there is not a single doctor in either the Bronx or the Yonkers who is approved to prescribe marijuana.
In addition the laws for possession of medical marijuana are also made to be difficult as there is a limit of a 30 day supply and the patient must wait till the final 7 days in order to get their supply for the next month.
Now given that marijuana as it is is already decriminalized in NY with the maximum penalty for unlawful possession being nothing more than violation similar to a parking ticket and a $100 fine, legalization of medical marijuana with all of its impossible conditions seems to be much ado about nothing.
Given that most New Yorkers are no more than one or two degrees away from somebody that knowssomebody who sells pot, it is actually allot easier to get marijuana the old fashioned way, than to find an authorized doctor, wait for an appointment and pay at least as much for the state's legalized medical marijuana.
In addition the laws for possession of medical marijuana are also made to be difficult as there is a limit of a 30 day supply and the patient must wait till the final 7 days in order to get their supply for the next month.
Now given that marijuana as it is is already decriminalized in NY with the maximum penalty for unlawful possession being nothing more than violation similar to a parking ticket and a $100 fine, legalization of medical marijuana with all of its impossible conditions seems to be much ado about nothing.
Given that most New Yorkers are no more than one or two degrees away from somebody that knowssomebody who sells pot, it is actually allot easier to get marijuana the old fashioned way, than to find an authorized doctor, wait for an appointment and pay at least as much for the state's legalized medical marijuana.
9
The religious bigots in this country are the main reason for marijuana's lack of acceptance and availability. It all goes back to lthe days when hippies high on marijuana were denying the existence of God and other sacrilegious activities. You'll notice those same bigots don't seem to have any problem with Vi ox or Oxycontin or codeine or morphine, even though all of these are more harmful than marijuana.
17
I know people who have been using MJ for over 50 years and are productive and successful in their own right. It seems that when one is in their 60s and 70s there is memory loss for everyone (especially for many of my hard drinking friends!) We all seem to complain about forgetting this or that, or losing this or that, and it has nothing to do with smoking pot. It's just life in general.
It's about time that marijuana is legalized. It is a lot less dangerous than drinking. Insofar as the article is concerned, a 90-year old will not get addicted to medical MJ. If it is going to alleviate their pain, for the love of God, let them have it. In fact, let anyone who is suffering have it; it is only right. It is on this earth for a reason, just as grapes are that humans have turned into wine for our recreational use, and sometimes, for, as the bible said, to ease discomfort in the stomach.
It's about time that marijuana is legalized. It is a lot less dangerous than drinking. Insofar as the article is concerned, a 90-year old will not get addicted to medical MJ. If it is going to alleviate their pain, for the love of God, let them have it. In fact, let anyone who is suffering have it; it is only right. It is on this earth for a reason, just as grapes are that humans have turned into wine for our recreational use, and sometimes, for, as the bible said, to ease discomfort in the stomach.
17
It will never be a time to legalize this odorous drug, polluting the streets of NY, adversely affecting individuals wirh pulmonary diseases. Perhaps pot heads are inconsiderate as well as addicted.
2
Puleez, it is hardly polluting the streets of NY. It is not addicting if one does not have an addictive personality in the first place. As I said before, most people I know have been smoking for over 50 years and have never gone on to other drugs, been extremely successful and are not inconsiderate, but polite and probably terrified of getting pinched for smoking on the streets of NYC. Besides, out in the open there are far more cigarette smokers who would probably affect individuals with pulmonary disease faster than pot smokers who are a lot less present in the streets of the big apple.
1
Well, I know someone who almost died in a car accident due to marijuana. No, he was not the one smoking it - the city bus driver who plowed into my friend's car while high on weed was the one who caused the accident.
Not true that this is a "harmless" substance.
Not true that this is a "harmless" substance.
1
The NY State program is typical of programs coming out of Albany - it seems more interested in helping businesses (and potential donors) than the patients. Only doctors who complete a four day program can prescribe it (what doctor worth his salt has four days to take a course on a minor medicine) and the authorised suppliers are very expensive.
To most elderly street marijuana remains the most accessible and cost effective source of marijuana for medical purposes. That is scandalous.
To most elderly street marijuana remains the most accessible and cost effective source of marijuana for medical purposes. That is scandalous.
33
Take the noble plant, torture it in a test-tube until it's constituent parts fly apart like shards of a broken vase-then package them neatly and require a cadre of white-coated priests to dispense the product at prices only affordable by those blessed by the Insurance Fairy, and establish a litmus test to deny treatment to anyone bold enough to whisper 'euphoria"........ no,no,no- just put some dried leaves in a pipe, light and inhale- it is our right as a species......
78
Quick user guide. Not leaves, but bud.
Leaves are empty cannabis calories. I see you live in Virginia. You have not yet had the opportunity to learn about that. Someday soon.
Leaves are empty cannabis calories. I see you live in Virginia. You have not yet had the opportunity to learn about that. Someday soon.
1
I'm 74-years-old and oppose anyone under 30 from using Cannabis for any reason other than medical. Further, I believe in zero tolerance for anyone using any mind altering drug or alcohol and driving any vehicle: car, boat or plane.
Having said that, I need to mention that I have been using pot on a daily basis for more than 53 years; less less, however, over the years. I've gone from many joints a day to less than a third of joint, at night, to sleep and lower my blood pressure. I have lowered my BP from 160 over 90 something to 120 over 80 in less than 10 minutes.
What I have learned over the years is that folks under 30 do not seem to be mature enough and often do really stupid things under the guise of thinking they are being funny, even driving a car (like I did, regrettably, when I was in my 20's). Today, I find myself on the other side of the legalization issue. I don't support making it legal for children to use cannabis. Children, in my view, are such until their late 20's or early 30's, unless they are being supervised by a doctor who has used cannabis her or himself, because it's a substance that must be experienced, first. N'est-ce pas?
For another perspective, read the "Diary of Marco Polo", and learn what the senior citizens of Persia thought about the subject: enlightening in an ancient age, but still relevant, today. By the way, if I don't have grass, I don't experience any withdrawal symptoms, maybe others do ????
Having said that, I need to mention that I have been using pot on a daily basis for more than 53 years; less less, however, over the years. I've gone from many joints a day to less than a third of joint, at night, to sleep and lower my blood pressure. I have lowered my BP from 160 over 90 something to 120 over 80 in less than 10 minutes.
What I have learned over the years is that folks under 30 do not seem to be mature enough and often do really stupid things under the guise of thinking they are being funny, even driving a car (like I did, regrettably, when I was in my 20's). Today, I find myself on the other side of the legalization issue. I don't support making it legal for children to use cannabis. Children, in my view, are such until their late 20's or early 30's, unless they are being supervised by a doctor who has used cannabis her or himself, because it's a substance that must be experienced, first. N'est-ce pas?
For another perspective, read the "Diary of Marco Polo", and learn what the senior citizens of Persia thought about the subject: enlightening in an ancient age, but still relevant, today. By the way, if I don't have grass, I don't experience any withdrawal symptoms, maybe others do ????
11
Here's an opportunity for Trump to make another deal with Mexico.
My aged 94 year old mother said she would try it. I think she would like the strong stuff that would make her high. She has always liked brownies.
My aged 94 year old mother said she would try it. I think she would like the strong stuff that would make her high. She has always liked brownies.
18
Surely someone told the reporter that the "medical marijuana" these nursing home residents are taking, as well as the cannabis used for similar purposes in Israel, has almost no THC (the compound that makes people high) and is nearly pure CBD. Story after story in multiple media lack this crucial distinction. It makes for a better tale to imagine Grandma high as a kite, but as the anecdote at the beginning makes clear, Ms. Brunn doesn't "feel high or stoned," just "better." Sadly, barring a miracle, there never will be science on the medical benefits of marijuana because the profit isn't there to bankroll the clinical trials required. But in the meantime, two problems: 1) the media isn't distinguishing between THC-rich cannabis, which does make one stoned, and CBD, which doesn't, and 2) growers and dispensaries will continue to reduce production of medically potent CBD-based cannabis because clients want the high from THC. Check any dispensary menu and you'll see the CBD content of most offerings is negligible at best. We're missing out on a great medical advance for all the usual reasons.
48
Really! An entire article article without the basic information about the pharmacology of cannabis -- THC & CDB. I use edible CBD (negligible TCH) for the chronic pain of a shoulder dislocation. As the prescribing physician said, 'it's medicine.' I get no high whatsoever, and trust me, I would know.
8
Anyone who understands what it's like to get old probably understands the need for psychotropics, not just marijuana. Age 80 and other qualifying infirmities is the time to move closer to an entirely spiritual existence (which includes love for family). Read philosopher, Ken Wilber's, work on lifespan development and consciousness development. If an elder has not already had years of meditation training--with subtler states of consciousness achieved--then a psychologically supervised psychedelic trip, only a few needed, would make worlds of difference. Bingo doesn't do it. The law needs to be changed.
43
Well said! Agree!
4
The treatment of chronic pain with cannabis provides benefit but is not without negative impact. As a retiree with sleep apnea severe enough to preclude the use of opioids or other sedating pain medications, whose physician has suggested cannabis as the safest alternative for intractable neck pain, I can attest to the benefit and also to the negative aspects of lower energy and ambition, etc. The use of CBD strains with low THC help to mitigate many of the negative aspects, but some remain. I have accepted the trade off, but it may not be right for everyone (again, I'm retired and in pain); but I support every adult's right to make the choice. I don't miss Oxycodone or Tramadol and their side effects...
56
Greg--I, too, am a retiree with severe sleep apnea. Yet for several years I've safely been taking methadone (night dose and morning dose), which successfully treats an intractable movement disorder.
Does your CPAP not help you? Mine does!
That said, I'd happily switch from an opioid to marijuana, as long as I don't have to smoke it, and it wouldn't make me (very) high.
Does your CPAP not help you? Mine does!
That said, I'd happily switch from an opioid to marijuana, as long as I don't have to smoke it, and it wouldn't make me (very) high.
