When Governor Bruce Rauner announced the Marijuana Policy Project that legalizes medical cannabis as a substitute for painkillers, cannabis patients were thrilled. Prescription drugs and opioids killed 70,000 people in 2017 in the United States, and 40% of those were from legal prescription drugs like hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, and morphine.
Although the question still remains, “How effective is cannabis at treating pain?” patients are relieved at the opportunity to avoid some of the side effects of prescription drugs and opioids, like grogginess and fatigue. However, patients with diseases that cause excruciating pain (such as a nerve damage diseases) believe that prescription drugs and opioids are their only option and fear that doctors will cut them off their medications due to pressure to reduce opioid-related deaths.
There are mixed results from studies that try to determine whether cannabis is a better option for relieving pain in patients. Although more research is needed, overall, the answer from these studies is “yes,” but it does not treat pain for all patients with all conditions. There are some exceptions.
What are the Side Effects of Prescription Opioids?
There are many side effects of prescription drugs and there is not much evidence of their long-term usefulness. In addition to overdosing, the following are some of the possible side effects of using prescription drugs and opioids:
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Depression
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- Increasing tolerance to the drug
- Itching and sweating
- Lowered sex drive
- Nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth
- Sleepiness and dizziness
- Withdrawal symptoms after stopping the drug
Can I Use Cannabis Without a Prescription?
Federal laws say the cannabis is an illegal schedule I drug without medicinal value. Some states have recognized the medical uses of cannabis and have legalized its medicinal use and even its recreational use. Illinois state law says that if you are a first-time offender caught with less than 10 grams of marijuana, then you will avoid jail time and instead be issued a ticket ranging from $100-$200. You can be arrested for possession of any amount over 10 grams, especially if it is not your first offense. Second-time offenders caught with 10-30 grams of marijuana can be charged with a felony and will be jailed for up to a year or more. Hiring an experienced drug crime lawyer is the best way to curb possibly harsh sentencing.
What if I am Arrested for Drugs?
At Glasgow & Olsson, our goal is to help people who have been arrested for the possession, sale, or distribution of drugs. Our team is compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable in drug crime law in Illinois. If you are arrested for a drug-related offense in Chicago, contact us at 847.577.8700 for a consultation, or visit us online and complete the consultation form.
(image courtesy of Amritanshu Sikdar)