The doctor really only documents that you have been counseled on the use of MMJ for your condition, and cautions of side effect on driving, etc. of MMJ. I just asked my gastroenterologist (I first used it for Crohn's) and he signed my form. After that he does no prescribing or further work with MMJ.

There are numerous resouces online for medical marijuana information; this one seems to cover a lot of questions new users may have: http://www.medicalmarijuanablog.com/

Just google "medical marijuana" to find more websites, articles and information.


Indica is more of a body high, good for spasms and relaxation, but can make you sleepier, gives more sedation. Sativa gives more of a cerebral high, good for pain and distraction from symptoms, and is preferred if you don't want to feel sleepy. It is possible to train yourself to perform normal tasks without much trouble while high, but watch driving and other activities that might require extreme alertness. And if weight it an issue for you at all, beware of increased appetite, and keep healthy munchies on hand. Actually, keeping busy helps with that.

Remember, THC is a drug, and acts on the body like a drug. It works for some and not for others, and each person experiences it a bit differently. Be cautious using it with other sedatives, like valium, as the combined effects could be magnified.

I use a bubbler-bong for immediate dosing, and baked cookies for a stronger body high and for travel. I have made my own canna-butter, but it is a smelly and messy task. My first batch of medicated gingerbread cookies were perfect, in that three tiny cookies kept pain at bay for hours, up to 4-6 hours. Ingested marijuana can take 60-90 minutes before you feel it, so be aware before you eat too much and get way too high!

The doc will not prescribe donuts for you, nor will every dispensary sell ready-to-eat medicated goodies. Expect a trial and error period, during which inhalation may have to be your mainstay until you have dosing figured out.