Medical Marijuana: Not sure what I'm doing..

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Specializes in NVRN, ICU, Critical Care.

My mother is one of the millions that would greatly benefit from medical marijuana.

Background: She was the picture of healthy and fit 9 months ago and has been diagnosed with ALS like disease,out of nowhere. It's aggressive, relentless, and sudden. Other than the loss of motor function - she has constant spasms, tingling sensation, sob, and the depression and anxiety that come with such a life altering punch in the gut. It's heavy. The side effects from depression/anxiety meds are causing too many issues to where she's not able to be compliant with them. Nothing helps with the spasms, tingling, and constant anxiety-related sob.

Situation: Florida has recently legalized the use of cbd-specific medical marijuana. And, I believe it's an option that she should explore.

Problem: The legalities and steps to take to obtaining a prescription for this are so foreign to me. Does anyone have any good resources for navigating this type of therapy? Any informed information/opinions/etc would be greatly appreciated. Anybody care to share their experiences with medical marijuana? I'm familiar with the benefits and risks - I'm just in the dark when it comes to the logistics of actually utilizing this wonderful therapy.

Thanks!

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I'd start with your PCP for information and guidance. I'm so sorry your family is dealing with this. ALS is one of the absolute worst diseases imo. Best wishes with finding whatever will make her more comfortable. I will keep your Mother in my prayers.

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I can not share any personal experience but there is certainly a lot of information out there that you can use to get more informed,for example

Qualifying for Medical Marijuana in Florida

I am sorry that your mom has all those problems. As long as your mom makes her own decisions, she is the one directing her care - and if she is not able to make her own decisions (as determined by a doctor in writing) her healthcare proxy would make healthcare decisions for her. Obviously, she would benefit from comprehensive medical care that targets her symptoms but not all people want to take medication or see a medical professional or can adhere to a treatment plan.

Generally speaking, just focusing on one thing will most likely not help your mom that much because she has comprehensive care needs.

Besides encouraging her to do advanced care planning, you should also talk to her about her financial situation as she may need care givers or longterm care - elder lawyers can be a great source. If your mom is ok with you being much involved and allows for information to be given to you, you could also see if she has a medical case manager in the doctor's office or if there is a program that would fit her needs best.

If there are also mental health concerns including anxiety or other concerns like depression that would be good to treat you can encourage your mom to see a provider for that.

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There aren't a lot of doctors/dispensaries yet in Florida. The law is pretty new. She'll need to talk to her doctor and then she'll likely need to find a doctor that has taken the CBD prescribing course (it's an 8 hour mandated course before they can prescribe) and then finally she'll need a dispensary in her area.

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Specializes in NVRN, ICU, Critical Care.

I appreciate the responses that are related to info/sources on using medical marijuana for ALS symptom control. Thanks.

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