4 Mistakes To Avoid As A First-Time Medical Cannabis User

For those suffering from health conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and even chronic migraines—medical cannabis can provide significant symptom relief. If you've recently applied for and received a medical marijuana card in your state, you may be looking forward to your first time using cannabis to offset your symptoms. Before you use medical cannabis for the first time, however, there are some mistakes you'll want to be careful to avoid.

Forgetting to Register Your Card

First of all, understand that many states require you to take an additional step of formally registering your medicinal marijuana card after you've received it in the mail. The purpose of this extra step is to ensure that the card was received by the correct person, so registering your card will typically involve verifying your identity in some way. If your card has not been registered, you could be turned away at the door when you attempt to purchase medical cannabis for the first time.

Not Knowing Your State Laws

Each state sets its own unique laws and restrictions when it comes to the legal purchase and use of medical marijuana, so take the time to become familiar with your state's laws. Understand, too, that you will only be able to use your card in the state where you have registered.

Failing to Pace Yourself

If you're planning to smoke or vape cannabis for the first time, pace yourself by waiting at least 10 or 15 minutes in between hits. Even if you don't feel anything right away, it can take some time for the effects to kick in. It's better to start off slower than to overdo it. The same goes for edibles; these can take up to a couple of hours to kick in, so be patient. Over time, you'll learn your own tolerance.

Sticking With the Same Strain

If you're not experiencing the symptom relief you expected, it may simply be a matter of choosing a different strain. After all, different strains of marijuana have different concentrations of THC and CBD. If you need help picking a strain, speak with a professional at your local medical marijuana dispensary. They will be able to make a recommendation to you based on your health condition and desired effects.

When used responsibly, medical marijuana can help you find relief from chronic pain and other ailments. Just be sure to avoid these all-too-common mistakes as a first-time user.

For additional tips on medical cannabis, reach out to a local dispensary.