Brain Cancer and Medical Marijuana

Brain Cancer and Medical Marijuana
Brain Cancer and Medical Marijuana

The brain's anatomy is incredibly complex and controls many different nervous system functions. There are about 86 billion neurons in the brain that send signals to all areas of the body. These neurons help us experience taste, smell, feelings and more. More than 120 different types of tumors can develop in the brain. While not all brain tumors are cancerous, some may develop in sensitive spots, causing risks due to their size and location. All forms and stages of cancer qualify for medical marijuana under the Compassionate Use Program in Texas. Read below to learn how medical marijuana may benefit someone living with brain cancer. 

What is Brain Cancer?

Brain cancer occurs when abnormal cells multiply and form a mass or growth. The collection of these cells are tumors and are considered a specific type of lesion. All tumors are considered lesions but not all lesions are deemed tumors. Brain tumors can develop in any part of the brain or skull, including the protective lining (the meninges), skull, brain stem, sinuses and other areas. Some brain tumors arise after a stroke, injury, encephalitis or malformation of the veins.

Medical Marijuana for Brain Cancer

Traditionally, certain pharmaceuticals are prescribed to help with cancer-related symptoms but are often ineffective or result in undesirable side effects. Few human studies have been performed on how cannabis helps with tumor growth. However, feedback from the medical cannabis community has suggested that medical cannabis may be a helpful solution.

Medical marijuana may help with symptoms such as:

  • Headaches
  • Neuropathy
  • Fatigue
  • Pain 
  • Reduce opioid use
  • Nausea and vomiting

Texas OG Patient Living With Brain Cancer

Although research is still ongoing, increasing positive feedback from patients, caregivers and physicians suggest that medical marijuana may be beneficial for relieving many symptoms of someone living with cancer. 

"I was diagnosed in 2016 with an inoperable brainstem glioma. Because of the tumor's location, I also developed nystagmus. Headaches, as well as my depleting peripheral vision, were the first signs that something was wrong. I immediately underwent radiation and have recently begun immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Since implementing medical cannabis, my symptoms and rudimentary daily life practices have improved exponentially. I am so thankful to have access to this efficacious medicine which has dramatically helped me in unprecedented circumstances. Absolutely nothing compares to the relief I receive from medical cannabis; it has truly been my saving grace,” said Jennifer, a Texas OG living with brain cancer. 

Get A Prescription

As of 2021, all stages and types of cancer are eligible to receive medical marijuana in Texas. We have partnered with telemedicine clinics in Texas to make the process of getting a prescription quick and easy. Once you receive your prescription, receiving your medication is easy as well. We deliver statewide and have several prescription pick-up locations around Texas, including San Antonio, Houston, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Wichita Falls, Lubbock, El Paso, and more. If you or a loved one living with cancer is ready to find relief with medical cannabis, visit the link below to get a prescription.