Frequently Asked Questions on Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana, also called medical cannabis, uses the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat symptoms and conditions. It contains chemicals called cannabinoids, like THC (known for its psychoactive effects) and CBD (non-psychoactive). It’s used for pain relief, nausea, muscle spasms, and other issues like Anxiety, Dementia, and more. However, recreational marijuana is still illegal under federal law in many states.

Medical marijuana works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions like pain, mood, and inflammation. Chemicals in the active medical marijuana plant, like THC and CBD, mimic natural cannabinoids, potentially reducing pain, nausea, and muscle spasms. While research is still ongoing, exact mechanisms vary depending on the condition and cannabinoid used.

In Florida, you can get a medical marijuana card by:

1. Scheduling a consultation with a qualified doctor who verifies you have a qualifying condition.
2. Register with the state through the Medical Marijuana Use Registry and get a recommendation from your doctor to become a qualified patient.
3. Applying and paying for your official Registry ID card. Then, visit a dispensary with a medical marijuana license to explore treatment options.

Medical marijuana helps manage symptoms, not cure illnesses. Common uses include:

• Pain relief: For chronic pain caused by conditions like arthritis or nerve damage.
• Nausea & vomiting: Especially for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
• Muscle spasms: Associated with multiple sclerosis or other neurological conditions.
• Appetite stimulation: To combat weight loss in HIV/AIDS patients.

While both come from the same plant, the key difference lies in purpose and legality:

• Medical marijuana: Used to manage symptoms of specific medical conditions with a doctor’s recommendation and state-issued card.
• Recreational marijuana: Used for enjoyment by adults of legal age in states where it’s legalized, with no medical justification required. In many states, it is still illegal under federal law.

Both may contain similar cannabinoids, but medical options sometimes prioritize higher CBD (non-psychoactive) content for specific symptom relief.

Low-THC cannabis and medical marijuana aren’t necessarily distinct, but rather categories within the medical marijuana umbrella:

• Medical marijuana: Broad term for any cannabis used for medical purposes with a doctor’s recommendation. THC content can vary depending on the condition and qualified patient needs.
• Low-THC cannabis: A specific type of medical marijuana containing very low levels of THC (< 0.3%). This minimizes the psychoactive “high” while potentially offering therapeutic benefits, like pain relief or anxiety reduction.

So, while “low-THC cannabis” describes the THC level, “medical marijuana” refers to the broader context and legal framework for medical use.

The duration medical marijuana stays in your system depends on various factors, including frequency of use, metabolism, and individual differences. Typically, THC, the psychoactive compound, can be detectable in urine for up to 30 days, while shorter periods apply to blood, saliva, and hair tests. CBD, being non-psychoactive, has a shorter detection window.

For renewing your Medical Marijuana Use Registry Card, you can follow simple steps:

1. Start 45 days before expiration: Check your card date.
2. Go online or by mail: Visit the Medical Marijuana Use Registry (mmuregistry.flhealth.gov) or download forms from the site.
3. Pay the fee: $75 for renewal.
4. Get a doctor’s recommendation: If needed, update your doctor’s certification.
5. Submit your application: Follow online prompts or mail completed forms.
6. Wait 7-10 business days: Relax. Your renewed card will arrive soon!

Yes, if you qualify, the doctor will make the recommendation at that time.

Worried that you might not qualify? Take our patient qualification survey to find out!

If you do not have medical records, we can get them. We’ll take care of everything. All you need to do to start is make an appointment with a 100% money-back guarantee.

YES, the information that you have provided is protected under HIPAA laws, even if it is not reimbursable by your private insurer yet. We will not and do not share any of your medical information without your permission in writing.

If you do not meet the requirements for medical marijuana, and for some reason you do not qualify, we will refund 100% of your money.

At MMJ HEALTH, we strive to be as transparent as possible with our patients. Please take a moment to read our refund policy:

If you cancel WITHIN 24 hours of payment – you get a 100% refund.
If you cancel AFTER 24 hours of payment – you get a 100% refund minus a $25 fee.
There is a $50 fee for any no-show/rescheduled or Canceled appointment with less than 24-hour notice.
There are no refunds issued after you have received a recommendation from our doctors.

The first visit includes meeting and discussing your condition with the doctor, a complete face-to-face physical examination, and a review of all the records to make the determination if you qualify for a medical marijuana recommendation.

Worried that you might not qualify? Take our qualification survey to find out if you qualify!

If you are under 18 please call the office. 561-631-7994

Yes, most people who live out of state must show a utility bill, property ownership, or some form of a lease. However, each out-of-state case varies, so we suggest speaking to one of our knowledgeable associates for more information. Contact us.

Yes, all our doctors are Members of the Society of Clinicians, ASA International MMJ Research Society, and Palm Beach County Medical Society. Not only have they taken the 8-hour course as was required by the State of Florida (which we do NOT believe is sufficient training about the Endocannabinoid System, and new law says doctors are only required to take a 2-hour CME course), but our doctors have over 1200 hours dedicated to the understanding of The ECS (Endocannabinoid System).

All documentation for this continuing education is available upon request. Our doctors are caring, compassionate, and educated in the field of Medical Marijuana Medicine.

Medical marijuana can potentially interact with certain medications. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to assess potential interactions. Cannabinoids may affect the metabolism of prescription drugs processed by the liver’s cytochrome P450 system. Always consult with your healthcare professional to ensure the safe and effective co-administration of medical marijuana alongside other medications and receive personalized guidance based on your medical history and conditions.

Expert views on medical marijuana are mixed. While acknowledging potential benefits for chronic pain, nausea, and some epilepsy forms, concerns exist over long-term effects, potential for misuse, and limited conclusive research. FDA-approved medications with similar benefits are available, though they may have different side effects. Ultimately, experts emphasize the need for more research and individual patient consultations with healthcare professionals before using medical marijuana.