Have you been dealing with chronic pain that isn’t responding to the “traditional” treatments your doctor recommended? Maybe you don’t want to be the next statistic of opioid addiction, and you’re seeking a more natural option for relief. Or perhaps you just want to know more about medical marijuana.
At Elevation Aesthetics in Layton, Utah, Dr. Jensen offers patient evaluation services to determine if medical marijuana may help ease your symptoms of pain and improve your quality of life.
What Is Medical Marijuana or Cannabis?
Marijuana is simply the slang name for cannabis. Medical marijuana means using the cannabis plant or chemicals obtained from the plant to treat various diseases or health conditions. Acquiring medical cannabis is different than a doctor prescribing a particular drug.
For medicinal cannabis, a doctor has to recommend it as a therapeutic treatment for a chronic or debilitating condition. Generally, these recommendations are required for a person to enter a cannabis dispensary in Utah.
How Cannabis Works for Symptom Relief
Cannabis is a plant genus that produces three species of flowering plants: cannabis sativa, cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis. Both medical marijuana and recreational marijuana really only use the sativa and indica species. When the two are crossbred, it is called a hybrid.
As a broad general rule, indica cannabis strains provide strong “body effects,” which are great for pain relief. This also means a strong or “heavy” high – you won’t want to plan on a big client meeting the day you use it.
Sativa strains provide strong “mind effects,” meaning they’re good for relaxation and conditions that affect the mind. Think headaches, depression, anxiety, that kind of thing.
Cannabis produces different cannabinoids, which cause the psychological and physical effects to occur.
Cannabinoids Explained
Cannabinoids attach to receptors in the brain. These receptors in the brain seek similar compounds that occur in the human body, like dopamine. They are particularly effective for relieving all kinds of health problems with our bodies.
Each produces different physical and psychological effects and health benefits. They are:
- THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive compound in a cannabis plant. This is the compound that makes you high and euphoric. THC works as a potent anti-inflammatory agent and is used to treat cancer, chronic pain, arthritis, convulsions, glaucoma, insomnia, and lots more.
- CBD: Cannabidiol. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive. It is found to reduce nausea and suppress seizures, is anti-psychotic, anti-depressant, and has anti-cancer qualities.
- CBN: Cannabinol. It is a metabolite of THC. While THC has high psychoactive effects, CBN produces less of a “high” effect and has numerous medical benefits. It’s used for its sleep-inducing properties in treating insomnia. CBN also is an anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsant.
- THCA: Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. Some people are putting raw cannabis (that hasn’t been heated to activate it) into smoothies or other foods as a superfood because of THCA. THCA is non-intoxicating because it is a larger molecule that doesn’t fit into the brain’s cannabinoid receptors. When you heat THCA (or let cannabis age), it becomes THC.
- CBC: Cannabichromene. Enhances the effects of THC. High levels of CBC will make a high-THC cannabis strain more potent. Works well for sedation, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory purposes.
- CBG: Cannabigerol. Not found in high amounts in most cannabis. It has no psychological effects but is believed to be one of the oldest forms of cannabinoids, essentially a parent to the others. Used to lower pressure in the eye, for sleep assistance, sedation, and anti-inflammatory purposes.
Steps for Obtaining Your Utah Medical Cannabis Card
- Identify if You Have a Qualifying Condition: Individuals with one or more of the conditions listed in the Utah Medical Cannabis Act are authorized to receive a medical cannabis patient card. The conditions include chronic pain, cancer, HIV or AIDS, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and several other medical conditions that significantly impact daily living. Restrictions: Cannabis cards may not be issued to CDL drivers. We advise you to consult a Utah attorney first.
- Make an Appointment to Meet With Dr. Jensen: We are currently accepting patients 21 years of age and older.
- Register With the Department of Health: Create a Utah ID and register for a Medical Cannabis Card through the Department of Health EVS. We will send you an email with links and steps to create your Utah ID.
- Meet With Dr. Jensen: Meet with a QMP that believes in the use of cannabis and its derivatives as a successful therapeutic option for patients suffering from chronic and debilitating illnesses. The medical cannabis card entitles patients to legal protection afforded by the Medical Cannabis Decriminalization Act memorialized in Utah State Code 58-37-3.7.
- Visit a Dispensary / Pharmacy: Your Medical Cannabis Card will be issued electronically. Once you receive your card, you can visit a Utah Dispensary and start your treatment.
Why Choose Elevation Aesthetics With Dr. Joseph Jensen?
At Elevation Aesthetics, we prioritize your well-being by offering personalized care under the guidance of Dr. Joseph Jensen. With a deep understanding of the complexities of chronic pain and debilitating conditions, Dr. Jensen applies a holistic approach to medical cannabis treatment. He makes sure each patient receives a tailored plan designed to provide optimal relief and improve quality of life.
Elevation Aesthetics is a sanctuary for healing. Our state-of-the-art facility in Layton, Utah, is comfortable and welcoming, making your visits as pleasant and stress-free as possible.
We understand the stigma that can be associated with medical cannabis, and we strive to create a supportive space where you can discuss your concerns openly. With a focus on natural and effective treatments, Elevation Aesthetics is dedicated to helping you achieve a better quality of life through the safe and informed use of medical cannabis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know if Medical Cannabis Is Right for Me?
Medical cannabis may be suitable for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments or want to avoid potential addiction to opioids. Consult with Dr. Jensen to discuss your specific symptoms and medical history to determine if medical cannabis is a viable option.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Medical Cannabis?
While medical cannabis can provide significant relief, it may also cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, and changes in appetite. It’s important to discuss these potential side effects with Dr. Jensen to understand how they may impact your treatment.
Can I Use Medical Cannabis While Taking Other Medications?
There can be interactions between medical cannabis and other medications. It’s crucial to inform Dr. Jensen about all medications and supplements you are currently taking to ensure there are no adverse interactions and to tailor the treatment plan to your needs.
How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects of Medical Cannabis?
The onset time for medical cannabis effects can vary depending on the method of consumption. Inhalation methods, such as smoking or vaping, typically provide quicker relief (within minutes), while edibles and tinctures may take longer (30 minutes to 2 hours) to produce effects.
Can I Travel With My Medical Cannabis?
Traveling with medical cannabis can be complicated due to varying state and federal laws. While you can travel within Utah with your medical cannabis, taking it across state lines or on flights is generally not allowed. Always check the laws of your destination before traveling with medical cannabis.
Get Started with Medical Cannabis: Contact Elevation Aesthetics Today
We believe in the power of medical cannabis to offer relief from chronic pain and other debilitating conditions. With the expertise of Dr. Joseph Jensen, you can trust us to guide you on your journey to better health. Don't let chronic pain control your life any longer.
Start living a more comfortable and fulfilling life by calling us at 801-728-9555. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you explore how medical cannabis can benefit you.