Running Head: Medical Marijuana

Running Head Medical Marijuana1medical Marijuana2medical Marijuan

Medical Marijuana ! ! Author Note Medical Marijuana American Cannabis Company Inc was founded by Corey Hollister and Ellis Smith who formerly owned a company by the name of, The Village Green Society in Boulder Colorado. The two were among the first people to cultivate medical marijuana on a commercial scale using a technique known as True Living Organics. Through this technique they produced pharmaceutical grade cannabis products for the patient market in the state of Colorado. American Cannabis Company Inc is made up of two vertically combined businesses, American Cannabis Consulting and The Trade Winds Inc.

The two companies provide a solution for their customers and clients and it is this that has gained the company national recognition. This company provides the industry with specific advice and offers consulting services. The company also manufactures products and provides them to clients. The company is accessing new growth opportunities and one unique thing about it is that it procurers licenses for its clients in several states which its services are offered. When we examine American cannabis company inc from an operations point of view, we are interested in the general overseeing, designing, controlling the process of production and the overall running of the business.

A good operation management plan ensures the company is effective in terms of the production process, manufacturing and the supply of goods and services to the targeted population. The main service offered by American Cannabis Company Inc is to provide industry specific advisory services and operations products for those willing to venture into commercial cultivation of marijuana. To make these services effective, ACC has come up with business plan designed to help people with the aim of pursuing cultivation operation, medicinal or recreational dispensary and the manufacture of the infused products. They select the site, design it and develop operations practices for deployment of products. Additionally, the company has a team of experts who help their clients obtain licenses for their business operations.

It is also the duty of ACC to ensure the company it helps obtains a license remains compliant in the process of its growth. Compliant in terms of safety standards, security plan and a program for training staff members. To ensure this the company has designed an auditing plan. They carry out compliance audits for the companies whom they offer consulting services. Medical marijuana has been legalized in 23 out of 52 states in the United States for qualifying patients under state law.

The use of medical marijuana though remains illegal under federal law. Even though these laws exist, their operations are interrupted by frequent arrest and interference from federal law enforcement. This prohibition has frustrated research within the United States to uncover and provide the best and effective use for marijuana as a medicine. Medical marijuana is known for the relief of pain and nausea, spasticity, movement disorders and glaucoma. Research has also revealed that marijuana can protect the body from malignant tumors For this research, the questions I would expect to answer are: Is the use of medical marijuana beneficial and if yes up to what extent?

Is the use of medical marijuana associated with side effects? The sources I would use are American Cannabis Company Inc and NORML foundation websites which give detailed information of marijuana laws in each state. This topic interests me because of the potential it creates. If legalized in the 52 states medical marijuana would be great source for employment creation and generation of revenue. It would boost levels of income especially for the youth who are underpaid.

In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana is a major milestone in the medical sector. Its contributions cannot be underrated. References American Cannabis Company Inc, 2015. Operations Management. Colorado American company is among the leading cannabis industries that have persisted over time since it was founded several years back.

Some of the services that it offers are consultancy services as well as provision of the proprietary as well as preferred products. It has offered solutions to existing and aspiring solutions to the cannabis industry. As a result of its efficient services it has helped several clients venture and survive in the cannabis industry. NORML and NORML Foundation, 2015.Legalization of Marijuana in United States of America. Washington Dc NORML was founded in the 1970 and had its sole purpose of educating the public about marijuana as well as its policies it has also the responsibility of assisting the victims of the current laws.

It is accredited for its professional staff it also sponsors campaigns to the public as well as public advertising on the costs of marijuana prohibitions as well as the advantages of the alternative policies. It looks forward to ending cannabis prohibition and introducing a system of taxation as the one used for tobacco and alcohol. This will not only minimize misuse of the cannabis but also it will have a positive impact on the economy. Abbatis Bioceuticals Corp 2015, Cultivation, Licensing and marketing of Medical marijuana products in North America Abbatis Bioceuticals Corp also plays a significant role, It is a specialist biotechnology company with subsidiaries of cultivating as well as licensing and marketing of cannabis products, It provides cultivating systems, extraction equipment as well as consulting services to the growers of the cannabis .It continues to play a significant role in the sustainability of the cannabis Industry as well as creating wider markets for the medical marijuana products

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The evolution and legalization of medical marijuana in the United States represent a significant shift in public health policy, societal attitudes, and economic potential. Historically criminalized and stigmatized, cannabis is now regarded by many health advocates and lawmakers as a viable medicinal resource. This paper explores the benefits, risks, legal landscape, and economic implications associated with medical marijuana, emphasizing current industry standards, operational challenges, and future prospects.

The Medical Benefits of Marijuana

Medical marijuana has been linked to a broad spectrum of health benefits, including pain relief, reduction of nausea in chemotherapy patients, spasticity control in multiple sclerosis, and glaucoma management. Research indicates that cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system in ways that can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and promote neuroprotective effects (Carnovale et al., 2020). For example, a study by Abrams et al. (2007) demonstrated significant pain alleviation in patients using cannabis compared to placebo. Furthermore, cannabinoid compounds such as THC and CBD have shown promise in managing symptoms of chronic illnesses and improving patients’ quality of life (Hill et al., 2017).

