General Beliefs/Perspectives of Patients with Low-THC Oil Card Regarding Marijuana-Related Products

Introduction: High-level evidence exists for use of marijuana for chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and spasticity due to multiple sclerosis [1], but little is known about the safety of marijuana-related products (MRPs) [2]. Federal and state laws regarding medical marijuana are in conflict and lead to confusion among patients, caregivers, and health care providers [3]. Georgia's medical marijuana law allows people with specific medical conditions to legally possess up to 20 fluid ounces of "low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) oil" [4]. However, manufacturing and distribution/retail sales of marijuana are illegal in this state. A low-THC oil registry card allows the authorized person to possess the oil and protects them from arrest [4,5]. Methods: We conducted a web-based survey of patients with low-THC oil cards about their beliefs/perspectives regarding MRPs. Results: In our sample of 101 patients, 77% had advanced cancer, 73% were disabled or retired, 80% were single or divorced, 63% were >50years old, and 55% were female. Most of the patients used marijuana-related products multiple times a day (55%). Side effects were minimally bothersome, and sedation was the most common side effect reported (27%). Ninety-five percent of the patients reported marijuana-related products to be important or extremely important for reducing pain. Patients were very concerned about the legality of marijuana-related products and their ability to obtain them (43.33%). Discussion: Most patients find MRPs to be helpful for pain and are concerned about its legality. More research is needed to inform patient care and policies relating to use of MRPs. References: 1) Mead A. The legal status of cannabis (marijuana) and cannabidiol (CBD) under U.S. law. Epilepsy Behav 2017;70(Part B):288-91. 2) Hill KP. Medical marijuana for treatment of chronic pain and other medical and psychiatric problems: A clinical review. JAMA 2015;313(24):2474-83. 3) Ford TC, Hayley AC, Downey LA, Parrott AC. Cannabis: An overview of its adverse acute and chronic effects and their implications. Curr Drug Abuse Rev 2017;10(1):6-18. 4) Gerogia Department of Public Health. Low THC oil FAQ for doctors. Available at: