Discussion 10 Week 13 Trace The History Of Cannabis Use And

Discussion 10 Week 13trace The History Of Cannabis Use And Its Effect

Discussion 10 Week 13trace The History Of Cannabis Use And Its Effect

Discussion 10 WEEK 13 Trace the history of cannabis use and its effect on health (select one current article from a nursing journal on the benefits and/or hazards of smoking cannabis). 1. Who are the stakeholders both in support of and in opposition to medicinal cannabis use? 2. What does current medical/nursing research say regarding the increasing use of medicinal cannabis. 3. What are the policy and future practice implications based on the current prescribed rate of cannabis?

Paper For Above instruction

The history of cannabis use dates back thousands of years, with its origins rooted in ancient civilizations where it was utilized both medicinally and recreationally. Throughout history, cannabis has been valued for its psychoactive properties and potential therapeutic benefits. In modern times, especially over the past few decades, there has been a significant shift in the legal and social perception of cannabis, largely influenced by evolving scientific research and changing policy landscapes. The legalization and medicalization of cannabis have prompted increased scrutiny of its effects on health, leading to debates among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public.

Stakeholders supporting medicinal cannabis include patients seeking relief from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, PTSD, and other health conditions. Patient advocacy groups and some healthcare providers advocate for access to cannabis based on evidence suggesting its efficacy for symptom management (Lucas & Walsh, 2017). Additionally, pharmaceutical companies and entrepreneurs are interested in developing cannabis-derived medications, viewing it as a profitable and promising sector. Conversely, opponents include certain medical professionals, regulatory agencies, and policymakers concerned about potential adverse health effects, such as dependency, cognitive impairment, and mental health issues (Hill, 2019). Public health organizations like the CDC often caution against unregulated use due to insufficient long-term safety data and the risk of misuse.

Current medical and nursing research provides a nuanced view of medicinal cannabis, emphasizing both its therapeutic potential and risks. Studies indicate that cannabis contains bioactive compounds such as THC and CBD, which may offer benefits for pain relief, nausea, muscle spasticity, and inflammation (Jaffe & Wilkins, 2020). However, research also highlights potential hazards, including cognitive impairment, dependency, impaired driving, and mental health issues such as psychosis, especially in vulnerable populations (Volkow et al., 2019). The increased prevalence of medicinal cannabis use necessitates rigorous clinical trials to establish safety, dosing, and efficacy parameters.

Policy implications of the rising prescription rates include the need for standardized regulations, quality control, and monitoring systems to prevent misuse and diversion. Legal frameworks vary widely across jurisdictions, impacting healthcare providers' ability to prescribe and monitor cannabis use responsibly (Wadsworth et al., 2020). Future practice considerations involve integrating evidence-based guidelines into clinical protocols, educating healthcare professionals on cannabis pharmacology and safety, and ensuring equitable access for patients who could benefit while minimizing harm. As cannabis legalization expands, ongoing research and adaptive policies will be essential to balance patient needs with public health concerns.

References

  • Hill, K. P. (2019). Medical marijuana for treatment of chronic pain and other medical conditions: A review of the evidence. Western Journal of Emergency Medicine, 20(6), 1008–1014.
  • Jaffe, A., & Wilkins, L. (2020). Cannabis evidence review: Therapeutic implications. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 29(3-4), 448–460.
  • Lucas, P., & Walsh, Z. (2017). Medical cannabis access and use among people with HIV/AIDS. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 75(1), 101–107.
  • Volkow, N. D., Hampson, A. J., & Baler, R. D. (2019). Widespread use of cannabis for medical reasons: Benefits and risks. JAMA, 321(2), 131–132.
  • Wadsworth, E., et al. (2020). Regulation, policy, and safety of medicinal cannabis use: A review. International Journal of Drug Policy, 76, 102637.

Related Assignments