MMJ: The More You Know, Ya Know

What’s the deal with the “child-proof” bags? – A.G.

I know, right? So annoying. My budtender showed me how to open it, but by the time I got home, I’d forgotten the instructions and it took me like two whole minutes to figure it out. It’s a small annoyance, but not a big deal. State law says clubs have to do this, one of those “what about the children!?!?” deals.

I wouldn’t get too worked up about it. Just think of it as more proof that cannabis creates jobs – not just for growers and sellers, but for all sorts of ancillary businesses. You can always put your dank in your stash box when you get home.

I have fibromyalgia and take Norco as prescribed by my doctor. I have discovered that also using medical cannabis greatly relieves my discomfort. However, my doctor says he will not prescribe Norco as long as I am using cannabis and he insists on a urine test before he will re-prescribe Norco. Is there a solution to this dilemma? – I Need Both

I am not a medical professional, but I would say: Get a new doctor. A doctor who would prefer you use opiates instead of cannabis is most likely not the doctor for you. Cannabis has fewer side effects than opiates, and less chance of addiction. States with legal marijuana have lower rates of opiate overdose and death. If finding a new doctor isn’t an option, you may be able to change their mind. I would recommend you point your doctor to some studies that show cannabis to be effective in treating fibromyalgia. Good luck.

Back in my day (1960s), pot was pot, but now I find I know nothing about it. I want to become more informed, specifically about something I can take to make me feel calm but not stoned. I can’t smoke, but hoped there might be an edible or tincture that could be taken in small amounts. Where I can learn more? – Elizabeth

Welcome back! You are correct, there are plenty of edibles and tinctures that could probably smooth you out. Look for a low THC (5 milligrams or so) edible or tincture that’s high in CBD. Leafly and Weedmaps are excellent online sources of information. Most dispensaries these days are staffed by reputable and knowledgeable people, so go for a visit and ask!