As the opioid crisis continues to impact communities nationwide, patients and providers alike are seeking safer, evidence-based alternatives for chronic pain relief. In a recent interview, Dr. Matthew Mintz, an internal medicine physician with decades of experience in primary care and academic medicine, joined Dr. Jay Greenstein with Kaizo Health to discuss one such alternative that’s gaining traction: medical cannabis.

Dr. Mintz, who now runs a concierge internal medicine practice in Bethesda, Maryland, has certified nearly 400 patients for medical cannabis since its introduction in the state. His decision to begin working with cannabis came not only from growing patient demand but also from firsthand conversations with dispensary leaders, which opened his eyes to the plant’s potential as a safe and effective option for managing pain.

Safety, Personalization, and the Road Ahead

Unlike opioids, which can be highly addictive and carry a substantial risk of overdose, cannabis does not act on the same receptors in the brain and does not carry the same fatal risks. For many of Dr. Mintz’s patients, cannabis has offered meaningful symptom relief, particularly in cases of chronic pain, without the dangerous side effects linked to traditional prescription pain medications like opioids, NSAIDs, or muscle relaxants.

Understanding Cannabis: More Than Just THC

Dr. Mintz emphasized the importance of understanding the different compounds within the cannabis plant, primarily THC and CBD. While THC is often associated with the psychoactive effects of marijuana, it also plays a therapeutic role in pain relief and muscle relaxation. CBD, on the other hand, offers anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety benefits without inducing a “high.” In many cases, a combination of the two, especially in carefully dosed, non-inhaled formats like topicals, capsules, or tinctures, can provide optimal relief.

However, Dr. Mintz also acknowledged the challenges of working within a system where federal restrictions limit research and standardization. Because cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I drug at the federal level, extensive clinical trials and dosing guidelines are still limited. As a result, patients often rely on guidance from experienced dispensary staff or certified physicians to find the best strain, dose, and delivery method for their specific condition.

Dr. Matthew Mintz on a Complement to Integrative Care

Looking ahead, Dr. Matthew Mintz believes federal reclassification is likely and necessary. “Once the legal status changes,” he says, “you’ll see research being done, you’ll see the medical community more willing to prescribe [it].” He also sees a future where cannabis is covered by insurance, especially as data accumulates showing the cost savings from reduced side effects, fewer procedures, and improved quality of life.

“Once the legal status changes, you’ll see research being done, you’ll see the medical community more willing to prescribe [it].”

— Dr. Matthew Mintz, Principal Investigator at DelRicht Research

While cannabis is not a cure-all, it is a meaningful addition to the toolbox of options available for chronic pain management, alongside physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and other integrative approaches. As research continues and awareness grows, medical cannabis is increasingly recognized not as an alternative of last resort, but as a thoughtful, evidence-informed path toward safer, more individualized care.

This thoughtful conversation between Dr. Matthew Mintz, principal investigator at DelRicht Research, and Dr. Greenstein of Kaizo Health is a must-watch for providers and patients interested in responsible, evidence-based pain management. Watch the full interview here: Cannabis in Healthcare: An Evidence-Based Alternative for Chronic Pain Management

At DelRicht Research, we’re committed to advancing safe, effective treatment options through clinical research and education. As new therapies emerge, including plant-based alternatives, we continue to champion innovation that supports better outcomes for all patients.