Friday, May 22, 2020

Cannabis and COVID-19

There has been an overwhelming amount of misinformation about the novel coronavirus COVID-19 and, not surprisingly, some has involved the use of medical marijuana and CBD. We have even seen efforts to exploit the crisis to promote products such as "CBD hand sanitizer". There is no evidence to suggest that CBD improves the effectiveness of hand sanitizer. It is more important now than ever to get advice about your health from medical experts. This includes advice about the use of medical marijuana and CBD.

While there is no evidence to suggest cannabis or CBD can prevent infection from the coronavirus, there is evidence indicating that marijuana and CBD can impact the way our bodies react to infection, and the severity of the resulting illness. We frequently talk about the role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating "homeostasis". This includes regulation of our immune system and the way our bodies respond to infection.

Listed at the end of this email, you will find two links to articles that describe the current research (or lack of research) regarding cannabinoids and respiratory infections. There is some evidence that CBD and THC may reduce the "cytokine storm" that causes respiratory distress and death in many COVID-19 patients. This is consistent with what we know about cannabinoids and why they work in inflammatory conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis. We believe that the Endocannabinoid system is crucial in the regulation of our bodies‘ immune system.

We do not recommend taking medical marijuana or CBD to prevent COVID-19 infection. We do believe in the evidence that full spectrum CBD products can provide significant health benefits, including a healthy immune system. We agree with the current FDA recommendations that CBD products should be recommended by a medical professional and used under medical supervision. Route of administration is a patient’s choice. Please be aware there have been public agencies promoting stopping smoking and vaping of nicotine as well as THC. These statements have been made as generalized recommendations, and cannot specifically address the possible role of THC and other cannabinoids as potentially helpful due to their proven anti-oxidant properties.

As always, if you have any questions about your recommended products we are here to help you. We are available during normal business hours throughout the emergency at (561) 270-4040. Please continue to listen to the medical experts and keep your families safe. We sincerely hope we will be able to see you in person soon.
 
Dr. Mitchell Davis and the ComCan HealthCare Staff

5341 W. Atlantic Ave. Suite 306
Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-270-4040
comcanhealthcare@gmail.com


Click the links below: 

https://www.projectcbd.org/medicine/cannabis-cbd-covid-19

https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabis-and-immune-system