Cannabis as a medicinal product has gained increasing importance in recent years. Especially in Germany, where medical cannabis has been available for prescription for certain conditions since 2017, it offers many patients a valuable alternative treatment option. But what exactly makes cannabis and its cannabinoids so effective, and how does one become a cannabis patient? This article provides a comprehensive overview.
What are cannabinoids and how do they work?
Cannabinoids are the active ingredients of the cannabis plant. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) . While THC has a psychoactive effect and is responsible for the "intoxicating" effect, CBD does not have intoxicating effects but can have calming and anti-inflammatory effects. The therapeutic properties of these substances make them particularly interesting for medical purposes:
- THC can help with chronic pain, nausea and loss of appetite and has an antispasmodic effect.
- CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and can reduce anxiety.
Cannabis medicinal products are available either in the form of dried flowers or as standardized extracts. The individual effect can vary depending on the type and dosage.
Areas of application of medical cannabis
Cannabis is primarily prescribed for serious illnesses where conventional therapies are ineffective or cause severe side effects. The most common indications include:
- Chronic pain
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- epilepsy
- Sleep disorders
- Depression and anxiety
- Loss of appetite and nausea
In addition, studies have shown that medical cannabis can be supportive in various other medical conditions.
How do you become a cannabis patient?
In Germany, the prescription of cannabis is subject to certain conditions. Essentially, the condition must be classified as serious, and the treating physician must provide a reasoned assessment of the effectiveness of cannabis. Only then can cannabis therapy be considered.
A guide to the patient journey and all the necessary steps to become a cannabis patient can be found here: How to Become a Cannabis Patient ? A Guide to Medical Treatment with Cannabis . This guide explains in detail what requirements must be met and how health insurance covers the costs.
Why is medical cannabis prescription-only?
State control of the cultivation and prescription of medical cannabis ensures that the products are free of contaminants and meet standardized quality standards. The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) is responsible for monitoring cultivation to ensure the highest standards.
Conclusion: Cannabis as a valuable therapeutic alternative
Cannabis and its cannabinoids offer a promising treatment option for patients suffering from serious illnesses. The option to use herbal medicines can be particularly helpful when traditional medications fail to deliver the desired results. The process of becoming a cannabis patient may seem complicated at first, but a structured guide will help you understand the necessary steps and reap the benefits of medical cannabis.
