So marijuana is now legal in the state of Ohio….what does that mean for me as a student here at The Ohio State University?
Can I get marijuana prescribed by a provider at the Student Life Student Health Center (SLSHS)?
I haven’t heard of anyone who has been prescribed medical marijuana yet.
As of September 8, state licensure, registration, and certification are required for Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Control Program. Ohio law requires the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program to be fully operational by this date.
Can I get a prescription from any doctor?
“The federal government prohibits doctors from being able to prescribe marijuana. Instead, patients must have a recommendation from a certified physician. Physicians interested in recommending the use of medical marijuana for patients must apply for a certificate to recommend from the State Medical Board of Ohio.” The Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program
Many students will not qualify by age alone, as one must be at least 21 years old.
Physicians at the Wilce Student Health Center will not be certified. They will not be prescribing medical marijuana. That being said, it is very important that patients always disclose all supplements or other medications they are prescribed when seeking medical care. Be sure to let your SLSHS provider know if you are taking medical marijuana (or using recreational marijuana).
What kind of medical problems can be treated with marijuana?
The State of Ohio Medical Board has a defined list of medical diagnoses that qualify for treatment with medical marijuana.
The most common use is for pain control, especially nerve pain. Medical marijuana can also be helpful with certain types of nausea, muscle spasticity (as with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease), and glaucoma.
There are some initial studies that indicate marijuana may have a place in treating post traumatic stress disorder.
Keep in mind…
Marijuana is still illegal per federal law. The Federal Drug Free Schools and Community Act of 1989 prohibits the use of drugs (including marijuana) on campus if the school is receiving any federal funds.
We are in need of more medical research in the benefits and side effects/complications of marijuana use.
Just like with alcohol, one should not drive while using marijuana (medical or recreational).
The smoke from marijuana has toxic chemicals just like tobacco smoking.
In a student population already struggling with anxiety, depression and attention deficit disorders, the use of marijuana is likely to compound the issues. There is also increased risk of psychosis and impairments in learning, perception and judgement.
Kathryn McKee, M.D.