3
You have "sleep apnea severe enough to preclude the use of opioids or other sedating pain medications" and you associate your physician-recommended cannabis (for intractable neck pain) with "lower energy and ambition, etc."
Hmmm.
Hmmm.
1
I also have intractable neck pain and understand your experience very well. If you are lethargic from CBD rich strains it may mean you need more THC and/or strains with a different terpene profile.
Finding the right strains with the correct ratio, the correct balance of THC to CBD and the right terpene profile that’s right for you - and everyone is different - is the secret to having better results. Experimentation is the key.
Cannabis is not monolithic. There are hundreds of different strains with varying cannabinoid, terpene and flavonoid profiles. And everyone reacts individually: one strain may make you sleepy and yet make me energetic.
Try different strains and try mixing different strains until you get the exact right mix of THC/CBD & terpene profile for you and get pain relief without lethargy. It takes work and focus but it is achievable.
Find which strains with which particular cannabinoid/terpene profiles make you sleepy and which make you energetic while giving enough pain relief.
Try different delivery methods. Try tinctures, concentrates, edibles and topicals and keep in mind that you may require different effects at different times.
Best wishes!
Finding the right strains with the correct ratio, the correct balance of THC to CBD and the right terpene profile that’s right for you - and everyone is different - is the secret to having better results. Experimentation is the key.
Cannabis is not monolithic. There are hundreds of different strains with varying cannabinoid, terpene and flavonoid profiles. And everyone reacts individually: one strain may make you sleepy and yet make me energetic.
Try different strains and try mixing different strains until you get the exact right mix of THC/CBD & terpene profile for you and get pain relief without lethargy. It takes work and focus but it is achievable.
Find which strains with which particular cannabinoid/terpene profiles make you sleepy and which make you energetic while giving enough pain relief.
Try different delivery methods. Try tinctures, concentrates, edibles and topicals and keep in mind that you may require different effects at different times.
Best wishes!
2
Bravo , common sense at work !
1
Any chance I can get a box of blunts. With my Depend Fit-Rites and pads?
At least I'll feel mellow when the Ayn Rand Conservatives come to kill and consume me.
At least I'll feel mellow when the Ayn Rand Conservatives come to kill and consume me.
24
"and many doctors are reluctant to endorse pot use, saying not enough is known about the risks in the oldest age groups."
Seriously? Why not ask those who have used it all their adult lives?
Seriously? Why not ask those who have used it all their adult lives?
25
Cannabis is an excellent option for treating a myriad of health issues. Big Pharma and Big Health have been lobbying against it's use (and against scientists & chemists being able to test its effectiveness on humans) for decades and will continue to do so- it's not profitable for them. It's exceedingly important to note that Cannabis can very effectively treat pain without the use of Opioids. And if one were to compare the damage wrought upon American society by legal alcohol consumption, versus the consumption of Cannabis there is no comparison.
22
Marijuana smoking expands your blood vessels and capillaries. The reason people with neuropathy and other pain feel better after smoking is because the painkilling effect of marijuana can reach the furthest parts of the body through the bloodstream. My late aunt, who smoked both cigarettes and pot for nearly 55 years, responded surprisingly well for 5 years to cancer treatments because they were able to reach all parts of her body via her bloodstream. Smoking pot in the mornings also made her neuropathy, one of chemo's worst side-effects, manageable. It is really a shame that the federal government has to keep the ban on marijuana as a controlled substance. Policy makers, especially the pro-10th Amendment Tea Partiers, should embrace states' exploration of the benefits of medical marijuana and let the states decide how to effectively regulate it.
21
I'm 75 and recovering from a devastating stroke;
I know exactly what she means -- http://myblogdammit.net/?p=15346
I know exactly what she means -- http://myblogdammit.net/?p=15346
2
Marijuana indeed has its own problems. Incarceration is a major one. A side effect for some, a sense of well being , is frowned upon in some religions as just plain wrong. Studies have indicated a possible decrease in I.Q. Not as bad as watching FOX news though, which apparently has been proven over and over again.
29
Just legalize it.
57
I've been off and on about using marijuana since the '60s. I'm 76 (thus I qualify as a senior) and currently using (vaporizing mostly sativa) marijuana a few times a week, in the evening, mostly after a hard (50+ miles, many hills) bike ride. It gives me a pleasant buzz, relieves post-exercise cramping, and ensures a good night's sleep. I don't do it the night before a ride as I can be a bit groggy in the early morning if I've done it the night before, and I have the feeling that it will reduce my cycling motivation. But I know riders who do it just before a ride to reduce the pain of hard cycling.
Years ago I read about LSD (did quite a bit of this in the '60s & '70s) being used by dying people. It seemed to make them more accepting of and at peace with death. There seems to be some effort to re-explore LSD and other psychoactive agents for this purpose. I may not be able to get LSD on the way out, but if I don't die quickly in a bike crash, I at least will want good weed to ease my death.
Years ago I read about LSD (did quite a bit of this in the '60s & '70s) being used by dying people. It seemed to make them more accepting of and at peace with death. There seems to be some effort to re-explore LSD and other psychoactive agents for this purpose. I may not be able to get LSD on the way out, but if I don't die quickly in a bike crash, I at least will want good weed to ease my death.
129
A "good death?" In this NPR video --
http://www.npr.org/event/music/364721657/pat-benatar-neil-giraldo-tiny-d... --
singer Pat Benatar, age 64, tells a great story about her late father's last day.
Not MJ. Cheesecake. An entire one. All at once.
FYI: MJ is NOT well-researched, like alcohol. Use at YOUR risk, not anyone else's.
http://www.npr.org/event/music/364721657/pat-benatar-neil-giraldo-tiny-d... --
singer Pat Benatar, age 64, tells a great story about her late father's last day.
Not MJ. Cheesecake. An entire one. All at once.
FYI: MJ is NOT well-researched, like alcohol. Use at YOUR risk, not anyone else's.
1
When my mother was dying from lung cancer, she was administered marijuana to help combat the horrendous side effects from chemotherapy. Weed made her feel better, forget about her pain and lessened her fear of dying. I am not a fan of weed, don't believe in it's recreational use. But I do believe it has a legitimate place for people who are in constant pain and can find no real resolution for relief.
4
Does it matter if its effective if its perceived to be?
4
The only reason for banning cannabis is that it is very cheap to cultivate and use. The pharmaceutical companies must hate it. We should feel sorry for their financial losses!
6
Black folks of all ages risk prison for doing MJ while black. Drugs are only illegal and evil when blacks use, possess or sell them.
Instead of being treated as a criminal justice problem for blacks, illegal drugs should be treated as a potential medical health abuse issue like alcohol and tobacco. Along with being correlated with poverty and mental illness.
Criminalizing alcohol and drugs followed the reality that mostly non-WASP folks relied on and made those industries profitable. Italian and Irish Catholic gangsters joined with Jewish gangsters during Prohibition. The war on drugs is a war on African and Latino American gangsters.
Instead of being treated as a criminal justice problem for blacks, illegal drugs should be treated as a potential medical health abuse issue like alcohol and tobacco. Along with being correlated with poverty and mental illness.
Criminalizing alcohol and drugs followed the reality that mostly non-WASP folks relied on and made those industries profitable. Italian and Irish Catholic gangsters joined with Jewish gangsters during Prohibition. The war on drugs is a war on African and Latino American gangsters.
2
Can we all get over it now? People smoke herb. Lots of people. Who all age. Wow. The main problems with weed are it's high price and the ridiculous, expensive and fruitless efforts to prevent its use.
29
Nearly everyone I know well over the last 70 years has enjoyed marijuana more or less constantly, through college and career and family and retirement.
It's only the government that had a problem. Government and those that donate to political campaigns.
It's only the government that had a problem. Government and those that donate to political campaigns.
18
Well, maybe you don't know enough people. I know lots of people who experimented with marijuana during college or as young adults of the same age. But almost everyone gave it up after a few years. And there a few who never even touched it, including my husband and me. And guess what? We're not fundamentalist Christians either.
1
well, the rest of us left Ohio for California in the late 1960s.
5
Get some backbone NYT!
First of all, STOP CALLNG IT "MARIJUANA"! Call it by its botanical/scientific name: Cannabis. You don't refer to alcohol as "booze" or "liquor" or "moonshine" etc as in "fetal moonshine syndrome." Call it by its actual name, not by a euphemism steeped in racism and xenophobia (look it up!).
Second, you claim that there is "no shortage of research on [sic} marijuana." yet just a month ago your paper ran this article, https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/17/opinion/scientists-to-government-make..., that points out how difficult it has been to do research on cannabis given its classification as a Schedule I drug. And another this article from 2014
Third, why are you not questioning that actual Schedule I designation in the first place? That designation - with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use - is patently absurd in that the exact inverse appears to be true. ZERO deaths WORLDWIDE from cannabis overdose, which is not even possible; serious debate about whether it is even addictive at all in the way that heroin, nicotine, alcohol, and other substances are, and has virtually no side effects except those raised in debunked studies, especially concerning teenagers (look it up!).
It may seem like some tangental issue, but it gets to the core of our freedom as human beings: what can I put into my body? can I have control over my own consciousness or does Jeff Sessions get to do that? Sobering questions indeed.
First of all, STOP CALLNG IT "MARIJUANA"! Call it by its botanical/scientific name: Cannabis. You don't refer to alcohol as "booze" or "liquor" or "moonshine" etc as in "fetal moonshine syndrome." Call it by its actual name, not by a euphemism steeped in racism and xenophobia (look it up!).
Second, you claim that there is "no shortage of research on [sic} marijuana." yet just a month ago your paper ran this article, https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/17/opinion/scientists-to-government-make..., that points out how difficult it has been to do research on cannabis given its classification as a Schedule I drug. And another this article from 2014
Third, why are you not questioning that actual Schedule I designation in the first place? That designation - with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use - is patently absurd in that the exact inverse appears to be true. ZERO deaths WORLDWIDE from cannabis overdose, which is not even possible; serious debate about whether it is even addictive at all in the way that heroin, nicotine, alcohol, and other substances are, and has virtually no side effects except those raised in debunked studies, especially concerning teenagers (look it up!).
