Parents' experiences using medical cannabis for their child

Abstract

Background: Parents across the United States use medical cannabis for their children, often without professional guidance. These parents have become more expert on medical cannabis than most health professionals.

Purpose: Using a case-study design, this study was conducted to describe the experience of parents using medical cannabis for relief of seizures in their child or dependent.

Methods: Data were subjected to qualitative content analysis for the identification of patterns and themes.

Findings: Analysis of all data revealed seven themes including "Discovery of Cannabis as a Medication," "Guidance on Dosing," "Costs and Benefits of Cannabis," "Distrust of the Pharmaceutical Industry," "Federal Interference," "God and Cannabis," and "Changing Societal Perceptions about Medical Cannabis."

Discussion: Themes revealed a complex, multifaceted experience. Many parents report benefit from medical cannabis, and are not hindered by the financial costs or uncertainties. Political and social influences have significant impact on the stigmatization and normalization of cannabis.

Keywords: Cannabis; Case study; Marijuana; Pediatric epilepsy; Stigmatization.