Category: Medical Cannabis Updates

It has been a privilege to be able to serve the community by providing access to medical cannabis to those who use it for relief since 2017.

Our patients have received excellent support and assurance in a sector that can often be associated with much myth. We strive to provide a high quality experience to you, our patients. Communication is a big component of how the patients feel they are being treated.

When we first began in 2017, some practices took advantage of early adopters through price gouging. It is an interesting scenario because the market must regulate itself to offer fair prices to consumers, and at the beginning, people were getting taken advantage of.

Also, searching for access to the Florida cannabis program often led the patient/consumer to questionable operators and locations. It seemed that opportunists quickly networked to sign up as many patients as they could, and were willing to roam the state looking for interested parties willing to sign up with someone they really don’t know.

This is why I make it a point to show that we are your trusted primary care doctor with roots in the community. Since keeping the renewal rate at $85 for follow-ups since 2017, we are reluctantly increasing it to $100 for your cannabis renewals. This cost increase allows us to continue providing you with live phone support from Anesha and Afshaun, and to assure you that you are legitimately exercising your state constitutional right with a trusted doctor in the community.

We thank you for your understanding, and remind you again of our referral program. As many of you have been with us for several years and have gained so much relief with cannabis and being liberated and not having to rely on another entity, the 7-month renewal has become somewhat of a bill, and this program allows you to relatively easily reduce that by $20 a time and per referral you send us.

Our growth to one of the largest cannabis providers in the county was due to your referrals, and we sincerely appreciate this. The $20 referral credit was a simple thank-you and an incentive to keep growth going.

Thank you for allowing us to be your trusted source for medical cannabis and for understanding this price increase.

Please call us if you have any questions, and will talk to you soon.

Shaan Kunwar DO

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Living in Lakewood Ranch means an active lifestyle — golf, pickleball, long walks on the trails, and busy workdays. But chronic pain, poor sleep, anxiety, and other daily struggles don’t take a day off. That’s why thousands of our neighbors have turned to medical cannabis as a natural, plant-based option that often works when traditional medications fall short or cause too many side effects.

If you’ve been curious about whether medical cannabis could help you, this guide is for you. Dr. Shaan Kunwar, DO — a board-certified internal medicine physician who has practiced right here in East County since 2017 — explains the medical side of the process, what actually happens during a certification visit, and how patients in Lakewood Ranch are finding real relief in 2025.

Why More Lakewood Ranch Residents Are Choosing Medical Cannabis

In my practice I see the same themes over and over:

• Long-term back, neck, or joint pain from years of sports or desk work
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep (especially common in our 50+ community)
• Anxiety that makes it hard to unwind after a busy day
• Neuropathy, arthritis, migraines, IBS, and Crohn’s symptoms that flare despite other treatments

Medical cannabis isn’t a miracle cure, but for the right patient it can be life-changing — often with fewer side effects than opioids, sleeping pills, or high-dose anti-inflammatories.

What to Expect at Your Medical Cannabis Evaluation with Dr. Kunwar

The visit is just like any other doctor appointment — private, relaxed, and focused on your health history.

Here’s the simple flow:

1. We review your symptoms and past treatments
   We talk about what you’ve already tried and why it may not be working well enough.
2. Brief physical exam (required for first-time patients)
   This is quick and painless — blood pressure, heart/lung check, and a look at the area that hurts if needed.
3. Personalized recommendation
   If medical cannabis makes sense for you, I enter your information into the state registry the same day (most patients are approved within minutes). You’ll leave knowing exactly what forms and dosages tend to work best for people with symptoms like yours.
4. Follow-up care every 7 months
   The maximum interval between follow-up visits is 7 months. We have always kept our follow-ups affordable.

Cost

• New patient evaluation: $200
• 7-month follow-up: $85
  (Cash, check, or card — we keep pricing transparent and lower than many clinics in Sarasota or Tampa.)

Delivery Methods That Fit Lakewood Ranch Lifestyles (No Smoking Required)

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to smoke. In 2025, some patients don’t consume flower. Popular options include:

• Sublingual tinctures & oils – fast-acting, precise dosing
• Capsules – consistent dose, just like taking a vitamin
• Transdermal patches – steady all-day or all-night relief
• Low-dose edibles or gummies – great for sleep without morning grogginess
• Topical creams & balms – perfect for arthritis in hands, knees, or shoulders

We offer guidance on the above.

