Medicating with Cannabis in the Time of COVID-19
Given the WORLD crisis of the novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19, it seems appropriate to address the issue of safely medicating during these unusual times. While not as hard to come by as toilet paper right now, medical marijuana supplies have been depleted by patients preparing for, or currently in a state of self quarantine, or shelter-in-place. Furthermore, given the highly contagious nature of the virus, now more than ever, there are certain hygienic precautions needed when medicating. Finally, if you are experiencing symptoms or have tested positive, you might want to consider alternative medication delivery methods.
People are stock piling food, medications, and many other items to prepare for a 2+ week period of possible self-quarantine to try and help control the spread of COVID-19. For MMJ patients, its the same. Problem is, patients using medicinal cannabis can’t just go to a store or pharmacy to fill their medication. So they must essentially “stock up”. I’ve heard from a few, that while there are supplies, the variety of selections, which are important when medicating for specific conditions, are becoming fewer. My point being, if your recommendation and bank account allows, try to stock up.
When medicating, whether it be vaping with concentrates, smoking flower, and/or using something that can be taken orally, it is important to use precautionary measures to protect yourself and others. Hand washing and social distancing, amongst other things, seem to help control the spread of this pandemic. When handling your medicine, make sure you are are using clean hands. Additionally, whether medical or legal adult use, it is important that no devices, pipes, joints or tinctures be shared.
What if you’re already sick, maybe it’s just the seasonal flu (also potentially serious), but perhaps you have become victim to the COVID-19. With the related respiratory symptoms, including things like dry cough and shortness of breath, taking your medication by inhalation might not be the best idea. Alternative delivery methods such as oral concentrates/distillates, tinctures, topicals, and/or capsules can meet your medicating needs, at least temporarily, while giving your lungs a rest. Of course it is suggested that you check with your recommending and/or primary physician regarding any changes in how you medicate and any needed modifications to your plan.
I didn’t expect or want to write something like this. I certainly am not trying to add to the stress, uncertainty, and craziness of the time. But...considering the stock piling and hoarding of supplies by some; the heightened awareness of cleanliness and hygiene, as well as social spacing; I wanted to share some thoughts and considerations for safely medicating in the time of COVID-19.
Together, we will get through this.
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