It may seem like some tangental issue, but it gets to the core of our freedom as human beings: what can I put into my body? can I have control over my own consciousness or does Jeff Sessions get to do that? Sobering questions indeed.
48
A recent National Academy of Sciences Report captures the state of the science, available here:
http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=24625
Read it, it's free.
http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=24625
Read it, it's free.
1
I did read it, very informative, and the heading "Therapeutic Effects" convinces me that it is an effective drug for chronic pain and other ailments in older people. So I have no idea why Dr. Thomas Strouse has concluded that there is "no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people." I think he more than anyone should read the above report.
1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lf2GRGSBSV8
Here is my editorial comment on this issue. I am 10 years from retirement and looking forward to my 420K plan.
JR
Here is my editorial comment on this issue. I am 10 years from retirement and looking forward to my 420K plan.
JR
3
First stop killings in the streets of Chicago (which are all hate crimes because one kills only people one hates) and let Seniors enjoy the most precious time of their lives. Wrong priorities!
7
The Nixon tapes display why the "war on drugs" was aimed at marijuana. Nixon saw it as a way to go after the youthful left that was protesting against him. In terms of dangers around pot, there has been an active experiment in the State of Colorado on the medical and recreational use of marijuana. It has been legal there since 2012. Has there been any of the side effects hinted at in the NIDA scare campaigns. There is no indication taht the open usag of marijuana has caused issue that even remotely comapre with the consumption of alchohol.
17
Recent article in the NYT about medical marijuana in Israel:
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/17/world/middleeast/israel-a-medical-mar...
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/17/world/middleeast/israel-a-medical-mar...
1
My mother suffered terribly from osteoporosis and arthritis up to the day she died at 98. He nursing home physician refused to prescribe anything stronger than Tylenol and left her in pain. This obsession about "long-term effects" from drugs when you're talking about a population that is elderly is ridiculous. Who cares what the long-term effects might be when a person is 90? If my mother could have had some relief for those last years, it wouldn't have mattered what side effects there were. Elderly patients know what they're doing. Doctors need to stop meddling and treating them like children.
58
So, no mention of of all deaths associated with pot use? Wait a minute........ you seriously mean to tell me there are none? No fatal overdoses or anthing?
Wow. Who knew...............
Wow. Who knew...............
34
There have been serious overdoses. Not a lot but it's not harmless.
1
Do you have any evidence of that? Really. I'd like to know.
2
Marijuana has its own problems. It is associated with decreased IQs when started in the teenage years. When started in adult years over 40 associated with decrease memory... believe me when you are in your 60s you need all the help you can get.
I imagine it is a matter of degree.
There is no free lunch.
I imagine it is a matter of degree.
There is no free lunch.
28
Good grief - the lady is 98 years old. What could possibly go wrong? Let her decide to live as pain-free as possible in her final years (hopefully).
6
Do you have concrete scientific references to support these dubious statements?
5
It is no one's business.. It should be between the patient and the patient's physician... Just like any medication. For people with severe, intractable pain, it can help....and the reduction in memory" is no different than it would be with any narcotic pain reliever.
3
Dr. Thomas Strouse's comment, “There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people, and some reason that it could be harmful,” is particularly ingenuous.
The fact is that there is precious little evidence on the use of medical marijuana by older patients. Marijuana remains on the list of prohibited narcotics and there have been few studies on the efficacy of medical marijuana. Extracting the active components from marijuana and packaging standard dosage remains an issue, with some states merely authorizing use of the natural product.
The older patients in the nursing homes you mention must self-store and self-administer their medical marijuana. That, in itself, is problematic. Nursing homes store and administer other drugs because doing so is necessary to be sure that the patients are taking their drugs as prescribed. Marijuana is not different in that respect.
As for physicians, the interaction between medical marijuana and other drugs commonly prescribed for seniors is somewhat problematic because of the absence of definitive studies.
The fact is that there is precious little evidence on the use of medical marijuana by older patients. Marijuana remains on the list of prohibited narcotics and there have been few studies on the efficacy of medical marijuana. Extracting the active components from marijuana and packaging standard dosage remains an issue, with some states merely authorizing use of the natural product.
The older patients in the nursing homes you mention must self-store and self-administer their medical marijuana. That, in itself, is problematic. Nursing homes store and administer other drugs because doing so is necessary to be sure that the patients are taking their drugs as prescribed. Marijuana is not different in that respect.
As for physicians, the interaction between medical marijuana and other drugs commonly prescribed for seniors is somewhat problematic because of the absence of definitive studies.
10
Yes - we need legal, reputable research on medical marijuana. But the feds won't allow that. It is amazingly helpful for nausea and for chronic pain.
4
I guess the docs quoted who don't know if it helps never believe their patients--yep, that's the medical establishment who do not listen to their patients when they report something....It's legal in OR...It definitely helps people with pain...at least many of them...I have a neighbor here at the Old Folks Home who uses an opioid which doesn't work for his pain...I smoked MJ when younger...It helped me in many ways then I took up meditation....
6
A dear friend of mine and a fellow Vietnam Veteran began a treatment using Marijuana to offset the chemotherapy he was undergoing to treat thyroid cancer.
As a result of using the cannabis, he never got nauseous during the chemo or afterward, and as a matter of fact, used to eat a sandwich WHILE he was undergoing the treatment. Never suffered any side effects of the chemo.
He is now cancer-free but still uses it to help with the PTSD he has suffered all these years from the Vietnam War. He is in his 80s. Time to re-think our attitude toward THC.
As a result of using the cannabis, he never got nauseous during the chemo or afterward, and as a matter of fact, used to eat a sandwich WHILE he was undergoing the treatment. Never suffered any side effects of the chemo.
He is now cancer-free but still uses it to help with the PTSD he has suffered all these years from the Vietnam War. He is in his 80s. Time to re-think our attitude toward THC.
33
Won't somebody please think of the children?
4
Children should not smoke or drink alcohol, but letting an adult make medical choices for herself has nothing to do with children!
4
Grandchildren with happy grandparents grow up to have good childhood memories. All seed bearing plants for the benefit of mankind. God bless.
3
Yes, and that's why we are going make sure that cannabis is safe and legal in every state before this decade is up.
2
Those of us in our sixties, living in the sixties and seventies, know all about weed. Not as rare as you think, us old hippies would rather smoke than drink.
67
Not this one. Give me a glass of good wine any time. Enjoy the taste and won't get high.
CannabisReports.com (formerly Smoke Reports) has a webpage with an index of international medical cannabis research, with links. Very useful resource.
6
Properly administered, it's safe and effective. We have much more to fear about the flood of opioids coming from China, who has understood, for centuries, if not millennia, the impact of opium, heroin, and opioids on a person, and community. It's profitable for them in more than one way to sell these drugs to us. Big pharma is the voice behind THC, and PCB use, because they are cheap, effective, and not profitable to them. Try it for proper use before criticizing.
19
That flood of opiates comes from Mexico, not China.
1
I had a long-term user of opiates, for failed back surgery, come in for his/her tri-monthy prescription recently. (sex changed to disguise pt). He/she asked for 1/2 the usual amount. I was thrilled and bemused to hear, "I've been trying a friend's medical marijuana for a month and it works! I can really cut down on my opiates. Only need them now to be able to sleep at night. Can you prescribe these for me?"
I couldn't--not from a federally-subsidized facility. Recommended he/she call a reputable marijuana supplier to get an MD reference, and warned that the permit to buy would likely be costly.
We discussed safe ways to use--buy pure stuff; beware unknown additives. Never street drugs. Try not to smoke; lungs are delicate, precious organs. Careful about driving or falls. Please keep me updated on how this is working for you.
I was thrilled that he'd be able to cut back on pain meds that I know are dangerous. And I do wish we had more research--but in the meantime trust your body and your own observations. For the elderly, start low (dose) and go slow! No smoking in bed, ever.
And possibly consider growing your own, if state law allows?
I couldn't--not from a federally-subsidized facility. Recommended he/she call a reputable marijuana supplier to get an MD reference, and warned that the permit to buy would likely be costly.
We discussed safe ways to use--buy pure stuff; beware unknown additives. Never street drugs. Try not to smoke; lungs are delicate, precious organs. Careful about driving or falls. Please keep me updated on how this is working for you.
I was thrilled that he'd be able to cut back on pain meds that I know are dangerous. And I do wish we had more research--but in the meantime trust your body and your own observations. For the elderly, start low (dose) and go slow! No smoking in bed, ever.
And possibly consider growing your own, if state law allows?
18
Someday, not so far away, cannabis will no longer have the stigma; it will someday be as commonplace as coffee. In fact it's that analogy--not the fallacious comparison some make to alcohol--that more accurately states its relationship with humanity: As caffeine is a little jolt in the morning before work, cannabis is a little pick-me-up in the afternoon, a little night cap just before bed. It's not addictive, but like coffee/caffeine it can be habit forming. There are good habits and bad habits.
Once middle-America gets a hold of this product/substance/plant and realizes what it can do for their chronic pain and for their general malaise, their fear for the future, their fear of other Americans who don't think, act, feel like they do, cannabis will be ubiquitous. People who use cannabis will stop taking Big Pharma's drugs--many of them poisons. Cannabis is a much kinder, natural remedy (this has been true in my case).
It's time has come and none too soon. It might, in fact, save us from ourselves. It can make smart people smarter, and dumb people more tolerant. It can sweep the cobwebs away and reveal possibilities to life and living that weren't there before, that might never have been there before.
It's not for everyone, but for those who let it into their lives and who use it medicinally (as opposed to the extreme "stoner or dabber" recreational use), it's going to be bigger than coffee. Really. Get ready. It's long-term effects can be miraculous.
