Role of the Endocannabinoid System and Medical Cannabis

Our bodies produce complex substrates called endocannabinoids, which attach to the endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors and impact many physiologic processes. Current research on the ECS and cannabis-based medications is accelerating in the presence of continued conflict between federal and state laws. In this article we present a summary of the latest information on the ECS, its receptors, and current research on the cannabis-based medicines and their potential to treat various disease pathologies and medical conditions. Our study includes the latest information on the continued legal ramifications nurse practitioners face in treating patients with these medications.