MAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK FOR YOU - …€¦ ·  · 2017-04-22MAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK...

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MAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK FOR YOU

Transcript of MAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK FOR YOU - …€¦ ·  · 2017-04-22MAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK...

A | HEALTHY PHARMSMAKING MEDICAL MARIJUANA WORK FOR YOU

CONTENTSWELCOME ..........................................................................................2

GETTING STARTED .............................................................................3

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA RECOMMENDATION ...........................................................................6

IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION ........................ 15

PATIENT TRACKING JOURNAL ......................................................... 18

HOW TO FIND US ..............................................................................20

WELCOME

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WELCOME TO HEALTHY PHARMS, INC. Healthy Pharms, Inc. is a non-profit dispensary of high-quality, medical cannabis (marijuana) for registered Massachusetts patients. We offer a wide variety of reasonably priced medicinal treatments derived from locally grown plants and produced in our state-of-the-art facility.

Healthy Pharms, Inc. puts the health and well-being of its patients first. Our products are independently lab-tested for consistent dosing and purity across all methods of consumption. Our dispensing locations are a secure and welcoming environment where patients can learn more about the medical use of marijuana and obtain their products.

Our knowledgeable staff are always available for consultation, and we look forward to helping our patients meet their individual treatment needs.

GETTINGSTARTEDThere are three steps to becoming a registered patient who can receive medical marijuana products from Healthy Pharms, Inc. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health regulates this process.

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In Massachusetts, a doctor must be certified by the state to provide medical marijuana recommendations. Your primary care physician may not be certified, so you may need to perform an internet search for “medical marijuana doctors in Massachusetts.” If you and your certified doctor agree that using medical marijuana to treat your condition is the right course of action, then the doctor will provide you (and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health) with a letter of recommendation and a Registration Number.

You will need to use the Registration Number given to you by your physician to complete the medical marijuana (MMJ) Online System registration process. To register on-line visit: www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/medical-marijuana/patients-and-caregivers.html

For additional questions or information on the registration process, please consult with your recommending physician or visit: www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/quality/medical-marijuana/mmj-system-registration-patient-step-by-step.pdf

Once you have registered, and upon approval by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, you will receive your Medical Use of Marijuana Program ID card in the mail.

STEP 1.FIND A CERTIFIED DOCTOR

STEP 2.REGISTER WITH THE STATE

If you are unable to register online, you may complete paper registration forms. Forms can be obtained by calling the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) Medical Use of Marijuana Hotline at (617)-660-5370.

Please note that pediatric patients need to have two doctor recommendations. For guidelines on pediatric care and registration please visit: www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/quality/medical-marijuana/physician-guidance-2015-06-09.pdf

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Bring your state issued Medical Use of Marijuana Program ID card and one form of state-issued identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) to Healthy Pharms Inc.

Please plan for a slightly longer visit your first time, as you will need to register with our dispensary. Our goal is to make this process as easy as possible for you. We will answer any questions you may have.

STEP 3.VISIT HEALTHY PHARMS, INC.

IMPORTANT LINKS

FIND A DOCTOR:www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/quality/medical-marijuana/physician-guidance-2015-06-09.pdf

REGISTER ONLINE:www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/medical-marijuana/patients-and-caregivers.html

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE: www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/quality/medical-marijuana/mmj-system-registration-patient-step-by-step.pdf

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA RECOMMEN-DATION

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DETERMINING THE BEST TREATMENT PLAN FOR YOUHealthy Pharms, Inc. can advise you on the various strains of marijuana used in our products, and which may best meet your medical needs. Your doctor will have identified what your goals are in using medical marijuana such as pain reduction, appetite improvement, etc. Healthy Pharms will help match those goals to the types of marijuana strains available and the ways to take them.

As a patient, you may use different strains to treat different conditions. Different forms of taking Medical Marijuana can also change effectiveness.

For example, you may choose a dominant Sativa strain for use in the morning and an Indica strain for nighttime. The endocannabinoid system, the receptors in our bodies that receive cannabinoid molecules (the active ingredients in marijuana), are part of our nervous system, but responses to specific cannabinoids vary among individuals. One strain that works well for one person may not be the best strain for another person with the same disorder.

The effects of cannabinoids vary, and so do the effects of terpenes, which are compounds within the cannabis flower that give the strain its unique aroma. Together cannabinoids and terpenes create what is sometimes referred to as an “entourage effect.” If one such component is changed, which happens between strain varieties, you may be affected differently. It is therefore important to document your experiences in your patient journal (provided in this brochure) and note the strains and dosages that work well for you.