Once middle-America gets a hold of this product/substance/plant and realizes what it can do for their chronic pain and for their general malaise, their fear for the future, their fear of other Americans who don't think, act, feel like they do, cannabis will be ubiquitous. People who use cannabis will stop taking Big Pharma's drugs--many of them poisons. Cannabis is a much kinder, natural remedy (this has been true in my case).
It's time has come and none too soon. It might, in fact, save us from ourselves. It can make smart people smarter, and dumb people more tolerant. It can sweep the cobwebs away and reveal possibilities to life and living that weren't there before, that might never have been there before.
It's not for everyone, but for those who let it into their lives and who use it medicinally (as opposed to the extreme "stoner or dabber" recreational use), it's going to be bigger than coffee. Really. Get ready. It's long-term effects can be miraculous.
38
I started having painful arthritis in my left hand just before I retired. The topical Cannibidinol cream available at dispensary reduces the disabling pain to a tolerable level during the day and at night. The only relief my doctor offered was an OTC medicine twice a day. I am now enjoying retirement.
25
Time to end Prohibition, which didn't work the first time.
Democrats, please note that Obama did virtually nothing to end this failed attack on drug users.
Think for yourself?
Democrats, please note that Obama did virtually nothing to end this failed attack on drug users.
Think for yourself?
14
Sessions and Trump could be disaster for the industry if people don't organize and put pressure.
3
Geez...are we going to blame Obama for everything? At least he got 20 million people health care. He couldn't get them pot, too? I think I'll give him a pass on that.
5
A basic misconception (not addressed by this article) is that all medical cannabis contains THC and makes you stoned. In fact another component called cannabidiol or CBD is the main component of the pain relieving meds. It's non addictive and non psychoactive. I personally know at least two elderly ladies who use it daily for pain control (cancer and crushed disk, respectively) and stopped their OxyContin. Their retirement home has the same "hands off but we want to know about it" policy described in the article.
27
CBD oils made from non psychoactive hemp are available and legal. Available in 50 states and and no medical card required. Get the nutrients without the high?
After a nasty fall from a ladder 4 years ago and countless physical therapy sessions l am still in pain. My pain management doctor does not believe in the healing properties of marijuana and accordingly won't prescribe it for me. After reading this article I will find a doctor who does and hopefully marijuana will help me also.
27
I say "Go Granny go!"
Benedict Carey's article on February 13 reported on a JAMA study showing that prescribing multiple psychotropic drugs to elders had more than doubled between 2004 and 2013. More than half of the seniors studied had no mental health diagnosis on record. Talk about dangerous drugs! Side effects range from dizziness to death, but these are all legal, and the doctors prescribing them, nor the pharmaceutical companies making them, do not fear prosecution.
Benedict Carey's article on February 13 reported on a JAMA study showing that prescribing multiple psychotropic drugs to elders had more than doubled between 2004 and 2013. More than half of the seniors studied had no mental health diagnosis on record. Talk about dangerous drugs! Side effects range from dizziness to death, but these are all legal, and the doctors prescribing them, nor the pharmaceutical companies making them, do not fear prosecution.
26
Unfortunately our most vulnerable patients often do not have access to medical marijuana. Here in Connecticut where over 15 thousand patients have been certified to receive medical marijuana only Connecticut Children's Medical Center has allowed those certified patients access to their marijuana when they are hospitalized. Other hospitals fear medical legal consequences and federal regulations and thus withhold marijuana access when patients are hospitalized. Thus when patients are most ill they cannot access the medication which may be providing them relief from pain, nausea, spasm or other debilitating symptoms. Further legislation at the state level may need to be implemented allow patients to access their marijuana in medical settings.
William T. Zempsky, MD, MPH
Head, Division of Pain and Palliative Medicine
Connecticut Children's Medical Center
Professor of Pediatrics and Nursing
University of Connecticut
William T. Zempsky, MD, MPH
Head, Division of Pain and Palliative Medicine
Connecticut Children's Medical Center
Professor of Pediatrics and Nursing
University of Connecticut
137
Hey Doc,
Let's hope we can end the negative stigma that follows this beautiful plant. However you know that nothing is going to change unless the medical professionals embrace the sacred herb. Big Pharma has them in their pocket, it's up to professionals like yourself to spread the word... and end the negativity that surrounds this gift.
Peace
Let's hope we can end the negative stigma that follows this beautiful plant. However you know that nothing is going to change unless the medical professionals embrace the sacred herb. Big Pharma has them in their pocket, it's up to professionals like yourself to spread the word... and end the negativity that surrounds this gift.
Peace
1
CBD or cannabidiol (pardon my spelling) is a pain reliever, nausea reducer, and generally useful substance which does not induce any effects like getting high, etc.
Certain strains of marijuana contain higher concentrations of CBD, and in Colorado it is possible to get CBD-only medications which are literally wonder drugs. I'm sure that CBD medications are available in other states as well.
There are no known side effects to CBD, and it is not possible to overdose on this very safe, natural substance. Of course, big pharma hates cheap, effective natural substances that you could grow in your backyard.
Certain strains of marijuana contain higher concentrations of CBD, and in Colorado it is possible to get CBD-only medications which are literally wonder drugs. I'm sure that CBD medications are available in other states as well.
There are no known side effects to CBD, and it is not possible to overdose on this very safe, natural substance. Of course, big pharma hates cheap, effective natural substances that you could grow in your backyard.
12
doctors are in bed with big Pharm. They just parrot the "dangerous mantra" of all these "alternative" options.
Marijuana is much more natural and free of the side effects that "approved" medicines have.
Families just need to work around the people who block there right to have options.
Marijuana is much more natural and free of the side effects that "approved" medicines have.
Families just need to work around the people who block there right to have options.
3
The whole thing about "not enough study" is spurious. As John Ioannidis found, much of what passes for 'evidence-based medicine' is biased and of poor statistical quality anyways. Ben Goldacre's books are also worth reading.
We got my father-in-law on cannabis for the last years of his life with significant enhancement of quality of life as he was able to enjoy his walking without worrying about joint pain. It also reduced levels of anxiety considerably, with less toxic side-effects than the whatever his doctor was trying to push on him. Sure that is just one anectode (although I know of many others, and no negative ones), but when doctors make claims about marijuana, I'm reminded of Groucho Marx's "Who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes".
We got my father-in-law on cannabis for the last years of his life with significant enhancement of quality of life as he was able to enjoy his walking without worrying about joint pain. It also reduced levels of anxiety considerably, with less toxic side-effects than the whatever his doctor was trying to push on him. Sure that is just one anectode (although I know of many others, and no negative ones), but when doctors make claims about marijuana, I'm reminded of Groucho Marx's "Who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes".
3
Ever heard of marijuana withdrawal seizures? I haven't either. Someone I know was taken to the ER again yesterday due to alcohol withdrawal seizures and it was not the first time. This is life-threatening. Alcohol is a legal drug in America and, yes, I consider it to be a drug. Legal alcohol is killing people. But, hey, there's lots of money to be made from the sale of alcohol so who gives a rat's *ss? Certainly not legislators and alcohol industry poo-bahs since they make a nice living off of it. Poor suckers who can't regulate their use of the product be damned. Marijuana is a PLANT, not a profit-producing product created in a laboratory.
8
My elderly aunt uses cannabis oil in lieu of all nsaids, and opiates.
She sleeps far better, has less pain, and suffers none of the side effects associated with either of the two aforementioned pain meds. As a forty year daily user of cannabis, I applaud those who have been lulled into ignorance with the governments propaganda, and are finally awakening to the truth.
She sleeps far better, has less pain, and suffers none of the side effects associated with either of the two aforementioned pain meds. As a forty year daily user of cannabis, I applaud those who have been lulled into ignorance with the governments propaganda, and are finally awakening to the truth.
14
I used to think cannabis destroyed brain cells. Then I read an article in the NYTimes in which a man described his personal use, which to me as I started reading seemed excessive enough to turn one's brain to oatmeal. Yet, the man described its benefits, and how well he functioned. A study should be done of these long term users to better assess what this drug does to the body. It seems less harmful to adults than any prescription drug,which all have serious side effects. I was surprised to see it illustrated in a 16th-century European Herbal as a medication to relieve headache. Pain relief from nature rather than a synthetic compound. It's good that it is now available as tea and oil, so people don't have to fill their lungs with smoke.
10
“I don’t feel high or stoned,” she said. “All I know is I feel better when I take this.”
Ummm - isn't that what being high really is?
Ummm - isn't that what being high really is?
6
Ummm, No!
1
Ummm - yes.
1
Let's not be silly. If I have a headache I take an aspirin, I feel better, and I'm not high. Or, if I get acid reflux and take an antacid I feel better, and I'm not high. Feeling better does not mean you're high.
1
Ironic; older Americans are 'turning in, turning on and, well, already dropped out' while young America is killing itself with opoid addiction.
Ironic also that in most of the country, the relative mildness and pain soothing high of marijuana is as illegal as the other, more life destroying drugs.
"Scotch and soda" anyone?
Ironic also that in most of the country, the relative mildness and pain soothing high of marijuana is as illegal as the other, more life destroying drugs.
"Scotch and soda" anyone?
15
Unsurprisingly one must follow the money to arrive at the truth. Legalization and subsequent use of marijuana will reduce the profits of Big Pharma and, accordingly, Big Pharma is spending millions of dollars to defeat any effort to make marijuana available to patients suffering from pain. This effort by Big Pharma has the intended goal of preserving profits. A side effect of achieving this goal will be increased opioid addiction and abuse.
Purdue Pharma and Abbott Laboratories, makers of the painkiller OxyContin and Vicodin, respectively, are among the largest contributors to the Anti-Drug Coalition of America (is this ever ironic), according to a report in the Nation. And the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, considered one of marijuana’s biggest opponents, spent nearly $19m on lobbying in 2015.For big pharma, however, an expanding amount of data explains their fears. Opiate overdoses dropped by roughly 25% in states that have legalized medical marijuana compared to states that have prohibited sales of the plant, according to a 2014 study from the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study implies that people could be using medical marijuana to treat their pain rather than opioid painkillers, or they’re taking lower doses.
