For patients with a medical cannabis card, the variety of medicinal cannabis products available can be overwhelming. However, certain products have become the go-to options for many patients seeking relief for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Based on nationwide trends, here are the four most common cannabis products that medical patients across the United States frequently turn to, along with data supporting their popularity.
1. Flower (Smokable Cannabis)
Cannabis flower remains a highly favored option for many medical patients. Smoking or vaporizing flower provides rapid symptom relief, making it a preferred choice for individuals managing conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and pain. Flower still dominates the cannabis market, accounting for approximately 49% of cannabis sales in the U.S. where medical cannabis is legal【source: BDS Analytics】. Patients appreciate the ability to control their dosage and the fast-acting effects that inhaling cannabis provides.
Why it’s popular: Instant relief and flexible dosing make it a top choice for patients dealing with immediate or severe symptoms.
2. Tinctures
Tinctures, liquid extracts typically taken sublingually (under the tongue), are another popular form of medical cannabis due to their ease of use and precise dosing capabilities. Medical patients often prefer tinctures because they offer long-lasting relief without the psychoactive high associated with inhaled cannabis. Tinctures are especially useful for those dealing with chronic pain or insomnia, and they made up 9% of cannabis sales in 2022【source: New Frontier Data】.
Why it’s popular: Tinctures provide consistent, long-lasting relief and are discreet and easy to use for patients seeking symptom management throughout the day.
3. Edibles
For patients looking for a discreet and long-lasting option, edibles such as gummies or baked goods are a popular alternative to smoking. They offer prolonged relief, ideal for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis or nerve pain. Edibles made up approximately 13% of medical cannabis sales in 2022, with many patients appreciating their discreet nature and the ease of controlling dosages【source: Headset Analytics】.
Why it’s popular: Edibles provide extended relief, making them an ideal choice for patients looking for all-day symptom management without frequent doses.
4. Topicals
For those needing targeted relief, cannabis-infused topicals—creams, balms, and lotions—are the go-to product. Patients with localized pain or inflammation benefit from topicals, which can be applied directly to the affected area. Topicals do not produce psychoactive effects, which makes them particularly appealing to individuals who need pain relief without mental impairment. Topicals made up 7% of cannabis sales in the medical market as of 2022【source: BDS Analytics】.
Why it’s popular: Patients appreciate the ability to relieve localized pain without experiencing any psychoactive effects, making it ideal for those needing focused symptom relief.
Why These Products Dominate the Market
The four products outlined—flower, tinctures, edibles, and topicals—remain the most frequently used by medical cannabis patients due to their flexibility, ease of use, and effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions. Each product category offers unique benefits, allowing patients to tailor their cannabis consumption to their specific needs, whether they need fast relief, extended effects, or targeted pain management.
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