Please know that any information provided by Healthy Pharms Inc. and its employees or representatives is not and should not be construed as medical advice. Medical questions should be directed to your physician.

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TYPES OF STRAINSMedical marijuana strains are categorized by the following types or groups of strains.

These strains have both CBD and THC, which is the compound in cannabis that causes the most psychoactive effects. Many people report that CBD counteracts the potential negative side-effects of THC, like anxiety.

These strains may be comprised of either Sativa or Indica, but provide little psychoactive effect. They are known to treat anxiety and depression, nausea, seizures, inflammation, and provide a general feeling of well-being.

Hybrid strains are mixed. They can be Indica- dominant or Sativa-dominant, and can provide a balanced effect. Most strains today are hybrids, comprised mostly of either Sativa or Indica.

Sativa strains reportedly have a heady, uplifting or motivating effect.

Indica strains are described as relaxing or sedating. INDICA

SATIVA

HYBRID

HIGH CBD

BALANCED CBD

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COMMON CANNABINOIDSCannabinoids are the active ingredients in marijuana. Common cannabinoids include:

CBD (CANNABIDIOL)Known to have minimal to no psychoactive effects.

THC (TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL)The decarboxylated or “activated” form of THCA. It is most commonly known as the primary cannabinoid. Psychoactive effects vary by type.

CBN (CANNABINOL)Produced when THC is “degraded” through aging or exposure to heat and/or light. Growing and storage conditions can affect the presence of this cannabinoid. It is characterized as having a sedative effect.

THCAThe unheated or not decarboxylated, raw “acidic” version of THC. Once heated to a certain temperature, such as through smoking, baking or vaporizing, THCA is decarboxylated and converted to THC.

CBDAThe unheated or not decarboxylated, raw “acidic” version of CBD. Once heated to a certain temperature, such as through smoking, baking or vaporizing, CBDA is decarboxylated and converted to CBD.

For further reference, please see the Leafly.com chart on the following page showing common disorders and the cannabinoids believed effective for treating them.

*Chart originally published by Leafly.com

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METHODS OF CONSUMPTIONAll cannabis purchased at Healthy Pharms, Inc. will come with information on potency and cannabinoid content. Patients should read this information and then begin with a small dosage (5 to 10mg), allowing enough time for the onset of effects before increasing the dose. This is especially important for oral delivery, for which the onset of effects can range from 20 minutes to two hours (or more) after dosing. The effects of oral delivery generally last longer than for inhaled or other methods.

Tolerance to one delivery method does not indicate a tolerance to all delivery methods. Patients should therefore use caution and be conservative in dosing, especially when trying a new delivery method. It may take several attempts before you determine the appropriate dosage for you.

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Cannabis is inhaled in either flower or concentrate form. The effects can be felt within a few moments, although the full effects may take longer with some strains.

• SMOKING: Combusting or lighting dried material. Common devices include hand pipes, water pipes and rolling papers.

• VAPORIZING: Some vaporizers are for concentrate and some are made only for dried plant material. Vaporizers heat cannabis to a lower temperature than combusting, though still high enough to decarboxylate or “activate” the cannabinoids in a vapor form. Compared to combusting, vaporizing has less odor and avoids the health risks of smoking.

Any cannabis product that is applied to the skin.

• LOTIONS/BALMS: infused with cannabis and rubbed on affected areas. These are not reported to produce psychoactive effects.

• PATCHES: Deliver a consistent stream of cannabinoids through the skin. Good for maintaining a steady effect for a long duration. These have a longer onset than inhalation methods.

We our constantly improving and growing our product line. Please refer to our website, www.healthypharms.org, for an up-to-date menu of available products.

INHALATION

TOPICAL

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Cannabis products that are swallowed or digested have longer onset and longer lasting effects. The results of oral ingestion may vary significantly from inhalation as well as between individuals. The effects may also be impacted by the food you have recently eaten. If you are not experienced in ingesting cannabis products, it is highly recommended that you start with a low dose, such as 5 to 10 milligrams. A common mistake is to ingest more doses before feeling the full effects, which can lead to over-consumption.

• EDIBLES: Foods, candies or baked goods containing cannabis extract.

• SUBLINGUAL: Sublingual (under the tongue) such as a lozenge, spray or liquid. These take effect faster than oral ingestion, but not as quickly as inhalation. This is because it is absorbed through the membranes in the mouth.

• TINCTURE: Liquid cannabis extracts. Ideal for patients who wish to control and replicate dosing consistently. These can be added to foods, but are often used sublingually.

ORAL

Over-consumption can be very unpleasant and may produce panic attacks or anxiety for hours, until the effects subside. Any food that contains cannabis should therefore be eaten in small doses, with one to two hours allowed for onset. Do not increase the dose until the effects have worn off, and only increase dosage by small amounts. It may take several attempts until you know the proper dose for your condition.

IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY INFOR- MATION

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AVOID ACCIDENTAL INGESTION AND KEEP CHILDREN SAFE!

BE INFORMED OF RISKS!Marijuana has not been analyzed or approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). There is limited information available on its side-effects. There may be health risks associated with marijuana use, including tolerance, dependence and withdrawal.

DEPENDENCE: Marijuana is currently classified as a highly addictive substance with the potential for abuse. Psychological dependence can occur with the overuse of any substance. If you find your need for medical marijuana is negatively affecting your well-being, then we encourage you to seek help. Regardless of the substance, the signs of addiction include, but are not limited to:

• Becoming too focused on your medical marijuana use;

• Neglecting your responsibilities;

• Abandoning activities that you used to enjoy;

• Taking risks to obtain medical marijuana; and

• Using your medical marijuana to stop withdrawal symptoms.

KEEP ALL MEDICAL MARIJUANA AWAY FROM CHILDREN. YOUR PRODUCTS SHOULD ALWAYS BE STORED IN THEIR ORIGINAL PACKAGING, OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN AND IN A LOCKED, CHILDPROOF CONTAINER. TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL INGESTION BY YOU OR ANYONE ELSE, DO NOT STORE MARIJUANA INFUSED FOODS WITH OTHER FOODS OR OUTSIDE OF THEIR ORIGINAL PACKAGING.

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The Boston Public Health commission offers services to help individuals in the Greater Boston area treat addiction. You can find more information at www.bphc.org/whatwedo/Recovery-Services/Pages/RecoveryServices.aspx. The program is located at 774 Albany Street, 1st floor, Boston, MA 02118. Please call 1-855-494-4057 to receive additional information.

TOLERANCE: Over time you may build a tolerance to your dosage and require larger doses or a strain change. Tolerance will vary based on the consumption method. Do not assume that tolerance to one form of consumption will equate to tolerance for the same dose administered in an alternate way. If over-ingesting occurs, remain calm and wait for any negative side-effects to pass. Do not hesitate to contact your doctor with any questions or concerns with your medical use of marijuana treatment.

KNOW THE LAW!When under the influence of marijuana, driving is prohibited under state law. While under the influence of marijuana, you should not operate machinery and your judgment and reaction time are likely to be impaired.

Registered, qualified medical marijuana patients may not distribute marijuana to any other individual, and they must return any unused, excess or contaminated products to the dispensary where it was purchased for proper disposal.

Do not take your medical marijuana onto any federal property, including national parks or airports. The Massachusetts marijuana for medical use program is only applicable and legal in Massachusetts. Do not bring or send your marijuana out of the State of Massachusetts; doing so could make you subject to federal prosecution.

Medical marijuana may not be consumed at Healthy Pharms, Inc.’s facility or in any public place. All patients served by Healthy Pharms Inc. agree to abide by all state laws and regulations surrounding their medical marijuana use. State laws and regulations relating to the Massachusetts medical marijuana program can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website: www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/medical-marijuana/legal-reference.html.

PATIENT TRACKING JOURNAL

We encourage you to keep a journal and record your usage, at least until you find the right strains and dosages that work for you.

DATE STRAINMETHOD OF CONSUMPTION

DOSAGEEFFECT/DURATION

ADDITIONAL NOTES

Example:3/1/17

AC/DC Tincture 10mg Reduced anxiety for 4 hours

No psychoactive ef fect. Took 1 hour to feel ef fect.

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HOW TO FIND US

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WE ARE LOCATED AT 401 EAST MAIN ST. GEORGETOWN, MA 01833

DIRECTIONS:FROM I-95N: Take exit 54A (towards Rowley). Healthy Pharms Inc. is the first driveway after the ramp on your right, just before the “Entering Rowley” sign.

FROM I-95S: Take exit 54 and turn left at the end of the ramp, towards Rowley. Healthy Pharms Inc. is the first driveway on your right after crossing the overpass, just before the “Entering Rowley” sign.

FROM RT-133 EAST: Healthy Pharms Inc. is the first driveway on your right after crossing the I-95 overpass, just before the “Entering Rowley” sign.

FROM RT-133 WEST: Just after entering Georgetown, Healthy Pharms Inc. is the last driveway on your left before the I-95 overpass.

Please refer to our website www.healthypharms.org for contact information, our hours of operation and what products are currently available.

HEALTHY PHARMS INC.401 EAST MAIN STREETGEORGETOWN, MAWWW.HEALTHYPHARMS.ORG