Purdue Pharma and Abbott Laboratories, makers of the painkiller OxyContin and Vicodin, respectively, are among the largest contributors to the Anti-Drug Coalition of America (is this ever ironic), according to a report in the Nation. And the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, considered one of marijuana’s biggest opponents, spent nearly $19m on lobbying in 2015.For big pharma, however, an expanding amount of data explains their fears. Opiate overdoses dropped by roughly 25% in states that have legalized medical marijuana compared to states that have prohibited sales of the plant, according to a 2014 study from the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study implies that people could be using medical marijuana to treat their pain rather than opioid painkillers, or they’re taking lower doses.
32
"No shortage of research on marijuana." I would like to know on what basis the writer makes this statement. In fact, there are virtually no controlled studies on the effectiveness of marijuana or any other cannabis products for the management of any forms of pain nor any demonstrating they are as good as much less more effective than the currently available medications.
And the fact that the author only cites morphine as an alternative drug for pain management demonstrates the ignorance most people including many healthcare professionals have about the treatment of pain. Morphine and other opioids are not first line medications for either neuropathic or arthritic pain from which most of the senior citizens in the article suffer. it's too bad that apparently they don't have physicians who know how to treat pain.
And the fact that the author only cites morphine as an alternative drug for pain management demonstrates the ignorance most people including many healthcare professionals have about the treatment of pain. Morphine and other opioids are not first line medications for either neuropathic or arthritic pain from which most of the senior citizens in the article suffer. it's too bad that apparently they don't have physicians who know how to treat pain.
10
Who are these troglodytes still opposing this harmless drug?
24
This is yet another example of where a society makes important decisions based on emotion rather than reason/evidence. Rather than blathering on about possible "concerns" or "crisis"... how about an EVIDENCE-BASED ARGUMENT that cannabis is even remotely close to mainstream prescription and non-prescription (alcohol) drugs in terms of dangers to personal health.
Also love it about how many of the folks who reliably crow the loudest about FREEDOM this and FREEDOM that (esp. guns) seem to have no problem playing Nanny State paternalism when it comes to the self-regarding drug choices of others.
Also love it about how many of the folks who reliably crow the loudest about FREEDOM this and FREEDOM that (esp. guns) seem to have no problem playing Nanny State paternalism when it comes to the self-regarding drug choices of others.
33
Not everyone who believes in gun control supports legalization of marijuana. Not by a long shot. Show us some evidence, please.
2
I'm with you Sue M. (and nice pun too!)
2
Just as America seems to be coming to its senses about marijuana, we elect a fool who will, as likely as not, upend 50 years of painstakingly slow advancement in the development of a sane approach to the beneficial pharmaceutical properties of this plant. The morality police, against any substance that intentionally or incidentally wreaks pleasure on its users, have had their way for way too long.
26
I truly don't get this. They don't call marijuana "weed" for nothing. It's relatively easy to grow, people should be able to grow it in their homes or gardens and not need to be licensed to do this. We can brew a few cases of beer legally, why can't we grow marijuana? Seeds are readily available on line for quality varieties. Certainly there is a question of the terroir, the environmental conditions, in growing quality plants, but a little experimentation with different varieties can control this. Governments need to keep their hands off.
22
Drugs have been around for centuries. If people want to use drugs (incl. alcohol) to reduce pain, relax, celebrate, etc that should be ok. Stop the insanity that is the War on Drugs and legalize - control the manufacturing, distribution, regulation, and taxation.
Before 1920, heroin, pot, cocaine, and opiates were ALL legal and unregulated. Prohibition failed after barely 13 years. By making drugs illegal we have created the illicit underground international drug trade, street gangs, and increased violence and drug-related deaths tenfold. We have made drug king pins billionaires, created a mass incarceration nightmare (that we are just now trying to reverse), and destroyed families.
Only 10% of drug users have a problem with their substance. Some 90% of the people who use a drug – the overwhelming majority – are not harmed by it. Even William Bennett, the most aggressive drug czar in U.S. history, admits: ‘ Non-addicted users still comprise the vast bulk of out drug-involved population.” The result is that the harmed 10 percent make up 100 percent of the DISTORTED official picture. In 1995, the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a massive scientific study of cocaine and its effects. They discovered that “ experimental and occasional use are by far the most common types of use, and compulsive/dysfunctional use is far less common.” The U.S. government threatened to cut off funding to WHO unless they suppressed the report. It has never been published but was leaked.
Before 1920, heroin, pot, cocaine, and opiates were ALL legal and unregulated. Prohibition failed after barely 13 years. By making drugs illegal we have created the illicit underground international drug trade, street gangs, and increased violence and drug-related deaths tenfold. We have made drug king pins billionaires, created a mass incarceration nightmare (that we are just now trying to reverse), and destroyed families.
Only 10% of drug users have a problem with their substance. Some 90% of the people who use a drug – the overwhelming majority – are not harmed by it. Even William Bennett, the most aggressive drug czar in U.S. history, admits: ‘ Non-addicted users still comprise the vast bulk of out drug-involved population.” The result is that the harmed 10 percent make up 100 percent of the DISTORTED official picture. In 1995, the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a massive scientific study of cocaine and its effects. They discovered that “ experimental and occasional use are by far the most common types of use, and compulsive/dysfunctional use is far less common.” The U.S. government threatened to cut off funding to WHO unless they suppressed the report. It has never been published but was leaked.
33
Do you listen to the pharma commercials and hear all of the horrible side effects of the drugs that they are pushing? I will take pot's side effects (munchies) anytime over possible death from a synthetic chemical. Something from the ground is better than something cooked up in a lab.
My mother refuses to take anything that has pot in it to help her pain and those pills at $20 a pop do nothing for her, but since a doctor prescribed them, they must be good.
It is stigma and stupidity. Oh, right she voted for Trump. Too bad that there isn't a pot ointment to relieve stupid!
Trump could use some pot! Sessions needs a hit or two. Pot for everyone - and then just chill! The world would be so much better off! The cheapest growable chill pill in the world and it is illegal in my great state of Texas. Blah!
Keep the pot industry stories coming. It will help take the fear out of those brainwashed by Reefer Madness. Oh, horrors!
My mother refuses to take anything that has pot in it to help her pain and those pills at $20 a pop do nothing for her, but since a doctor prescribed them, they must be good.
It is stigma and stupidity. Oh, right she voted for Trump. Too bad that there isn't a pot ointment to relieve stupid!
Trump could use some pot! Sessions needs a hit or two. Pot for everyone - and then just chill! The world would be so much better off! The cheapest growable chill pill in the world and it is illegal in my great state of Texas. Blah!
Keep the pot industry stories coming. It will help take the fear out of those brainwashed by Reefer Madness. Oh, horrors!
106
It's about time we stop vilifying Marijuana. Less dangerous than oxycontin or alcohol.
155
Nancy Reagan legacy.
3
A frind of mine (me) smokes marijuana every day, starting in the afternoon and throughout the evening. Pot makes uninteresting things interesting, and interesting things fascinating. I can feel my the universe soften and my tensions dissolve. The every day, incessant, nagging pains of old age fade into the background - but that's not why I indulge. I do it to get high.
I don't have to work, I don't have to drive, I don't have to tend children. I'm not shirking any responsibilities. I'm happily retired and have been for 7 years, and I plan to stay that way: A happy, healthy, self-sufficient old pot head who wishes more people could get off the hate wagon and simmer down. Peace.
I don't have to work, I don't have to drive, I don't have to tend children. I'm not shirking any responsibilities. I'm happily retired and have been for 7 years, and I plan to stay that way: A happy, healthy, self-sufficient old pot head who wishes more people could get off the hate wagon and simmer down. Peace.
614
Well done, Barbyr.
16
Kind of remind of Richard Pryor's story about the first time he was offered cocaine and he said to the friend who offered it to him "I hear this stuff is addicting."
To which the friend replied "I've been using it every day for 10 years and I'm not addicted"
To which the friend replied "I've been using it every day for 10 years and I'm not addicted"
2
So do I. I'm 74, smoked pot in the 1970's, and began again last fall. Music sounds wonderful on marijuana. And recreational pot is legal in Oregon.
14
I moved to Trinidad Colorado a year ago and now legal marijuana seems like the most normal thing in the world. Also, Trinidad CO is beautiful, super cheap to live and the people are very welcoming and friendly.
30
Various cities like Seattle and Denver have reported an increase in crime related to Cannabis (legal in those places). I am highly suspicious that Trinidad, CO is immune from that and has all those "nice" people in addition.
Having smoked marijuana for nearly 50 years, I have yet to notice any adverse affects. However, I have noticed at this point my usage is geared more towards a medicinal purpose. Sleeping becomes a problem as we age. Ambien worked but the side affects weren't for me. I find it relaxing and also as good digestive. And, as usual, uplifting in a spiritual way. Seems to cover a lot of bases. Lets us old folks enjoy our remaining time on this planet.
163
The word "dose" means a precise amount of medicine. That's not what this is.
1
When you ingest an edible with 1omg of CBD, that's a pretty exact thing.
1
"Dose" sounds precise, but it's not.
There are variables of weight, age, health, gender, interactions with other drugs, and individual responses, that vary on a bell shaped curve at any dose.That's not including all the side effects that effect dosage.
Our legal, expensive narcotic painkillers, cause tolerate, leading to increased dosage and addiction.We have a deadly epidemic as a result.
.
Medical MJ is not physically addicting - it's one of the most rational choices for pain management and needed research.
There are variables of weight, age, health, gender, interactions with other drugs, and individual responses, that vary on a bell shaped curve at any dose.That's not including all the side effects that effect dosage.
