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Bailey Porras

Debunking Common Myths About Medical Marijuana in Virginia


As marijuana laws continue to evolve across the U.S., Virginia’s medical marijuana program is growing, offering patients a legal way to access cannabis for medical use. With recreational sales not expected to begin until 2027, understanding the facts about medical marijuana is more important than ever. Unfortunately, many myths and misconceptions persist, which can lead to confusion and prevent people from exploring medical marijuana as a treatment option.


In this blog, we aim to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding medical marijuana in Virginia. By clearing up these misunderstandings, we hope to provide a clearer picture of its potential as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of medical conditions.


Myth: Marijuana Kills Brain Cells

Truth: There is no conclusive evidence that marijuana kills brain cells. While heavy marijuana use during adolescence may impact cognitive development, moderate adult use does not result in permanent brain damage. The misconception that marijuana causes irreversible harm comes from outdated studies that have since been debunked. When used responsibly and under the guidance of a licensed physician, medical marijuana does not pose significant risks to brain health for patients in Virginia.


Myth: Marijuana Is Highly Addictive

Truth: Marijuana has a much lower risk of addiction compared to substances like alcohol, nicotine, or opioids. Research suggests that only about 9% of users may develop a dependency, but the vast majority can consume marijuana responsibly without becoming addicted. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms from marijuana are generally milder than those associated with other addictive substances. Virginia's medical marijuana program is designed to help patients use cannabis safely under medical supervision, reducing the risk of dependence.


Myth: Marijuana Makes Users Lazy and Unmotivated

Truth: The stereotype that marijuana users are lazy is largely a product of cultural portrayals and not scientific evidence. While some strains, particularly indicas, can induce relaxation, many patients continue to lead productive, active lives. In fact, certain strains, such as sativas, can enhance focus, creativity, and energy, making them ideal for daytime use. In Virginia, patients have access to a variety of strains tailored to their specific needs, whether it's for managing chronic pain, anxiety, or maintaining energy throughout the day.


Myth: All Marijuana Is the Same

Truth: Not all marijuana is the same. In Virginia, medical marijuana dispensaries offer various strains, including sativa, indica, and hybrids, each providing different effects. Sativa is typically more energizing, while indica is more relaxing. Additionally, medical marijuana comes in many forms, such as edibles, tinctures, topicals, and vapes, all offering different onset times and effects. Patients in Virginia can work with their physician to find the right strain and product type for their individual needs.


Myth: CBD and THC Are the Same

Truth: Although both CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are cannabinoids, they have very different effects. THC is psychoactive, meaning it produces the “high” commonly associated with marijuana, while CBD is non-psychoactive and used primarily for therapeutic purposes. In Virginia, medical marijuana patients can access products with varying levels of CBD and THC to tailor their treatment, whether they're seeking pain relief, anxiety management, or other benefits without intoxication.


Myth: Medical Marijuana Is a Last Resort Treatment

Truth: Medical marijuana is often viewed as a last-resort option, but that’s not the case. More patients in Virginia are turning to medical marijuana as a primary or complementary treatment for conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and epilepsy. With fewer side effects compared to many prescription medications, medical marijuana is proving to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients at various stages of their care.


Myth: Marijuana Use Is Unsafe

Truth: When used responsibly and under medical supervision, marijuana is generally safe. Many of the perceived dangers of marijuana, such as addiction or cognitive impairment, have been exaggerated. In Virginia, medical marijuana is often a safer alternative to opioids for pain management, carrying a much lower risk of addiction and overdose. By working with a qualified physician and following proper guidelines, medical marijuana patients in Virginia can experience relief safely and effectively.


Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today

Lucky for you, medical marijuana is already available in Virginia! You can get your medical marijuana card and access dispensaries today if you have a qualifying condition.


Recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, but it does not mean much since there are no recreational dispensaries to purchase products from.


There are also countless benefits to having your medical card in a recreational state! You will save money on taxes and marijuana products and enjoy higher possession and purchase limits if you have your medical card in Virginia!


In order to qualify for your medical marijuana card, you will need to have a condition that would make you eligible. If you aren’t sure if you would qualify, give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have about the process.


If you don’t already have your card, no worries. We can help! If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you would qualify for your medical card in the State of Virginia. With telemedicine, it is now easier than ever to get your medical card from the comfort of your own home!


In Virginia, any inhibiting condition could qualify you for your medical card. If you don’t already have it, we can help! Schedule an evaluation online today and we’ll make an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors.

 


 

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.


At Virginia Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness

safely and conveniently through increased access to MMJ. Our focus on

education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by

providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.


Call us at (888) 633-5808, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!


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