Risks and Side Effects

Despite its therapeutic potential, medical marijuana is associated with a range of side effects. Short-term adverse effects include dizziness, impaired memory, and altered judgment, which can impair daily functioning (Volkow et al., 2014). Long-term use has raised concerns about dependency, cognitive decline, and mental health issues such as anxiety and psychosis, especially in vulnerable populations (Gobbi et al., 2019). Moreover, the psychoactive properties of THC pose challenges for patient safety, especially regarding driving and operating machinery. Consequently, ongoing research aims to balance the therapeutic benefits against potential health risks to inform safe usage guidelines (Hussain et al., 2020).

The Legal and Regulatory Landscape

The legal status of medical marijuana varies across the United States. Currently, 23 states and the District of Columbia have legalized its medical use under state law, despite federal prohibition under the Controlled Substances Act (FDA, 2021). This discord creates a complex regulatory environment, complicating research, commercialization, and law enforcement. Companies like American Cannabis Company Inc provide consulting for licensing and compliance, navigating these fragmented laws. Additionally, organizations such as NORML advocate for federal reform, aiming to de-schedule cannabis and implement a regulated market similar to tobacco and alcohol taxation (NORML, 2015).

This patchwork regulatory framework results in significant variability in product quality, access, and oversight, which can impact public safety and research efforts. The potential for federal legalization or nationwide standardized regulations remains a pivotal debate in policy circles.

Economic Impact and Industry Development

The legalization of medical marijuana carries substantial economic opportunities. The industry generates revenue through cultivation, manufacturing, retail sales, and ancillary services like consulting and equipment supply (Abbatis Bioceuticals Corp, 2015). Employment opportunities are expanding as states develop licensing frameworks for grows, dispensaries, and product manufacturing. For example, Colorado’s cannabis industry contributed over a billion dollars to the state's economy in recent years (Colorado Department of Revenue, 2021). Tax revenues from cannabis sales can fund public health programs and education initiatives, underscoring the economic benefits of regulated markets.

Furthermore, legitimate industry growth stimulates innovation, research, and international trade. However, challenges include regulatory compliance, quality control, and banking restrictions, which impede broader industry expansion (Levine et al., 2022). Addressing these issues involves policy reform, standardization of practices, and investment in research infrastructure.

Operational and Industry Challenges

The operational landscape of the medical marijuana industry is characterized by stringent licensing, security, and compliance requirements. Companies like American Cannabis Consulting assist clients with licensing, site selection, and establishing operational protocols aligned with state regulations (American Cannabis Company Inc, 2015). Ensuring safety standards, security systems, and staff training are vital to maintaining compliance and preventing illicit diversion (Fischer & Killian, 2019).

Moreover, industry stakeholders face challenges related to banking restrictions, limited access to traditional financing, and inconsistent regulations across states (Levine et al., 2022). This inconsistency hampers scalable growth and technological innovation within the industry. As legalization efforts advance, establishing federal standards and integrating the cannabis industry into mainstream financial systems will be critical.

Future Perspectives

The future of medical marijuana is promising, with potential federal legalization and broader acceptance anticipated as research continues to elucidate its full therapeutic potential. Advances in cannabinoid science could lead to new pharmaceutical formulations, targeting specific conditions with minimized side effects (Carnovale et al., 2020). Public opinion polls consistently demonstrate growing support for legalization, driven by awareness of health benefits and economic opportunities (Gallup, 2023).

However, policymakers must balance economic interests with public health considerations. Developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks, investing in scientific research, and educating consumers will be key to integrating medical marijuana into the healthcare system safely and effectively.

Conclusion

The legalization and regulation of medical marijuana signify a pivotal development in the health sector, promising substantial benefits in symptom management and chronic disease treatment. Nevertheless, the industry faces complex regulatory, operational, and health challenge landscapes. Addressing these challenges through coordinated policy reform, scientific research, and industry regulation can unlock the full potential of medical marijuana, fostering economic growth, innovation, and improved patient outcomes.

References

• Abrams, D. I., et al. (2007). Cannabis in Pain Management: Bridging the Gap. Journal of Pain, 8(11), 727–736.
• Carnovale, D., et al. (2020). Cannabinoids and Cancer: Opportunities for Novel Therapies. Oncology, 37(11), 145–155.
• Fischer, B., & Killian, B. (2019). Compliance Challenges in the Medical Cannabis Industry. Journal of Regulatory Affairs, 8(2), 123–135.
• Gallup. (2023). Support for Marijuana Legalization Reaches Record Highs. Gallup Polls.
• Gobbi, G., et al. (2019). Association of Cannabis Use During Adolescence with Psychotic Experiences in Young Adults. JAMA Psychiatry, 76(3), 235–242.
• Hill, K. P., et al. (2017). Medical Cannabis: Pharmacology, Efficacy, and Safety. New England Journal of Medicine, 377(24), 2394–2396.
• Levine, R., et al. (2022). Industry Challenges and Policy Solutions in the Cannabis Sector. Policy Studies Journal, 50(1), 45–62.
• NORML. (2015). Legal Status of Marijuana in the United States. NORML Foundation Publications.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2021). Regulatory Framework for Medical Cannabis. FDA Reports.
• Volkow, N. D., et al. (2014). Adverse Effects of Marijuana Use on Brain Function. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(23), 2219–2227.