Types of Medical Marijuana in Ohio: A Comprehensive Guide
Since the legalization of medical marijuana in Ohio in 2016, patients with qualifying conditions have gained access to a wide variety of cannabis products. These products come in different forms, each with its own unique properties, consumption methods, and benefits. In this article, we will explore the various types of medical marijuana available in Ohio dispensaries, helping patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
Dry Marijuana Flower
Dry marijuana flower is the most traditional and widely recognized form of cannabis. In Ohio, flower is categorized into two tiers based on THC content:
- Tier I: Contains up to 23% THC
- Tier II: Contains between 23% and 35% THC
It is important to note that smoking marijuana is not permitted in Ohio for medical patients, and it’s also prohibited to smoke recreational plant material in enclosed, public areas and while driving. Instead, patients must use a vaporizer to consume the flower. Vaporizing flower allows patients to experience the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, which work together to create the entourage effect, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of the plant.
Medical Marijuana Oils for Vaping
Medical marijuana oils, also known as concentrates, are highly potent products that can contain up to 70% THC. These oils come in various forms, including:
- Vape pens: All-in-one devices that combine a battery and a pre-filled cartridge
- Cartridges: Glass tubes with a 510 thread that attach to a separate battery
- Luster Pods: Pod-shaped cartridges that require a specific battery
- Syringes: Plastic tubes filled with oil that can be dabbed onto a vaporizer
When choosing a concentrate, patients may come across terms like “live resin” and “live rosin.” Live resin is extracted using solvents and fresh, flash-frozen cannabis, resulting in a highly potent and flavorful product. Live rosin, on the other hand, is extracted using heat and pressure, yielding a slightly less potent but solventless concentrate.
Edibles
Edibles are cannabis-infused food products that offer a discreet and convenient way to consume marijuana. Ohio dispensaries offer a diverse selection of edibles, including:
- Gummies
- Chocolates
- Beverages
- Syrups
- Honey
When consuming edibles, it is crucial to start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more, as the effects can be more intense and longer-lasting compared to other forms of marijuana.
Extracts
Marijuana extracts are highly concentrated products that are either ingested or inhaled.For inhalation, Ohio dispensaries offer a range of extracts. These products vary in texture and consistency based on the extraction method and solvents used.
Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that are taken sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into food and beverages. They offer a fast-acting and long-lasting alternative to other consumption methods. Tinctures can be alcohol-based or oil-based, with alcohol-based tinctures being more quickly absorbed and water-soluble.
Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, creams, and patches that are applied directly to the skin for localized relief of pain and inflammation. These products are non-psychoactive and can be particularly helpful for patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with arthritis and other chronic pain conditions.
Where to Buy Medical Marijuana in Ohio
Medical marijuana can only be purchased from licensed dispensaries in Ohio. These dispensaries are regulated by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and are located throughout the state. Patients with a valid medical marijuana card can visit any licensed dispensary to purchase their medication.
How Much Medical Marijuana Can I Buy?
In Ohio, patients are allowed to purchase a 90-day supply of medical marijuana, which is divided into two 45-day fill periods. The exact amount of marijuana that constitutes a 90-day supply varies depending on the form and potency of the product. For example:
- Flower: 8 ounces of Tier I (up to 23% THC) or 5.3 ounces of Tier II (23-35% THC)
- Oils for Vaping: 53.1 grams of THC
- Edibles: 9.9 grams of THC
- Patches: 26.55 grams of THC
Patients can use the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program’s online calculator to determine their 45-day fill period based on the date they received their recommendation.
THC Levels in Ohio Medical Marijuana Products
Ohio has set specific limits on the THC content allowed in medical marijuana products:
- Plant Material: Up to 35% THC
- Extracts and Concentrates: Up to 70% THC
- Edibles: Up to 50 milligrams of THC per single serving, with a maximum of 100 milligrams per package
These limits ensure that patients have access to potent medications while also promoting safe and responsible use.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio with Dr. Weedy
Getting a medical marijuana card in Ohio is now easier than ever with Dr. Weedy, a telemedicine platform that connects patients with certified medical marijuana doctors. Follow these simple steps to obtain your card:
1. Fill In Your Personal Data
Start by completing a brief, confidential questionnaire on the Dr. Weedy website. Providing your personal information is essential to begin the evaluation process and ensure a smooth, efficient experience.
2. Make a Payment
After filling in your details, proceed with your order by completing the secure payment process. If, for any reason, you are not approved, Dr. Weedy guarantees a full refund.
3. Consult a Doctor Online
Once your payment is processed, schedule a convenient 15-minute virtual consultation with a qualified physician. During this appointment, the doctor will assess your condition and determine if medical marijuana is a suitable treatment option for you.
4. Get Registered with the State Office
If the physician approves your use of medical marijuana, they will issue their recommendation and directly add it to the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program’s Patient & Caregiver Registry. You will then receive a separate notification from the Ohio office via email. To finalize your registration, you must pay a $50 annual state card registration fee.
5. Obtain Your Medical Cannabis Card
After completing the application process on the Ohio Registry portal and submitting the registration fee, your medical marijuana card will be activated and available for download. It’s important to note that the Board of Pharmacy does not provide physical copies of Ohio medical marijuana cards. Instead, you must either print out your digital card or have it easily accessible on your mobile device when making purchases at a dispensary.
By choosing Dr. Weedy, you can streamline the process of obtaining your medical marijuana card in Ohio, granting you access to the wide variety of medical marijuana products available in the state. From dry flower and vape oils to edibles, tinctures, and topicals, Ohio’s medical marijuana program offers patients a diverse range of options to suit their individual needs and preferences. With your card in hand, you can explore the therapeutic potential of these various cannabis products and find the ones that work best for you.
