Neil H. Baum, MD, presented “The Latest Dope on Medical Marijuana​” for the Grand Rounds in Urology audience in December 2021.

How to cite: Baum, Neil H. The Latest Dope on Medical Marijuana.” December 2021. Accessed Mar 2024. https://grandroundsinurology.com/the-latest-dope-on-medical-marijuana/

The Latest Dope on Medical Marijuana – Summary

Grand Rounds in Urology Contributing Editor Neil H. Baum, MD, Professor of Urology at Tulane Medical School, discusses the latest research on medical marijuana, noting that it is increasingly popular with patients and that almost all physicians, including urologists, should expect questions about it. He gives a brief history of cannabis, from its use as an herbal medicine in 500 BCE, to its criminalization in 1937 and, eventually, to its legalization for both medical and recreational uses over the last few decades. Dr. Baum then defines several terms, explaining the difference between cannabidiol (CBD), which is not psychoactive and has anti-inflammatory properties, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is psychoactive and increases appetite. He lists the conditions marijuana is purportedly beneficial for including chronic pain, alcohol and drug addiction, insomnia, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety, nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, gastrointestinal disorders, multiple sclerosis, and certain forms of epilepsy. Dr. Baum notes that while there is some evidence supporting marijuana’s benefits for several of these conditions, randomized controlled trials are needed to substantiate many claims.

For more commentary on practice management from Dr. Baum, visit his Improving Your Urology Practice page.