What’s interesting to notice, is the lack of standardization in the amount of cannabis that patients are allowed to use. However, I believe this will become enhanced with consecutive research. With most prescribed medications, a specific amount of the drug is given, with instructions on how often to take them. Like all medication, there should be an optimal level of dosage, where too much or too little of the drug can be harmful; such as building up immunity/bodily harm. Prescriptions given for individuals with “green cards”, are much more lenient, and do not specifically suggest how much or how often the drug should be consumed. Instead, doctors usually suggest the maximum amount which can be bought per week, leaving patients to potentially overuse and underuse the drug. This may be problematic. An article published by Chenn and McCarron (2013), tested on individuals with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. This illness is caused by daily, chronic, overconsumption of marijuana and characterized by nausea, bodily rejection of food/drink, recurrent vomiting, and abdominal pain (Chenn & McCarron, 2013). Just like any prescribed medication, overuse can be harmful. Thus, it may be important to designate more research for personalized care to ensure proper dosages are being consumed; considering the specific illness and the sex/body weight of patients. This way, benefits of the drug may be maximized while adverse effects from improper use are decreased. Depending on the intake of cannabinoids (smoked, digested, vaporized), different effects may also result (Chenn & McCarron, 2013). Thus, more research is suggested to monitor which method works best for specific conditions.
Current research for speech therapy and the use of cannabinoids is quite limited. The contribution of cannabinoids may be an asset to the realms of speech language pathology by potentially decreasing pain experienced by past-stroke patients, decreasing possible depressive symptoms, and alleviating difficulties involved in articulatory-motor control. Future research pertaining to speech therapy is suggested to maximize use and benefits of the drug.
As a fourth year student studying psychology, cannabinoids has become a recent interest of mine specifically related to its potential uses within the health sciences. Should there be any questions or comments, you can further reach me by email at [email protected].
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