How to Choose the Right Product for Pain, Anxiety, or Sleep

Many people use medical marijuana to manage pain, anxiety, and sleep problems. But with so many strains and products to choose from, how do you know which is best? Here’s what you need to know to help make your decision easier.

Millions of Americans use medical marijuana to manage health issues, such as trouble sleeping, chronic pain, and anxiety. The marijuana plant, often called “flower,” and products like edibles, tinctures, and ointments provide a natural alternative to over-the-counter and prescription medications.

However, if you’ve only recently obtained your medical marijuana prescription, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed when walking into a dispensary.

The good news is that a little bit of education can help you confidently make the right decision for your condition and symptoms. At MediCalm, board-certified physician Kimberlee Park, DO, regularly counsels patients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey on which strains and products make the most sense based on their health history.

Here are some practical tips for choosing the right medical marijuana product for your needs.

Consider the symptom you want to treat

It’s important to identify which symptom (or symptoms) you want to treat before you go shopping. Certain strains of marijuana may be more effective at treating chronic pain, promoting sleep, or stimulating appetite, so it’s important not to select something at random.

In this post, we’re focusing on three specific symptoms. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Pain

Research shows that products containing both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are most effective at pain management. THC is what causes the “high” associated with marijuana, while CBD is non-intoxicating.

These enhanced benefits are thought to result from the entourage effect, which is the idea that multiple marijuana compounds work better together than alone.

Anxiety

For patients with anxiety, a CBD-heavy product may be a better bet. That’s because CBD doesn’t cause the high associated with THC, which some people find overwhelming or anxiety-inducing. Because CBD’s effects are more subtle, most patients don’t notice obvious changes, aside from feeling less stressed and more at ease.

Sleep

If you spend most nights tossing and turning, consider a product higher in THC. Specifically, look for products that contain indica strains of marijuana. Indica strains are often associated with relaxing, sedating effects that can help soothe tight muscles and quiet the mind.

Choose the right product type

It’s also important to consider the right product for your situation. Here’s a quick overview to guide your decision-making:

Marijuana flower: You can smoke or vape flower, and it usually starts working within minutes. The effects typically last two or three hours, so if you need quick relief that won’t last all day, it’s a good option.

Edibles: Brownies, gummies, and marijuana-infused beverages typically take 30 minutes to two hours to kick in, but the effects can last for several hours. They’re a great option for nighttime pain or sleeping troubles.

Tinctures/oils: These can contain THC or CBD. When taken under the tongue (sublingually), they act within about 30 minutes and offer precise dosing, making them a good option for prompt pain or stress relief.

Topicals: Ointments and lotions aren’t intoxicating, so you can use them any time. They’re a good option if you have localized pain or inflammation that affects your mobility or routine.

Pay attention to dosage and potency

If you’re new to using medical marijuana, don’t rush the process. It’s much better to start low and go slow than take a high dose and wait hours for the side effects to subside.

Most marijuana products list the strain (indica, sativa, or hybrid), THC and CBD content, and suggested dosing. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Budtenders are well-versed in the products they sell and can make recommendations that align with your needs.

Dr. Park is also an excellent resource. As a medical marijuana physician, she can help you determine what type of marijuana makes the most sense and guide you in testing different products over time, and it’s easy to schedule a non-certification consultation via telehealth.

We can help you manage symptoms

Getting a medical marijuana certification can help you access the benefits of marijuana for medical conditions like pain, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. To learn more about certification and which product may be right for you, contact MediCalm today. Call our appointment line at 484-440-9494 or use our online scheduler.