Our legal, expensive narcotic painkillers, cause tolerate, leading to increased dosage and addiction.We have a deadly epidemic as a result.
.
Medical MJ is not physically addicting - it's one of the most rational choices for pain management and needed research.
1
I have severe arthritis in both my knee and hip. The pain has been disabling and is getting worse. I'm unable to tolerate anti-inflammatories. Marajuana has been the only 'medicine' that's truly helped my pain, and without side effects.
Problem has been the quality of the product--unreliable, unknowable composition--and the expense. As well, none of my physicians wants to write a prescription for marajuana, though they all acknowledge its positive effects and relative harmlessness.
It's shameful that getting pain relief is so 'criminalizing.' But I'll continue to search for a physician because the alternative is untenable.
Problem has been the quality of the product--unreliable, unknowable composition--and the expense. As well, none of my physicians wants to write a prescription for marajuana, though they all acknowledge its positive effects and relative harmlessness.
It's shameful that getting pain relief is so 'criminalizing.' But I'll continue to search for a physician because the alternative is untenable.
41
No need for more speculation and theorizing...it works! I'm in my 70's and have a great deal of arthritis pain. Marijuana relieves that pain and, unlike, what I refer to as "Prince pills," the nasty opioids prescribed after knee-replacement surgery, I don't have crazy dreams and I don't feel "unreal" when I've had a smoke. It's relaxing and smooth and non-addictive...more research? Instead, how about more research on doctors beholden to and furthering the aims of the pharmaceutical industry and their objective to create a nation of addicts.
86
Thousands of years of continuous use of marijuana as medicine, only interrupted for the last one hundred years by corrupt actions of competing (polluting) industries and old folks have to wait for more research? Read Queen Victoria's diaries if you want a recent testimonial.
41
Morphine is legal for pain relief and cannabis is not???
35
I had already been planning on exploring the benefits of nicotine if & when I make it to my 90s. Now I'll keep the cannaboids in mind as well!
I have one question for the doctors who are reluctant to endorse pot use: how old are you? It astounds me that supposed medical professionals can say stuff like “not enough is known about the risks in the oldest age groups.” What’s your thinking, that older people should take the youth pill instead? Until there’s a remedy for the aging process, which comes with a lot of routine pain, how about some empathy?
Also, the statement: “there is no shortage of research on marijuana” must be tempered with facts. Because marijuana is a Class 1 drug, medical researchers have a very difficult time obtaining legally grown marijuana for study. So while there might be ample research out there, there could be far more, and given that marijuana is becoming legal in many states, much more study should be done. Then maybe we could get a judgement on Dr. Strouse’s rather strange assertion that “There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people.”
Wake up, medical community…. aging comes with pain. Want to keep us alive longer? Then figure out a way to minimize pain.
Also, the statement: “there is no shortage of research on marijuana” must be tempered with facts. Because marijuana is a Class 1 drug, medical researchers have a very difficult time obtaining legally grown marijuana for study. So while there might be ample research out there, there could be far more, and given that marijuana is becoming legal in many states, much more study should be done. Then maybe we could get a judgement on Dr. Strouse’s rather strange assertion that “There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people.”
Wake up, medical community…. aging comes with pain. Want to keep us alive longer? Then figure out a way to minimize pain.
283
Ah, but don't you know that's the point...there's no evidence that anyone wants to keep us alive longer, especially if they can't make money off us.
1
Since you bring it up, LM, "they" really depends, doesn't it? I mean, the therapies the medical community have for cancer are impressive, and the longer you stay alive the bigger heroes they are: plenty of exposure in major publications, more money for Big Pharma in chemo and follow up meds, but nobody seems to care much about attendant pain resulting from treatment, which often persists, well, forever. Then, the government hopes you croak anyway because Medicare, which covers most of the cost, is too expensive.
Meanwhile, you're living so long you end up in a nursing home which is another bundle of money to be made by somebody. Quite a system, huh?
That's why, for heaven's sake, just let us grow our own pot, and when we end up in the nursing home just give it to us and stop splitting hairs about whether it's going to make us fall down and hit our heads.
Getting old and dying in this country is just a colossal pain. Right?
Meanwhile, you're living so long you end up in a nursing home which is another bundle of money to be made by somebody. Quite a system, huh?
That's why, for heaven's sake, just let us grow our own pot, and when we end up in the nursing home just give it to us and stop splitting hairs about whether it's going to make us fall down and hit our heads.
Getting old and dying in this country is just a colossal pain. Right?
2
Finally! I've often thought that letting my mother smoke marijuana in her assisted living facility instead of the cigarettes she smoked until she died might have lightened her mood. Edibles are simple to use, why not a cookie or piece of candy before bed to help with sleep and the aches and pains of aging? We are anxious to shove new medications down the throats of our aged citizens that have not necessarily been vetted more than a year or two, yet we don't want them to have a little pot? Try it, you might like it.
16
Amazing: A society that recognizes the benefits of a medicinal herb that helps seniors enjoy a better quality of life!
I'm sure the CEOs of big pharma have already been on the phone with Jeff Sessions instructing him to shut the medicinal marijuana industry down! I'm sure they reminded the new AG of their financial support in his past political campaigns!
I'm sure the CEOs of big pharma have already been on the phone with Jeff Sessions instructing him to shut the medicinal marijuana industry down! I'm sure they reminded the new AG of their financial support in his past political campaigns!
32
Today's pot is 20 times more potent than the stuff granny smoked in college. Hang on to your seat granny.
2
I was told that same thing 40 years ago. It's a hysterical response to scare people. Stop it.
14
What is the reason for this absurd comment? Relative potency is not really an issue when users can simply adjust the dose. It is probably important to let people know that they should approach this with caution, since overdosing is easily done with slow onset, long lasting oral dosing. Smoking has a quick onset, is surprisingly safe for the lungs and can let people determine the correct dose. This may be important since we have a robust gustatory memory system that makes us avoid things that have made us nauseous in the past.
3
The clinical testing has been done. There are many senior citizens out there who are using it to ease pain. And many have used it for years. If dosage is the only issue that should probably be worked out with their own doctors. It's the legality that is the problem. People are left in pain or doped up on far more potent and dangerous drugs just because they are legal. Everyone is worried about a lawsuit and not worrying about these people who are hurting. People we need to speak up for them. These are our grandparents and it will soon enough be us.
16
If cannabis was the miracle, side effect free, drug that the industry would have us believe, I would be the healthiest person on the planet; I'm not. Indeed this is anecdotal, much like a lot of the purported "science," on the subject. Recent studies suggest cannabis limits neuronal activity by interfering with mitochondrial respiration and also appears to perturb dopamine signaling. These and other studies use exclusively THC, which is only one of the biological mediators. It is possible that other compounds within the plant mediate THC's deleterious effects, but it is also possible they act synergistically or antagonistically. Research using multi variable analysis with quasi stable strains (and ratios of THC/CBD and the like) with the whole leaf are necessary to determine both long term safety and efficacy.
2
I believe the article sites certain conditions medical MJ helps...Perhaps you don't have them..My X for instance long time MJ smoker, has cancer which it does nothing for...but he uses it and reports it controls his pain..and nausea ..
1
And pharmaceuticals? They have some pretty profound effects too, don't they? Use of cannabis (these patients aren't smoking marijuana, they are taking tinctures or cannabis oil capsules) in the final stages of someone's life as a prophylactic is merciful. Obviously, you have some medical background. I have found doctors to be among the least merciful/compassionate people I've met.
2
"Accumulating scientific evidence has shown its effectiveness in treating certain medical conditions: neuropathic pain, severe muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis, unintentional weight loss, and vomiting and nausea from chemotherapy . . . most nursing homes do not openly sanction its use, and many doctors are reluctant to endorse pot use, saying not enough is known about the risks in the oldest age groups."
Although I can appreciate and understand the reluctance of many doctors to not endorse nor sanction medical weed for their patients (largely due to liability issues), my question to them would be - if it were you or one of your parents with chronic pain, would your attitude be different? The fact that medical weed DOES help improve the quality of their lives by reducing their constant pain and discomfort, AND the fact that they are in the final chapters of their lives, I think the controlled amounts of weed should really be up to the patients. I have a few of the medical issues described in this article and frankly, there isn't anything I wouldn't give to have one day, much less, one hour to be pain free.
I love this Hebrew Home at Riverdale. They really get it and focus on things that will help the residents fee better! In addition to administering medical weed to seniors, they also have therapy cats for dementia and senior prom night in May. They turn a blind eye towards residents who want to get personal and intimate with other residents.
17
As a physician who specializes in pain management, I would make sure my parents received the proper treatment for their pain which, based on the article, the people described in it aren't.
Glad to read that physicians like yourself really do care about your patients. Thanks for sharing.
2
Hopefully this will keep nursing homes from putting patients onto anti-psychotic meds. In general though, as a society, we are falling fast into a world of addiction and hopelessness. Legalizing pot is not helping.
1
I do not agree with the use of marijuana under any circumstances what so ever. Of course, if you are stoned you are not going to feel any pain. Of course if you’re high and have the munchies you are not going to suffer uncontrollable weight loss. So-called medical marijuana is just an excuse for druggies to get stoned. Marijuana use, like all illegal drug use, is nothing more than a sign of character weakness, a sign of moral weakness, a sign of spiritual weakness. I oppose it's use and I hope the DOJ under Sessions, our new attorney general, goes after it with full force and prosecutes both the dealer and the user to the fullest extent of the law. Thank you.
3
Everyone reading this is saying to themselves, "now here's a person I would love to eat lunch with." NOT!
5
You could really use a joint.
5
Do you drink alcohol?
Alcohol may be legal but it's dangerous, can be very bad for one's health, is used as an "excuse to get stoned", and generally makes people act like idiots.
Let's hope that common sense prevails and that the relatively (hands down, much less damaging than alcohol consumption) wholesome practice of using marijuana is increasingly decriminalized across the US.
Alcohol may be legal but it's dangerous, can be very bad for one's health, is used as an "excuse to get stoned", and generally makes people act like idiots.
