With the legalization of medical marijuana (MMJ) in the United States becoming more widespread, it was critical for ophthalmologists to grasp the implications of MMJ and glaucoma therapy and how it may affect their patients. Researchers sought to find if inhaled tetrahydrocannabinol can lower intraocular pressure for a study. The American Glaucoma Society (AGS) believed that medical marijuana was not an effective treatment for glaucoma. Also, researchers sought to assess glaucoma experts’ perspectives and attitudes concerning the use of MMJ in the treatment of glaucoma. Members of the AGS were sent an internet survey about their attitudes and perceptions about the use of MMJ in the treatment of glaucoma. Practitioner demographics, previous encounters with patients discussing the topic, prescribing practices, and understanding of the usage of MMJ for the treatment of glaucoma were among the study’s questions. Furthermore, 37% of respondents said they had patients who said they were taking MMJ for their glaucoma, and 38% said their patients asked about MMJ at least once a week. Patients who sought MMJ prescriptions were requested by 55% of respondents. When asked if marijuana could have a role in the treatment of glaucoma sufferers, 27% of those who took the survey said yes. MMJ information was retained in the offices of 14% of survey respondents. Finally, 76% of respondents said they would be interested in more information on the subject. Despite the professional society’s recommendation, over 25% of glaucoma experts believed MMJ has a role in the treatment of glaucoma. This group was the least likely to have been taught about the subject. Given the growing legality of marijuana in the United States and patient curiosity about its effects on glaucoma, ophthalmologists needed to better understand the effects of marijuana on glaucoma.
