Marijuana has a long medical history, ranging from its anecdotal use in ancient times, through medical prescription in the 19th and early 20th centuries century until modern times. "The first mention of cannabis as a medicine is found in the oldest Chinese pharmacopoeia, Shen Nag Ben Cao Jing, written during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25 to 220 AD). It was indicated for rheumatic pain , malaria, constipation and disorders of the female reproductive system” (Greenwell, 2012, Vol. 26 Issue 1) “Pain is one of the most common reasons why medical cannabis is recommended” Scientists have known for a long time. that tetrahydracannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in marijuana, is an effective pain reliever” (Mcdonagh, 2003). by acting on certain sites in the brain and spinal nerves. These specific sites are called cannabinoid receptors. The cannabinoid compound connects to these receptors, much like two puzzle pieces fitting together. Once joined, the receptor changes the way the brain cell or nerve cell functions. This altered function changes how the cell perceives the painful stimulus, often reducing the intensity of pain interpreted by the brain” (Greenwell, 2012, Vol. 26 Issue 1). “The effect of cannabinoid compounds on cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) present in the brain can create various pharmacological responses based on formulation and patient characteristics” (Borgelt, Franson, & Nussbaum, 2013). Several small clinical studies have confirmed the usefulness of THC, which at doses of 15 to 20 mg has been shown to be comparable to 60 to 120 mg of pharmaceutical painkillers. But what form of pain management...... middle of paper ......ug or valuable medicine? (cover story). Science News, 151(12), 178. Mcdonagh, S.S. (2003). Turn off the pain. Science News, 164(7), 99-100. Kita, J. (1998). Can painkillers harm you?. Men's Health (10544836), 13(6), 80. Michaels, D. (2005). DOUBT is their product. Scientific American, 292(6), 96-101. The Union: the business behind the highs. Real. Brett Harvey. 2007. Borgelt, LM, Franson, KL and Nussbaum, AM (2013). The pharmacological and clinical effects of medical cannabis. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, 33(2), 195-209. doi:10.1002/phar.1187Drug overdose in the United States: fact sheet. (April 9, 2014). Retrieved from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/overdose/facts.htmlKowalski, KM (2003, April/May). Why Rx can mean danger. Current Health, 29(8), p.. 6.