There are multiple ways for medical cannabis patients to consume marijuana. Among them is vaping. Like nicotine vapers, cannabis vapers can use a specialized vape pens that transform a liquid THC product into an aerosolized vapor that the patient inhales. THC is transferred from that vapor into the lungs and eventually the blood stream.
Vape pens are not the right choice for every medical cannabis user. But when they are the right choice, they make delivering THC to the bloodstream fairly easy and straightforward. If you are new to medical cannabis, here is what you need to know about vape pens:
1. They Are an Alternative to Smoking
Smoking remains the most common method for consuming cannabis, especially among recreational users. But some states with medical cannabis programs prohibit smoking. According to Salt Lake City’s marijuana dispensary Beehive Farmacy, Utah is one of them. But Beehive says that Utah does allow vaping.
Vape pens are an alternative to smoking that replicates the hand to mouth experience so many smokers are used to. It also achieves delivery through inhalation, just like smoking. So if you can’t smoke or simply don’t want to, vape pens are the next closest thing in terms of experience.
2. Controlling Intake Is Straightforward
Among the many advantages vaping offers is the ability for the patient to control intake. If a patient is feeling just a little bit off, a single hit from a vape pen can help without having to indulge in a full dose. When a full dose is called for, a patient can take as many kids as necessary.
3. Vape Pens Are Portable
Vape pens are convenient because they are also portable. You just slip your pen in your pocket and off you go. You always have your medication with you when you need it, regardless of where you happen to be at any given time. Just note that it is easy to forget you are carrying a vape pen. Do not go to the airport in hopes of getting on a plane without checking your pockets first. Transporting cannabis on a plane, in any form, is against the law.
4. Vape Pens Can Be Discreet
There are undoubtedly some medical cannabis users who prefer vape pens but only use them at home because they want to be discreet. Outside of the house, they use edibles or tinctures. But here is the thing: vape pens can be discreet.
It takes a little practice, but it is possible to take a hit from a vape pen, hold it in your lungs for five or six seconds, and then slowly exhale without ever creating that visible and smellable cloud normally associated with vaping. The practice is known as stealth vaping. Those who get good at it can do so without anyone knowing.
5. They Can Leak
The one downside to vape pens is that they can leak. You are less likely to experience leakage with a disposable device that is pretty much sealed up in the factory. If you use a pen with refillable cartridges though, the chances of leakage are greater.
As with anything else, a little experience will eventually help you figure out how to prevent leaks. Until then, it’s best to be careful. Do not carry a vape pen in your pocket if you worry about ruining your clothes.
Vape pens are but one way to consume medical cannabis. If they don’t do it for you, consider some of the other options. Edibles, concentrated oils, transdermal products, and other options are on the table. It is really a matter of figuring out what’s right for you.
