This article investigates the advantages and disadvantages of these two administration methods, with a focus on their impact on patient health and well-being.
Smoking Medical Cannabis
1.1 Advantages of Smoking
Smoking is one of the most traditional methods of consuming cannabis. It involves heating the dried cannabis flower and inhaling the resulting smoke. Some patients prefer smoking for several reasons:
Quick onset of effects: Smoking delivers cannabinoids rapidly into the bloodstream, providing almost immediate relief to patients suffering from acute symptoms.
Dose control: Smoking allows users to titrate their dose easily by taking smaller or larger puffs, providing flexibility in managing their symptoms.
1.2 Disadvantages of Smoking
However, there are significant downsides to smoking medical cannabis:
Respiratory risks: Smoking any substance can harm the respiratory system, potentially leading to bronchitis, lung infections, and other lung-related issues.
Inconsistent dosing: Achieving precise dosing can be challenging with smoking, as it is difficult to control the exact amount of cannabinoids consumed with each puff.
Wasted medicinal flower: It is estimated that 30% of the medical product is wasted through smoking a joint.
Temperature Controlled Vaping of Medical Cannabis preserves the terpenes medicinal effects by starting at a lower temperature and gradual increasing the temp by 10 - 20 degrees Celsius starting at 180c - 190c - 200c - 210c - 220c.
2.1 Advantages of Temperature Controlled Vaping
Vaping involves heating cannabis flower or extracts at increasing and graded temperatures to create a vapour that is inhaled. Temperature Controlled Vaping of Medical Cannabis preserves the terpenes medicinal effects by starting at a lower temperature and gradual increasing the temp by 10 - 20 degrees Celsius starting at 180c - 190c - 200c - 210c - 220c.
Temperature Controlled vaping is a more controlled approach to this method and has gained popularity for the following reasons:
Reduced harm: Compared to smoking, vaping is less harmful to the respiratory system because it doesn't produce tar and many of the harmful byproducts found in smoke.
Precise dosing: Temperature Controlled vaping devices offer precise control over the temperature and dosage, allowing patients to tailor their experience to their specific needs without burning off the terpenes and losing the valued benefit of graded vaping. .
2.2 Disadvantages of Temperature Controlled Vaping
Despite its advantages, Temperature Controlled vaping has some drawbacks:
Equipment costs: Temperature Controlled vaping devices can be expensive upfront, although they may save money in the long run due to more efficient use of cannabis.
Learning curve: New users may need time to become familiar with vaping equipment and techniques.
Conclusion
The choice between smoking and Temperature Controlled vaping medical cannabis depends on individual preferences, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. While smoking offers rapid relief and dose control, it comes with potential respiratory risks. On the other hand, vaping is a safer and more precise method, but it may require a learning curve and initial equipment costs.
Patients considering medical cannabis should consult with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance on the most suitable administration method based on their specific medical needs and circumstances. Additionally, ongoing research is essential to further evaluate the long-term health effects of both smoking and Temperature Controlled vaping, ensuring that patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options.
References:
Hazekamp, A., Ruhaak, R., Zuurman, L., van Gerven, J., & Verpoorte, R. (2006). Evaluation of a vaporizing device (Volcano) for the pulmonary administration of tetrahydrocannabinol. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 95(6), 1308-1317.
Spindle, T. R., Cone, E. J., Schlienz, N. J., Mitchell, J. M., Bigelow, G. E., & Flegel, R. (2018). Acute effects of smoked and vaporized cannabis in healthy adults who infrequently use cannabis: A crossover trial. JAMA Network Open, 1(7), e184841.
This crossover trial investigates the acute effects of smoked and vaporized cannabis, providing insights into the differences between these administration methods.
Vandrey, R., Herrmann, E. S., Mitchell, J. M., Bigelow, G. E., & Flegel, R. (2017). Vaporization of marijuana among recreational users: A qualitative study. The Journal of Drug Issues, 47(2), 208-220.
This qualitative study explores the experiences and motivations of recreational cannabis users who choose vaporization as their preferred method of consumption.
Disclaimer:
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The author is NOT a Doctor. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.