Risks in Using Cannabis
Kevin Hill, MD, MHS, McLean Hospital
Although only 9% of Cannabis users become dependent, Dr. Hill recommended talking to all patients who use Cannabis about the risks, such as problems with work, school, and relationships. When treating patients with Cannabis use disorder, explore reasons that the individual would want to stop using Cannabis, take a careful history, and most importantly, build a good therapeutic alliance.
The most robust data for medical Cannabis is for chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis; however, there are more than 70 indications among the 28 states that allow its use. Dr. Hill suggests having a written policy, engage in conversation about why the patient wants medical Cannabis, be open to evaluating such a patient, and consider treating the patient’s symptoms with traditional modalities.