Medical Cannabis Treatment for Elders: A Promising Approach
Medical cannabis is a therapeutic option that helps in the treatment of various pathologies. Its main component is cannabidiol (CBD), a substance responsible for activating and regulating the nervous and immune systems, in addition to THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). It is indicated for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain and mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety and even insomnia.
With medicinal properties, cannabis has been studied and used to treat a variety of health conditions, bringing relief and improving patients’ quality of life. In this article, we will cover what you need to know about medical cannabis treatment, its indications, and how this natural therapy is carried out at our medical centre in Western Sydney. Continue reading to understand better the benefits and how cannabis can contribute to the well-being of adults.
Understanding Medicinal Cannabis and its Therapeutic Benefits
Medical cannabis is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant and contains chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. As stated earlier, the two main cannabinoids found in cannabis are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is mainly responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with the plant, while CBD has therapeutic properties without causing significant mental changes. Both cannabinoids have shown potential to treat various medical conditions.
Indications for the Use of Medicinal Cannabis in the Elderly
The prescription of medical cannabis is evaluated carefully by our specialists in geriatrics and nutrition at the Blacktown Medical Centre. Some of the main indications for the use of cannabis in elderly patients include:
Chronic Pain Relief
Chronic pain is a common condition in the elderly, often caused by degenerative diseases, such as osteoarthritis or neurological conditions. Medical cannabis has demonstrated effectiveness in relieving chronic pain, providing a safe alternative to opioids and other analgesic medications.
Control of Symptoms of Neurological Diseases
Patients with neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or multiple sclerosis, may benefit from using medical cannabis to control symptoms such as spasticity, tremors and insomnia.
Improved Appetite and Nausea
In elders who experience loss of appetite and nausea due to medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, medical cannabis can stimulate appetite and reduce discomfort.
Management of Anxiety and Depression
Medical cannabis has also been studied for its potential anxiolytic and antidepressant effects and may help seniors who face these mental health problems.
It is important to highlight that the prescription of medicinal cannabis at Blacktown Medical Centre is made on an individual basis, taking into account the general health and specific needs of each patient. The benefits and risks are carefully evaluated, ensuring safe and effective treatment.
How Medical Cannabis Treatment Is Performed
Medical cannabis treatment at our medicinal cannabis Sydney centre is conducted by experienced professionals in geriatrics and nutrition. During the consultation, the doctor will evaluate the patient’s medical history, current health conditions, and discuss what symptoms or health issues they are experiencing.
After the evaluation, the doctor will define the appropriate dosage, as well as how to administer cannabis, which can be done through oils, capsules or vaporization. The patient’s progress will be monitored regularly to adjust treatment if necessary and ensure they respond positively to therapy.
Conclusion
Medical cannabis has proven to be a promising approach for treating various health conditions in elderly patients. With its therapeutic compounds, such as THC and CBD, the plant has demonstrated effectiveness in relieving chronic pain, controlling neurological symptoms, improving appetite, and managing anxiety and depression, among other benefits.
At our Western Sydney Medical Centre, we recognize the importance of medical cannabis as a valuable therapeutic option for adults, especially when conventional treatments do not provide sufficient relief or may present risks. Our team of specialists performs a careful assessment to ensure that the prescription of medicinal cannabis is personalized and safe for each patient. So, visit our website to meet the best female doctors in Western Sydney!
