ATLANTA, GA — Georgians living with chronic musculoskeletal pain may have a promising alternative to traditional pain medications. A new study published in Cureus found that medical cannabis not only provides effective pain relief but can also reduce the need for opioids—without impairing mental clarity.
The research, conducted by the Rothman Institute Foundation for Opioid Research & Education, explored how patients use medical cannabis, what benefits they experience, and whether long-term use impacts brain function.
Relief Without Cognitive Decline
Over 80% of patients in the study reported significant pain reduction with medical cannabis. Many also saw improvements in sleep and anxiety, suggesting the plant offers broader relief than conventional pain medications.
“Patients aren’t just finding relief from pain,” said Dr. Mohammad Khak, a co-author of the study. “They’re also seeing benefits that improve their overall quality of life.”
Perhaps most striking, 40% of participants cut back on traditional pain medications, and several reported using fewer opioids after starting cannabis therapy.
“This data suggests medical cannabis could serve as a safer alternative or complement to traditional painkillers,” said Dr. Ari Greis, senior author and board member at the Rothman Foundation.
Safe for the Mind, Helpful for the Body
One of the most common concerns about long-term cannabis use is whether it affects memory or mental sharpness. However, the study found no significant cognitive decline among participants. While some reported mild side effects like dry mouth or fatigue, mental performance remained stable.
“These results suggest medical cannabis can be safely integrated into pain management plans without compromising mental clarity,” Greis noted.
Barriers and the Need for Reform
Despite strong results, only about one in four participants had a doctor’s recommendation for cannabis use—highlighting ongoing barriers such as physician education gaps, restrictive laws, and lingering stigma.
The researchers call for more large-scale studies, better physician training, and clearer medical cannabis regulations to support safe, evidence-based care.
For Georgians, these findings add to growing national evidence that medical cannabis could play a valuable role in managing chronic pain—especially as the state continues to expand access to low-THC medical cannabis products.
📄 Read the full study: Patterns, Efficacy, and Cognitive Effects of Medical Cannabis Use in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Patients (Cureus)
🔗 Learn more about the Rothman Institute Foundation: www.rothmanopioid.org
Accessing Medical Cannabis in Georgia
Now, Georgia patients have access to medical cannabis too—offering a safe, plant-based alternative for finding relief. With the state’s medical program in place, qualifying patients can explore cannabis as part of their wellness journey and experience its potential benefits firsthand.
Getting your Georgia medical cannabis card is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
1. Start Your Application Online
Begin by signing up through a licensed provider’s website such as Elevated Health MD to schedule your medical evaluation. To book your appointment, you will first need to submit payment, upload a valid Georgia ID to confirm your state residency and then select your qualifying condition.
2. Check for a Qualifying Condition
Georgia law requires patients to have a state-approved qualifying condition. When applying, you’ll need to select one of the following conditions:
PTSD (includes anxiety, depression, insomnia)
Intractable pain
Cancer
Seizure disorders (linked to epilepsy or traumatic brain injury)
ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Sickle cell disease
Crohn’s disease
Mitochondrial disease
AIDS
Alzheimer’s disease
Autism
Epidermolysis bullosa
Peripheral neuropathy
Tourette’s syndrome
Hospice care patients
3. Have Your Medical Evaluation
After confirming your qualifying condition and submitting your ID and payment, you can schedule your consultation. Choose a day and time that works for you — appointments are typically done over the phone and last about 5–10 minutes.
If the doctor determines that you qualify, they will forward your information to the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) for card processing.
4. Pay the State Fee
Once approved, you’ll receive an email from the DPH with a link to make a one-time $33.75 payment. After payment, you’ll be issued a tracking number for your card. Note: someone will need to sign for the card upon delivery.
5. Use Your Medical Cannabis Card
With your card in hand (valid for five years), you can legally purchase medical cannabis products at any licensed dispensary in Georgia and begin your journey of relief.
If you’re ready to get your 5 year Georgia medical cannabis card through a trusted, Georgia-based provider, Elevated Health MD—founded in Atlanta—is a top choice. Their secure online platform makes the process simple and convenient: create an account, submit payment, schedule your evaluation call, and receive approval, often all in the same day.
Once you’ve received your medical cannabis card from the Georgia Department of Health, your first stop should be Botanical Sciences Dispensary—a company proudly founded in Georgia. As the state’s first physician-founded medical cannabis provider, Botanical Sciences delivers premium, clinically formulated products alongside compassionate support and expert guidance. Their plant-based relief is designed to promote restful sleep, support a healthy appetite, and provide lasting comfort—so you can live each day on your terms. For more information click on the link below:
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