Pick: Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain
For veterans with chronic pain, medical cannabis is the first option after basic VA care fails. A 2017 National Academies report found moderate evidence that cannabis reduces chronic pain. VA doctors cannot prescribe or recommend cannabis. They can discuss it. Veterans in 38 states can get a medical card. The card costs $50 to $200. Product costs $200 to $500 per month. VA does not cover cannabis.
What Traditional Medicine Covers
Traditional VA care includes physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, non-opioid drugs, and opioids. The VA covers most of these. A 30-day prescription costs $0 to $16. The VA also provides disability compensation. About half of veterans report chronic pain. About 11% to 12% have PTSD. The VA treats PTSD with therapy and SSRIs. The evidence for cannabis for PTSD is weak. The National Academies found insufficient evidence for PTSD.
Medical Cannabis for Veterans Near Me: Dispensary Guide
How They Compare
- Evidence: Moderate for cannabis and chronic pain. Strong for traditional care for PTSD and pain.
- Cost: VA care is $0 to $16 per prescription. Cannabis is $200 to $500 per month.
- Access: VA care is nationwide. Cannabis is state-by-state.
- Legal: VA doctors cannot recommend cannabis. State programs allow it.
- Side effects: Opioids carry a risk of dependence and overdose. Cannabis carries a risk of dependence in about 1 in 11 users.
Options After the Pick
- Medical cannabis alone for chronic pain. Best if traditional care has not worked.
- Traditional medicine alone. Best for PTSD or if cost is a barrier.
- Combination. Use cannabis with VA care. Tell your VA doctor about all cannabis use. Cannabis can interact with warfarin, SSRIs, and benzodiazepines.
Bottom Line
For chronic pain, pick medical cannabis if you live in a legal state and can afford it. For PTSD, pick traditional VA care first. For both, tell your VA doctor. VA benefits are not denied for cannabis use.