The Differences Between Medical and Adult-Use Marijuana

A majority of US states have legalized medical marijuana, but currently, only a handful allow both medical and recreational. With Michigan being one of those few, we are lucky indeed. But with the legalization of both, it can be unclear as to what the actual differences between the two are. In short, there aren’t many variances among them. But here is a breakdown of some of the more nuanced differences between adult-use and medical marijuana.

Intent

Intent is one of the significant differences between medical and recreational marijuana. The reason one chooses to consume cannabis decides what type of product they will need.  For most people using recreational marijuana, they are generally seeking a high for various reasons.

Medical patients, on the other hand, are looking to ease pain and other symptoms associated with their illness. While some may enjoy the traditional high, many seek relief only. Therefore many medical marijuana products contain higher CBD (the compound responsible for many of the relieving effects) and lower THC to avoid feeling buzzed.

Who Can Buy

Anyone 21+ can buy adult-use marijuana. To purchase medical cannabis, however, you must have a Michigan Medical Marijuana Card. To obtain a card, one must be diagnosed by a physician and be approved for an application. Minors may obtain cannabis with a designated caregiver over the age of 21.

Products

The quality between medical and adult-use is almost always going to be identical as they are grown in the same facilities. Michigan does have stricter testing standards for medical but it is all the same product. For edibles, the THC limit is higher in medicinal. In adult-use, 100mg per package is the legal limit, with each serving being 10mg or less. For medical patients, they are allowed up to 200mg per package and up to 50mg per serving.