Let's hope that common sense prevails and that the relatively (hands down, much less damaging than alcohol consumption) wholesome practice of using marijuana is increasingly decriminalized across the US.
2
One can only hope the pharmaceutical industry steps in and properly studies these potentially dangerous compounds so they can be isolated, purified, synthetically produced and safely provided to patients for $1,500/month. It's only fair considering these tinctures and tonics are displacing morphine and other pills. Won't anyone think of the shareholders?
22
In fact, there are already FDA cannabinoid products available for the treatment of the nausea and vomiting related to cancer treatment and the weight loss and poor appetite related to AIDS. These and MS are the only conditions for which there are controlled studies supporting their use.
Ah yes, turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream.
Cool cats before Miles invented the birth of Cool.
DD
Manhattan
Cool cats before Miles invented the birth of Cool.
DD
Manhattan
10
Doctors talk about the "risks" of taking Marijuana....how come they never name/describe a risk....what are they...????
26
The "risks" of marijuana are legal liability. For-profit medicine is not going to disturb its lucrative liaisons with big pharma.
5
“There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people, and some reason that it could be harmful,” he said.
Sorry, there is a lot of evidence. The simple truth is that US law makes it so difficult to study the drug effectively. However, the amount of anecdotal evidence supporting its effectiveness and relative safety is pretty overwhelming.
I am a senior who uses it daily for arthritis pain and for sleep (arthritis pain will wake one up). It is so much better than anything else out there and there is no evidence that it harms adults. There is no documented evidence that anyone has ever died of an overdose of marijuana. Ask the same question of opioids, benzodiazepines or alcohol and what do you get? They collectively kill thousands every month.
It really is time to remove it from Schedule I and let researchers really figure out what the true benefits and risks are in context of all the other drugs out there.
Sorry, there is a lot of evidence. The simple truth is that US law makes it so difficult to study the drug effectively. However, the amount of anecdotal evidence supporting its effectiveness and relative safety is pretty overwhelming.
I am a senior who uses it daily for arthritis pain and for sleep (arthritis pain will wake one up). It is so much better than anything else out there and there is no evidence that it harms adults. There is no documented evidence that anyone has ever died of an overdose of marijuana. Ask the same question of opioids, benzodiazepines or alcohol and what do you get? They collectively kill thousands every month.
It really is time to remove it from Schedule I and let researchers really figure out what the true benefits and risks are in context of all the other drugs out there.
74
Cannabis should be first line of defense & used way before death. It's non-lethal & can be used to get elderly (& youth) off pharmaceuticals which do more harm than good. Eye-rolling so hard at you all now.. but then again, we're way far ahead of you in Colorado
28
My husband lives with pain daily, he would do this in a heartbeat if our state would legalize it. The federal government should legalize nationwide!! No one has ever OD'd on weed!! But plenty of people have OD'd on legal prescription drugs or died.
28
"...and many doctors are reluctant to endorse pot use, saying not enough is known about the risks in the oldest age groups."
I'm not sure what the "risk" is to giving a 98-year-old person in terrible discomfort something that relieves her discomfort.
And I doubt the risks and side effects from cannabis are worse than the risks and side effects from Big Pharma's prescription drug cocktails.
I'm not sure what the "risk" is to giving a 98-year-old person in terrible discomfort something that relieves her discomfort.
And I doubt the risks and side effects from cannabis are worse than the risks and side effects from Big Pharma's prescription drug cocktails.
97
Well the doctors might give them appropriate medications for their pain which, based on this article, they aren't.
Such as? There's narcotics and there's non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, both with significant side effects.
She might climb into her wheel-chair, roll over to the Baskin Robbins and hold it up.
2
You can drink yourself to death and buy a deadly arsenal in America, but we 'just don't know enough ' about 'evil' mysterious marijuana.
Get the corrupt Puritans, the Police-Prison-Penal-Industrial Complex and the corrupt pharmaceutical company pirates out of America's constitutional right to "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness".
Have a toke and a smile.
Get the corrupt Puritans, the Police-Prison-Penal-Industrial Complex and the corrupt pharmaceutical company pirates out of America's constitutional right to "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness".
Have a toke and a smile.
431
" .. Have a toke and a smile."
Absolutely wrong.
Ms. Hu, older Americans take a variety of pharms -- Metformin, Lipitor, anti-cholesterol, baby aspirin, etc. How those pharms interact with alcohol is well-known.
How they interact is medical MJ is NOT well-known, at this point. That is called "science." As in, "facts" and "truth." Which "trial lawyers" love to cite, when suing caretakers and nursing homes.
Going to use medical MJ? OK, sign this 47-page legal waiver, we don't want to pay for your choices. Thanks.
Absolutely wrong.
Ms. Hu, older Americans take a variety of pharms -- Metformin, Lipitor, anti-cholesterol, baby aspirin, etc. How those pharms interact with alcohol is well-known.
How they interact is medical MJ is NOT well-known, at this point. That is called "science." As in, "facts" and "truth." Which "trial lawyers" love to cite, when suing caretakers and nursing homes.
Going to use medical MJ? OK, sign this 47-page legal waiver, we don't want to pay for your choices. Thanks.
Let me get this straight. Booze and tobacco products, both of which are well documented in the causation of serious health problems are okay, but pot which can ameliorate physical and mental pain is not okay. Does this make any sense? I was thinking that we were making serious progress on this issue, but with the recent bizarre changes in Washington my hopes are fading.
317
The sense is that the DEA has called it such a harmful drug for so many years, and there has been so much money made by people and entities that make a fortune enforcing the marijuana laws (including private prisons), that now they don't want to, or don't know how to, back it out.
Thats why the FED is dragging its feet correcting the laws on something that everyone knows should have never been illegal in the first place. In Texas, you can now tell how embarrassed they are when they announce a “pot” bust and realize, like everyone, how ridiculous they sound.
Thats why the FED is dragging its feet correcting the laws on something that everyone knows should have never been illegal in the first place. In Texas, you can now tell how embarrassed they are when they announce a “pot” bust and realize, like everyone, how ridiculous they sound.
10
"Does this make any sense?"
It is futile to look for things which make sense by our government. Did Prohibition made sense? Did invasion of Iraq made sense?
It is futile to look for things which make sense by our government. Did Prohibition made sense? Did invasion of Iraq made sense?
2
Dr. Thomas Strouse, a psychiatrist and palliative care doctor at the University of California, Los Angeles, said that just as sleeping and pain medications could harm older people, marijuana could possibly make them confused, dizzy or more likely to fall.
“There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people, and some reason that it could be harmful,” he said.
Except of course all the evidence that it is helpful. I am truly sick of the medical 'experts' who weigh in on this subject while knowing nothing about it. Dizzy and confused describes Dr. Strouse, if he knew one iota about the subject he would know that medical marijuana contains very low levels of THC, the compound that produces the 'stoned' effect, in some cases the THC level is zero. CBD is the active medical compound that these strains are bred for and it doesn't get you high, but it does have very measurable palliative effects which anyone who knows the slightest thing about it can attest.
“There is no evidence that it is particularly helpful to older people, and some reason that it could be harmful,” he said.
Except of course all the evidence that it is helpful. I am truly sick of the medical 'experts' who weigh in on this subject while knowing nothing about it. Dizzy and confused describes Dr. Strouse, if he knew one iota about the subject he would know that medical marijuana contains very low levels of THC, the compound that produces the 'stoned' effect, in some cases the THC level is zero. CBD is the active medical compound that these strains are bred for and it doesn't get you high, but it does have very measurable palliative effects which anyone who knows the slightest thing about it can attest.
232
Ruth cannot walk anyway, so no danger of falling.
5
"marijuana could possibly make them confused, dizzy or more likely to fall."
Let them use a walker instead!
Let them use a walker instead!
Thanks.
Still can't comprehend why Dr. Thomas Strouse, MD @ UCLA would say something so clearly erroneous and so easily disproved.
Still can't comprehend why Dr. Thomas Strouse, MD @ UCLA would say something so clearly erroneous and so easily disproved.
2
'Not enough is known' always seems to tun into never. Big Pharma hates pot, there's no Big Money in it for them. Leave the old people alone, they're getting relief that their foot dragging doctors can't provide.
354
Big Pharma hates pot,
And TV is full of advertisements by lawyers to get compensation from the Big Pharma for the dangerous drugs. Once a doctor prescribed me a drug for knee pain. I read the instructions which said "also you can use a cane" and I immediately bought a cane which solved my problem (Now I have a $80 walker). Weeks later this drug was taken out of the shelves because some people taking this drug died. Narrow escape!
And TV is full of advertisements by lawyers to get compensation from the Big Pharma for the dangerous drugs. Once a doctor prescribed me a drug for knee pain. I read the instructions which said "also you can use a cane" and I immediately bought a cane which solved my problem (Now I have a $80 walker). Weeks later this drug was taken out of the shelves because some people taking this drug died. Narrow escape!
2
It's not just Big Pharma, who would rather we take their opioids, Big Liquor too. Here in NY the governor and state legislators accept large donations from the liquor industry. The governor calls pot a gateway drug and ignores that beer is what first turns on many teenagers. Why does he say that? Follow the money.
http://www.fooddive.com/news/ny-wine-and-beer-industry-receives-boost-fr...
http://www.nabca.org/News/NewsItem.aspx?id=29243
http://www.fooddive.com/news/ny-wine-and-beer-industry-receives-boost-fr...
http://www.nabca.org/News/NewsItem.aspx?id=29243
The real question-- the heart of the issue-- is that medical marijuana is poorly researched, still illegal (or severely limited in some states, e.g. New Jersey), and operates under a cloud of Reefer Madness paranoia. And despite its legality in some states, many aspects of possession, manufacture, and distribution are contrary to Federal laws, to the extent that many are concerned about how Jeff Sessions as Attorney General will act.
