While medical marijuana and street marijuana may sound the same, there are actually a lot of differences that set them apart. One such difference is the legal regulation that allows patients to get approved in minutes at TeleLeaf for a medical marijuana card.
From legal regulations to quality control measures, different factors contribute to determining medical marijuana from its street counterpart. Discover what sets these two forms apart and how they impact patients in Louisiana.
Differences in Legal Status
Medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana for patients with qualifying conditions. To access medical marijuana, these patients must obtain a recommendation from a licensed physician. This process ensures that the use of marijuana for medical purposes is regulated and safe for those who truly need it.
On the flip side, street marijuana doesn’t have any of the legal protections or quality controls that medical marijuana has. Street marijuana lacks such legal backing and oversight. It is illegal for adult use and distribution outside of the state’s medical marijuana program. Possession and sale of street marijuana can also result in legal consequences.
Medical Marijuana Comes from a Licensed Dispensary/Pharmacy
Medical marijuana comes from licensed dispensaries, which are regulated by the state. Patients must first consult with a certified physician who can recommend medical cannabis based on specific qualifying conditions. After receiving a recommendation, patients are issued a medical marijuana card, granting them the legal right to purchase their medication from licensed dispensaries.
These dispensaries are closely monitored by state authorities to make sure they follow strict safety and quality standards. This also guarantees that the product undergoes standard procedures as set by the state’s guidelines.
Street Marijuana Comes from Unverified Sources
Conversely, street marijuana has an unknown origin or comes from an unverified source. Buyers have no guarantees regarding the quality or safety of the product they’re getting. Often, street marijuana can be laced with harmful substances or contain contaminants that pose serious health risks. There’s no guarantee about how it was grown, processed, or stored.
Patients using medical marijuana can trust that their medication adheres to health standards —a level of assurance absent when purchasing from unlicensed sellers.
Medical Marijuana Offers Legitimate Products
Medical marijuana comes in flower, edibles, oils, concentrates, and more. Each product comes with a label showing the potency (amount of THC and CBD) and the cannabinoid profile (the specific mix of cannabinoids present).
The entire production and distribution process of medical marijuana is also closely monitored. This includes tracking from seed to sale and implementing strong security measures to prevent diversion or tampering
This process is not just about keeping the product safe. This also guarantees consistency in THC and CBD levels. This ensures patients receive the right dosage they need for their qualifying condition. It’s a level of precision street marijuana can’t match.
Street Marijuana Has Limited or Even Unverified Products
Street marijuana comes with significant dangers. It is typically just a flower of unknown potency and cannabinoid profile. Without testing, users have no way of knowing if their purchase contains harmful substances. Pesticides, heavy metals, or other contaminants can pose serious health risks.
The unpredictability of THC levels in street marijuana is a health hazard. High THC levels can lead to adverse effects, especially for new users or those with certain health conditions.
Medical marijuana offers a safer alternative, with controlled dosages tailored to the patient’s needs.
Medical Use vs. Adult Use
Medical marijuana is intended for therapeutic use with a doctor’s supervision. Doctors can recommend medical marijuana for different qualifying conditions such as:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy
- Panic Disorder
- And more!
Its primary goal is therapeutic, aiming to improve patients’ quality of life and manage symptoms.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Understanding the basic differences between medical and street marijuana is critical. Medical marijuana offers a legal, regulated way to access this option under a doctor’s guidance.
Street marijuana, on the other hand, is illegal and carries significant risks due to its unregulated nature.
By choosing the legal and regulated path of medical marijuana, you can make informed decisions about your health and explore the therapeutic benefits it has to offer.
