Welcome to Doc’s Corner. I am Robert J. Csorba, DO and have officially joined the MedPro Group in Wooster after two decades of affiliation with its doctors. I am writing to update you about marijuana and address some of the concerns presented to me and those which also concern me.

I often hear it’s legal in Ohio. Also, President Trump directed the Department of Justice to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. Schedule I drugs are those which have no medical use and a high potential of abuse/misuse. Schedule III drugs are those which have acceptable medical use and moderate potential for dependence/misuse. Once the rescheduling is complete, the criminality of possession, use, etc. of marijuana will be less in Schedule II than Schedule I drug classification under the Controlled Substance Act.

As it relates to employment, marijuana use is still frequently prohibited. The Department of Transportation (DOT) forbids use of marijuana and other THC products. Other safety sensitive positions also prohibit use. Many employers have substance abuse prevention and safety policies which still ban use.

Drug testing is utilized as a tool to enforce drug abuse regulations and policies. There are no approved medical tests available to monitor the real-time level of intoxication from marijuana like there is with alcohol. There are technologies in the stages of development and/or clearance which would allow us to determine the level of intoxication at the time of the test. These new technologies will enable employers and law enforcement to differentiate between intoxication and past use.

I would strongly recommend you think twice before deciding to use marijuana for recreational purposes. Depending upon your job functions and health issues, it could cause problems in your life and effect your financial status.

Marijuana plants produced today have a much higher potency than prior generation’s production. All medications and drugs affect the human body, your organs and your brain in some capacity. Any drug used over time will result in tolerance and possibly addiction.

In states where marijuana is approved for recreational or medical use, medical issues have developed that were not known prior to increased use. Related conditions include cardiovascular and pulmonary disease risk, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes such as premature births, low birth weights, stunted brain development, lower educational attainment, diminished motivation and life satisfaction, psychosis and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

Knowing all the side effects of any medication is important whether it is prescribed, over the counter, legal or illegal. Please ask yourself if you are willing to live with the decision you make and the consequences it could have on you, your family and your community at large.

Just because it’s legal does not mean it’s the right choice for you!



Be safe & healthy,

Robert J. Csorba, DO