Intractable Headaches: Cannabis in Oklahoma

Intractable headaches are severe, chronic headaches that are resistant to standard treatments. These headaches can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, causing debilitating pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and more. While traditional treatments such as prescription medications and lifestyle changes may work for some, others continue to suffer from persistent, unrelenting headaches. For these individuals, medical cannabis is emerging as an alternative treatment option, offering hope for relief.

In Oklahoma, patients with qualifying conditions can access medical cannabis through the state’s medical marijuana program. This article will explore how cannabis may help alleviate the symptoms of intractable headaches, the scientific evidence behind its use, and how to obtain medical marijuana in Oklahoma.

What Are Intractable Headaches?

Intractable headaches, also known as refractory headaches, are a type of headache that does not respond to conventional treatments. They can occur on a daily or near-daily basis and can be classified into various types, including:

• Chronic migraines
• Cluster headaches
• Tension headaches
• New daily persistent headache (NDPH)

These headaches can be triggered by a variety of factors such as stress, hormonal changes, head trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head
• Nausea and vomiting
• Light and sound sensitivity
• Neck stiffness or pain
• Visual disturbances (auras)

Living with intractable headaches can be incredibly challenging, especially when traditional therapies fail to provide relief. This is where medical cannabis may offer a promising alternative.

How Cannabis Can Help Intractable Headaches

Cannabis has been used for centuries to alleviate pain and treat various medical conditions, including headaches. The active compounds in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and other bodily functions. For individuals with intractable headaches, cannabis may help in the following ways:

Pain Relief

One of the primary reasons people turn to cannabis is for pain relief. Cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) have been found to reduce the perception of pain by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system. A 2016 study published in Pharmacotherapy found that the frequency of migraine headaches was significantly reduced in patients who used medical cannabis. For intractable headache sufferers, cannabis may help reduce the intensity and frequency of painful episodes.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation in the blood vessels and tissues surrounding the brain is believed to play a role in migraine and other headache disorders. Cannabis, particularly CBD, is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate headache symptoms. By targeting inflammation at its source, cannabis may provide relief for those whose headaches are triggered or worsened by inflammatory processes.

Reducing Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of migraines and intractable headaches. THC, in particular, has well-documented anti-nausea effects and has been used in FDA-approved medications like dronabinol to treat nausea. By reducing nausea, cannabis may help improve the quality of life for headache sufferers who experience this debilitating symptom.

Muscle Relaxation

Many individuals with intractable headaches experience muscle tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, which can exacerbate their symptoms. Cannabis, especially THC, has muscle-relaxant properties that may help ease tension and reduce the frequency of headache episodes. For those dealing with tension headaches or cluster headaches, cannabis may offer significant relief by relaxing the muscles and reducing pain.

Improving Sleep and Reducing Anxiety

Chronic headaches can lead to sleep disturbances and increased anxiety, both of which can make headache symptoms worse. Cannabis, particularly CBD, is known for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects and ability to promote relaxation. By reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, cannabis may help break the cycle of stress and sleep deprivation that often contributes to chronic headaches.

Scientific Research on Cannabis and Headaches

While more research is needed, several studies have shown promising results regarding the use of cannabis for headache management:

• A 2016 study published in Pharmacotherapy found that medical cannabis reduced the frequency of migraines in the majority of patients studied. Participants reported an average reduction in migraines from 10.4 to 4.6 per month after using cannabis.
• A 2019 study published in the Journal of Pain showed that inhaled cannabis reduced headache severity by 47.3% and migraine severity by 49.6%.
• A 2020 review in Brain Sciences highlighted the potential of cannabinoids to act on the pain pathways involved in migraine and chronic headaches, suggesting that cannabis could be a valuable tool in managing refractory headache disorders.

While these studies are encouraging, it’s important to note that individual responses to cannabis can vary, and more clinical trials are needed to fully understand its efficacy for treating intractable headaches.

How to Get Medical Marijuana for Intractable Headaches in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has a well-established medical marijuana program that allows patients with qualifying conditions to access cannabis legally. If you believe that cannabis could help manage your intractable headaches, you can apply for a medical marijuana card through the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA).

Steps to Get a Medical Marijuana Card

1. Complete an online application: Visit a telemedicine clinic like Oklahoma Cannabis Card and fill out an online form with your medical history and headache symptoms.
2. Consult with a certified cannabis doctor: You’ll have a virtual consultation with a licensed doctor in Oklahoma, who will evaluate whether medical cannabis is a suitable treatment for your headaches.
3. Receive your certification: If the doctor approves your application, you’ll receive a recommendation for medical cannabis, allowing you to apply for your medical marijuana card through OMMA.
4. Submit your application to OMMA: Once you have your doctor’s recommendation, submit your application to OMMA. You’ll receive your medical marijuana card within 14-30 days if approved.

Oklahoma residents can get their medical marijuana card for $129 through Oklahoma Cannabis Card. Renewals are required every two years and cost $99.

Legal Considerations for Medical Cannabis in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, patients with a valid medical marijuana card can legally purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. The state has more than 2,000 dispensaries, making it easy for patients to access a variety of cannabis products, including tinctures, oils, edibles, and flower.

It’s important for patients to follow Oklahoma’s medical marijuana laws, which prohibit the use of cannabis in public places and while driving. Additionally, registered patients are allowed to grow up to six mature cannabis plants and six seedlings at home, as long as they are not visible from public view.

Conclusion

For individuals living with intractable headaches, medical cannabis offers a potential pathway to relief when traditional treatments fail. Whether it’s managing chronic pain, reducing nausea, or improving sleep, cannabis may provide a natural and effective alternative for headache sufferers. With Oklahoma’s supportive medical marijuana program, patients have legal access to this promising treatment option.

If you’re considering medical cannabis for your intractable headaches, it’s important to consult with a certified cannabis doctor. They can guide you through the process and help determine the best approach for your symptoms. To begin your journey, visit Oklahoma Cannabis Card and apply for your medical marijuana card for $129.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I qualify for a medical marijuana card if I have intractable headaches?

Oklahoma does not have a specific list of qualifying conditions. The decision is left to the discretion of a certified cannabis doctor, who will evaluate whether your intractable headache symptoms can be managed with cannabis.

2. How long is the medical marijuana card valid in Oklahoma?

Medical marijuana cards in Oklahoma are valid for two years. You can renew your card through clinics like Oklahoma Cannabis Card for $99.

3. Can I grow my own cannabis in Oklahoma?

Yes, registered medical marijuana patients in Oklahoma are allowed to grow up to six mature cannabis plants and six seedlings at home, as long as they are not visible to the public.

4. How much does it cost to get a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma?

The standard fee for obtaining a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma is $129. Renewals cost $99 every two years.

5. Can I use cannabis in public places in Oklahoma?

No, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public places in Oklahoma. Patients should only use cannabis in private settings.