Like many other states that have legalized medical marijuana for medicinal use, New York enforces certain restrictions on who exactly can receive it. Patients must be officially diagnosed with at least one of the 12 disorders and diseases approved by the state, which includes cancer.

Yes, cancer patients who are New York State residents can receive medical marijuana treatments. To do so requires a prescription from a certified medical professional. 

Only medical professionals who are authorized by New York—which doesn’t just include the five boroughs, but also Long Island, Westchester and the rest of the state—can prescribe medical marijuana. Authorization is contingent upon medical professionals proving they're either a licensed/certified and actively practicing physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner. He or she is also required to complete a four-hour course approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), and register with the NYSDOH’s medical marijuana program.

Learn more about these requirements for doctors, here. 

MEDICAL MARIJUANA HAS SHOWN TO HELP CANCER PATIENTS IN SEVERAL WAYS.

Dr. Amir Herman, D.O. of East Northport, N.Y.-based Natural Pain Solutions shares that some cancer patients “who are in active treatment with chemotherapy and radiation” utilize the drug to help with pain. Even if the medical marijuana doesn’t alleviate the pain fully, patients report that they typically experience significantly less discomfort than before.

Those undergoing cancer treatments may suffer from nausea and loss of appetite, as a result of the chemo drugs used. This could result in weight loss, and increase discomfort. Medical marijuana may actually reduce or eliminate such symptoms, due to its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration.

Medical marijuana contains two key ingredients: THC and cannabidiol (CBD). The former specifically targets the muscles and aids in relieving pain and inflammation in the body, as explained by the nonprofit American Cancer Society. It also has a positive impact on a patient’s appetite in these types of cases, which, again, helps patients feel better, maintain a healthy weight, and improve their overall quality of life.

“scientists reported that THC and other cannabinoids such as CBD slow growth and/or cause death in certain types of cancer cells growing in lab dishes.”

The American Cancer Society highlights ongoing research into marijuana's effects on cancer. They recently stated: “scientists reported that THC and other cannabinoids such as CBD slow growth and/or cause death in certain types of cancer cells growing in lab dishes.” Furthermore, “some animal studies also suggest certain cannabinoids may slow growth and reduce spread of some forms of cancer."

Medical marijuana is not recommended as a treatment for cancer itself, rather, to is is used to help manage or cope with its side effects.

For more information, please consult with a medical professional authorized to prescribe medical marijuana in New York State.

The Northport Wellness Center works closely with Natural Pain Solutions, a medical practice located on Long Island that specializes in medical marijuana treatment. Contact them today to find out more about medical marijuana for cancer.