Improvement and development of medicinal cannabis therapy in Puerto Rico

The medicinal cannabis program in Puerto Rico started in 2016.

Today, you can find quality products and dispensaries all over the island.

But the system faces a challenge: supply exceeds demand, and many are debating whether to allow recreational use. In light of this debate, I propose strengthening the medical approach and positioning Puerto Rico as a scientific leader in medicinal cannabis.

1. Universal Recommendation

A standardized format for medical cannabis recommendations can improve the experience for both doctors and patients. A clear and consistent format allows everyone to tailor treatment to each individual case, ensuring consistency and transparency. Imagine visiting different doctors and having them all follow the same guidelines: less confusion, more confidence in your therapy.

2. Bone Marrow Inventory

Maintaining a basic inventory of products with precise dosages and compositions helps predict effects and adjust treatment according to the condition. This prevents patients from trying products randomly and allows doctors to provide more effective follow-up. If your doctor knows exactly what you're taking, they can make better recommendations and reduce risks.

3. Education and Observational Study

Educational programs and ongoing studies can identify what works, what doesn't, and what the adverse effects are. Imagine a system where doctors collect real patient data to improve therapies. Have you wondered if your experience with medical cannabis could help others? Sharing it can be key to better understanding the benefits and risks.

4. Integration with the Conventional Health Team

When your family doctor, specialist, and pharmacist work together, everything becomes simpler. Sharing information and reviewing the treatment plan as a team prevents duplicate treatments and reduces errors. General practitioners, not just specialists, should also receive training in medical cannabis. This way, you can be confident that all the professionals involved understand your needs and can adjust your treatment in real time.

5. Integration of Mind-Body Therapies

Medical cannabis can be combined with somatic, cognitive, and mindfulness interventions. If you have anxiety or chronic pain, adding breathing exercises or cognitive therapy can improve your results and well-being. Have you tried complementing your treatment with mindfulness practices? Your experience can change if you address body and mind together.

6. Public Policy: Harm Reduction and Regulation of High THC Products

Protecting teenagers and those who use potent products should be a priority. Monitoring and regulating the concentration of TC in products reduces risks.

Dispensaries must provide clear information and comply with the law. Products with a balanced ratio of THC, CBD, CBG, and terpenes can offer therapeutic benefits with fewer psychoactive effects. Did you know that heavy use of potent cannabis can affect your mental health? Educational campaigns targeting young people and strict oversight of sales prevent harm and promote responsible consumption.

Puerto Rico has an opportunity to advance the quality and safety of medical cannabis. If you are a patient, healthcare professional, or a family member who uses these products, your opinion and participation can make a difference. What changes do you think would make the use of medical cannabis safer and more effective on the island?

ABOUT DR. JAIME CLAUDIO

Dr. Jaime Claudio is an honorary professor of Family Medicine at the University of Puerto Rico, host of "Saludemos," and a founding member of the cannabis medicine certification program. He has certified 7,000 patients and authored a practical guide on medicinal cannabis. He is the first clinician certified in the Bredesen Protocol for Alzheimer's prevention in Puerto Rico. He directs the Puerto Rico Longevity Mind Project, which combines medicine with artificial intelligence and modern communication to educate the public about longevity and brain health.