When one of biggest crises is addiction to opioids-- which are legal-- isn't it time we started investigating whether or not medical marijuana can be helpful and safe?
When one of biggest crises is addiction to opioids-- which are legal-- isn't it time we started investigating whether or not medical marijuana can be helpful and safe?
301
you cannot OD on Cannabis. end of story.
1
It won't be long before Jeff Sessions may be looking for some pain relief himself.
Let's see how he feels about its legality then.
Let's see how he feels about its legality then.
2
I strongly disagree with legalizing marijuana/cannabis for recreational use and only think its medicinal value are products with high CBD and as low THC content as possible. However, there must be a way to downgrade it to a Schedule 2 (or II) drug or find another way for more research to be conducted on its risks and benefits as medicine.
1
I have no experience with it or no idea if it works or not, but why does it need to cost so much? $240 a month for something that was once used to make rope?
42
It's because you only used to smoke leaves, stems, and seeds. Now it's nothing but the best buds. What you used to smoke goes into the city dump these days.
3
That cost you mention is far in excess of what I pay.
4
Couldn't plants be grown in a bit if green space? Weed grew along the New Jersey turnpike in the 60s. Some arts and crafts classes could become Arts and Science with cannibis cultivation as the goal. Vaping from buds perhaps. No first-hand knowledge but something useful that eliminates the factory approach and cost.
3
Its too bad that so many restrictions apply. You have to be very ill to qualify even though it can treat many less serious conditions.
28
God forbid Grandma is not in pain. She might live a little longer and we don't want that. So we put up barriers like "is it safe" forever. Now if we are in pain and are working we have a host of pain medications available. Because we are paying taxes. We are producers. We are entitled to it. Not to mention the sooner grandma passes the faster we will get our inheritance. What a sick society we have become.
71
The real point here is that when an older person goes to the doctor's office, the doctor tells them that they are old, and he can do nothing except write yet another prescription for them-- many of which he doesn't bother to cross reference and the medicinal combinations start clashing and colliding. My sister, a trained nurse, has to clean out my elderly parent's medicine cabinet every couple of months because they are getting pills that in certain combinations are dangerous for them.
Pot would alleviate at least part of that.
Pot would alleviate at least part of that.
16
As a family, this past weekend we were discussing its possible use for my father who is a recent amputee at 85 (not from diabetes - so no worries about sugar munchies!) This article might help assuage his fears and help him in his decision to try it knowing that it is more common than he may have originally thought. Thank you for an informative and balanced article.
58
I have used medical marijuana for three years for chronic lower-back pain (and I used illegal marijuana for 40 years recreationally). During those illegal years, I smoked occasionally--never when working, never when driving, etc. It seemed always a pleasant drug, used sparingly.
With the legal marijuana, the potency is greater than I recall from week bought in furtive encounters in alleys, and I needed some experimentation to determine the appropriate amount to smoke for pain control while avoiding being constantly zonked.
It certainly provides pain relief, and I'm far more at ease with it than with high-cost prescription opioids, which I no longer use. MM is inexpensive and effective for me, and even my doctors at the VA seem to approve of its use.
With the legal marijuana, the potency is greater than I recall from week bought in furtive encounters in alleys, and I needed some experimentation to determine the appropriate amount to smoke for pain control while avoiding being constantly zonked.
It certainly provides pain relief, and I'm far more at ease with it than with high-cost prescription opioids, which I no longer use. MM is inexpensive and effective for me, and even my doctors at the VA seem to approve of its use.
8
Whether medicinal or recreational, the point may soon be moot. Our new Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, is a law-and-order guy... and I respect that. So unless, and until, Congress sees fit to remove the Federal ban on marijuana, he will be inclined to enforce existing Federal law. I believe that will, at least temporarily, reverse the progress that's been made at the state level.
"no nursing home had specifically lost financing or been penalized for permitting the use of marijuana".
That could soon change.
"no nursing home had specifically lost financing or been penalized for permitting the use of marijuana".
That could soon change.
17
Lost cause.
2
You respect alcohol supremacist bigotry? Sorry to hear it. You can respect the law all you want, but if you want other folks to respect the law, don't pass such obscenely unjust laws. If you want good community-police relations, don't ask the cops to enforce such a perverse law. If you can use killer alcohol, we can most certainly use far safer cannabis. This idiotic war on cannabis is nothing but a waste of precious time and precious money, blighting the lives of millions of good people, and destructive to national harmony and unity.
4
Until the big pharma can profit from pot it will be looked down upon. CLL patient here, diagnosed in 2010 and yet to go in for my 1st chemo! I still work full time, my white cell count has remained steady in the 30K range and all the joint pain and other side effects of the CLL have subsided along with my daily marijuana intake.
As with everything else in this country, it's all about the money and only about the money.
So now I can worry about losing my ACA insurance as well as affordable pain medication. Thanks Donald. If Donald had to endure what 90% of Americans had to put up with regarding their health and health insurance he'd be smoking daily.
As with everything else in this country, it's all about the money and only about the money.
So now I can worry about losing my ACA insurance as well as affordable pain medication. Thanks Donald. If Donald had to endure what 90% of Americans had to put up with regarding their health and health insurance he'd be smoking daily.
124
@KC - As the former Swedish Prime Minister indicated, Donald must be smoking something already.
4
The essential oils can be readily enough extracted and purified to a set of about 20 per Mechoulam et al, After that it would be simple enough to mix them with popular vape preps. I suggest that there are plenty of young folks out there with enough boatloads of the scientific education and technical virtuosity to be looking into this as we speak. Even better than using battery powered heat to vaporize the selected oils would be the common inhaler containing them. No one would know if it was an asthma inhaler or what. And who would care. This has been the fantasy for over 45 years.
25
Well, as I have travel 3-4 times a year to a neighboring state where this "illicit" substance is legally available, I purchase cannabis infused ointments for my and my spouse's arthritic pain.
These ointments, depending on the percentage of CBD to provide relief without the need for liver-killing legal prescriptions.
Hopefully someday the politicians will quit listening to big-pharma and listen to we the people and legalize marijuana.
But, there is the criers that continue to attach a stigma to marijuana as they sip their alcoholic (legal substance), and smoke their cigars (another legal drug).
These ointments, depending on the percentage of CBD to provide relief without the need for liver-killing legal prescriptions.
Hopefully someday the politicians will quit listening to big-pharma and listen to we the people and legalize marijuana.
But, there is the criers that continue to attach a stigma to marijuana as they sip their alcoholic (legal substance), and smoke their cigars (another legal drug).
146
Hmmmmm, perhaps what actually is meant by her comment, “People are using it, and we need know how to respond” really means, people are using it, and we need know how to control and profit from it.
181
Good call. You nailed it!
5
I know many people over the age of 75 who SMOKE it. It has NOT been studied enough here. For people who do not have lung conditions, smoking is a more predictable way to get the dosage required. In New York medical pot can't be smoked. It has been studied in the Netherlands for some time. New York State should just legalize it and tax it. Of course big pharma might lose a bit of money.
53
For Ms. Brunn, the marijuana pills (cost $240) have worked so well she has cut back on her other pain medication, morphine (which probably cost about $10).
No personal objection to legal marijuana, but it does not appear to be cost effective.
No personal objection to legal marijuana, but it does not appear to be cost effective.
5
But it is non addictive, so therefore healthier. My mother does not qualify for medical marijuana. But she takes doses of pain meds daily and is paranoid about becoming additive. So much so that she would rather live in pain.
I would much prefer medical marijuana was more available and less costly. However, availability at this time is more important for our family.
I would much prefer medical marijuana was more available and less costly. However, availability at this time is more important for our family.
4
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Cannabis medicine can be very cheap, when grown outdoors, it's not that much different from growing any other herb, costing no more than a few bucks an ounce in the U.S. (much less than that in Mexico). It's only gov't restrictions that make sun grown weed so high priced.
Big pharma lackeys like Cuomo are intent on pharmatizing cannabis, turning a cheap medicine into a highly restricted one that big pharma can profit from.
I really question your estimate for a month's worth of morphine. It might not cost the patient much, but I bet the government pays a bundle for a month's worth of morphine.
Big pharma lackeys like Cuomo are intent on pharmatizing cannabis, turning a cheap medicine into a highly restricted one that big pharma can profit from.
I really question your estimate for a month's worth of morphine. It might not cost the patient much, but I bet the government pays a bundle for a month's worth of morphine.
5
People who have genuine pain and take the prescribed dosage have little to fear from addiction according to the pain specialists I saw a few years ago. He said and I agree, 'pain does not cure anything'. Generic morphine and similar opioids cost less then $1 per day. Marijuana is not physically addictive but clearly psychologically addictive (I know a few stoners) and not without side effects. No reason for your mom to suffer.
1
Medical use of marijuana has been restricted by the absurd government war on drugs. This is an example of why Americans don't trust our government. Cannibis has been used as medicine for centuries. Unlike alcohol, tobacco, and presription drugs there is no significant harmful down side. This is NOT a schedule 1 drug. Of course (except for CBD oils) none of these drugs should be used by children. Marijuana is great medicine for so many things. Maybe our beloved pharmaceutical companies are stopping it's use, along with our for profit prison system.
89
The instant Monsanto figures out how to patent the seeds it will be legalized.
5
Listen if I get incarcerated in a Nursing Home they better have Pot vapors in the ventilation system!
86
I wonder if Marijuana can help the elderly with their sleep issues, as well.
43
Yes
6
Maybe. But having taken care of many elderly relatives, nocturnal sleep problems are generally threefold: too many or too long daytime naps, having to get up often in the middle of the night to relieve oneself, and not having done enough mental or physical exercise during the day to become tired. Interesting that infants with nocturnal sleep problems have some of the same issues. Resolve those, and adults will sleep better too.
4
Yes. But it's too late for my mother and millions of other people.
Medical marijuana prohibition is criminal behavior, it's a form of assault.
Medical marijuana prohibition is criminal behavior, it's a form of assault.
1