Common Conditions I Treat Successfully with Medical Cannabis

• Chronic pain (back, neck, knee, fibromyalgia)
• Insomnia and sleep-maintenance issues
• Anxiety and stress-related disorders
• Migraines and tension headaches
• Neuropathy (diabetic and chemotherapy-induced)
• Inflammatory bowel conditions (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
• PTSD and mood issues related to military service or life trauma

If it’s on Florida’s qualifying list and it’s affecting your quality of life, we can almost always help.Real Patient Results (Lakewood Ranch & East Manatee County)

• A 68-year-old golfer who cut his pain meds in half and sleeps through the night with a tincture + patch combo
• A 52-year-old remote worker whose daily anxiety dropped dramatically with micro-dosed capsules
• A breast-cancer survivor who finally controls neuropathy in her feet with topical cream and occasional vape for breakthrough pain

(Names and details changed for privacy — but these are real outcomes I see every week.)

Your Next Step – It’s Easier Than You Think

No long questionnaires, no pressure.

Simply call our office at 941-727-7771 and let the staff know you’re interested in a medical cannabis evaluation. We’ll find a time that works for you — same-week appointments are common.

Dr. Shaan Kunwar, DO
East County Internal Medicine
11009 Gatewood Drive, Suite 101
Bradenton, FL 34211

(5–10 minutes from anywhere in Lakewood Ranch)I look forward to helping you feel better — naturally and safely.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice.

Shaan Kunwar, DO – Medical Cannabis Bradenton

At the office, patients often ask me the same question: “How does medical cannabis actually help my condition?” The answer lies in one of the most fascinating systems in the human body: the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

What Is the Endocannabinoid System?

Discovered in the early 1990s while researchers were studying THC, the ECS is a complex cell-signaling network that helps maintain balance (homeostasis) throughout nearly every organ system. It’s active in your body even if you’ve never used cannabis.The ECS has three core components:

1. Endocannabinoids – Molecules your body naturally produces (the two best-studied are anandamide and 2-AG).
2. Cannabinoid Receptors – CB1 (mostly in the brain and nervous system) and CB2 (mostly in the immune system and peripheral tissues).
3. Enzymes – Break down endocannabinoids once they’ve done their job.

Think of the ECS as your body’s master regulator for:

• Pain sensation
• Mood and stress response
• Appetite and digestion
• Sleep cycles
• Inflammation and immune function
• Neuroprotection

When something throws these functions out of balance (chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, etc.), the ECS steps in to restore equilibrium.How Plant Cannabinoids (THC, CBD, and others) Interact with the ECSCannabis contains over 140 different phytocannabinoids. The two most researched are:

• THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) – Binds directly to CB1 receptors (primarily in the brain), which is why it can produce euphoria and strong pain relief. It also activates CB2 receptors to a lesser degree.
• CBD (Cannabidiol) – Does not bind strongly to CB1 or CB2. Instead, it gently modulates receptor activity, increases natural endocannabinoid levels, and interacts with serotonin, TRPV1 (“capsaicin”), and other non-cannabinoid receptors. This is why CBD is excellent for inflammation, anxiety, and seizures without causing intoxication.

Minor cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC) and terpenes (myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool) further fine-tune the therapeutic effects — this is called the entourage effect.Proven Therapeutic Effects Supported by Research

Condition	How the ECS & Cannabis Help
Chronic Pain	THC reduces pain signaling; CBD lowers inflammation
Anxiety & PTSD	CBD enhances anandamide (“bliss molecule”) and calms overactive stress circuits
Insomnia	THC in low-to-moderate doses + sedating terpenes (myrcene, linalool) promote sleep
Nausea / Appetite Loss	THC strongly activates CB1 receptors in the brainstem and gut
Neuroinflammation	CBD and CBG show powerful antioxidant and neuroprotective properties
Spasticity (MS, Parkinson’s)	Balanced THC/CBD ratios reduce muscle stiffness and tremors
Epilepsy	CBD (FDA-approved as Epidiolex®) dramatically reduces seizure frequency in rare epilepsies

Why Medical Supervision MattersWhile the ECS is remarkably safe (there are no documented overdose deaths from cannabis alone), the “right dose” and “right ratio” vary dramatically between patients. A strain that helps one person sleep may keep another awake. A high-THC product that eases one patient’s pain may worsen another’s anxiety.As a Florida-certified Qualified Physician, my role is to:

• Review your full medical history and current medications
• Recommend evidence-based cannabinoid ratios and delivery methods (inhalation, tinctures, capsules, topicals)
• Start low and titrate slowly to find your therapeutic window
• Monitor progress and adjust as needed

Final ThoughtsMedical cannabis isn’t a miracle cure, but for many patients suffering from chronic conditions, it offers something conventional medications often don’t: a chance to work with your body’s own regulatory system instead of overriding it.If you live in the Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, or Sarasota area and are interested in learning whether medical cannabis might help you, schedule a consultation today.

Shaan Kunwar, DO
East County Internal Medicine
11009 Gatewood Drive, Suite 104
Bradenton, FL 34211
(941) 727-7771
www.MedicalCannabisBradenton.com

Florida law requires a bona fide physician-patient relationship and certification that benefits outweigh risks. Same-day certifications available for qualifying conditions.

This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

In the sunny suburbs of Bradenton, Florida, where the Gulf Coast breeze offers a brief respite, chronic pain affects thousands of residents daily. According to recent studies, over 20% of Floridians suffer from chronic pain conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia—issues that disrupt sleep, limit mobility, and strain relationships.

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

For many, traditional treatments like opioids come with risks of addiction and side effects. Enter medical cannabis: a natural, state-approved alternative that’s transforming lives right here in our community. As a board-certified internal medicine physician specializing in medical cannabis certifications, Dr. Shaan Kunwar at East County Internal Medicine has helped hundreds of Bradenton patients rediscover comfort and vitality since 2017.If you’re searching for “medical cannabis Bradenton” or “chronic pain relief Florida,” this guide is for you. We’ll explore how medical marijuana (MMJ) works, its proven benefits, and simple steps to access it legally under Florida’s Amendment 2. Let’s dive in and uncover how this plant-based powerhouse could be your key to pain-free days.

Understanding Chronic Pain and Why Bradenton Residents Are Turning to Medical Cannabis

Chronic pain isn’t just a symptom—it’s a thief that steals your energy and joy. In Florida alone, conditions like lower back pain and joint inflammation drive millions to seek relief annually. A 2021 study from the Florida Gulf Coast University highlighted that medical cannabis users reported significant reductions in opioid use, positioning MMJ as a safer option for long-term management.

scholarscommons.fgcu.edu

What makes medical cannabis stand out? Unlike synthetic drugs, it interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system—a network of receptors that regulates pain, inflammation, and mood. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD target these receptors without the “high” many fear (especially with low-THC options). For Bradenton locals dealing with humid-weather aches or post-surgery recovery, this means targeted relief without drowsiness or dependency.

Local data backs this up: A mixed-methods study on Florida patients found that up to 70% experienced noticeable pain reduction after incorporating medical cannabis into their routines.

doi.org

Imagine biking along the Bradenton Riverwalk or playing catch with grandkids without wincing— that’s the promise we’re helping patients achieve.

Proven Benefits of Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain

Decades of research, including peer-reviewed trials, confirm medical cannabis’s efficacy. Here’s how it shines for common pain issues:

1. Reducing Inflammation and Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain—from diabetes or shingles—feels like electric shocks or burning. A Cochrane review cited in recent analyses shows patients can slash pain by up to 30% with cannabis therapies.

doi.org

In Bradenton, where our aging population faces higher neuropathy rates, CBD-dominant strains offer anti-inflammatory effects comparable to NSAIDs but with fewer gut issues.

2. Easing Musculoskeletal and Arthritis Pain

For osteoarthritis sufferers (affecting over 50% of adults over 65 in Florida), medical cannabis relaxes muscles and lubricates joints. One study on older adults reported an average pain drop from 71 to under 50 on a 100-point scale after just weeks of use.

ccorc.mmjoutcomes.org

Patients at our Lakewood Ranch clinic rave about regaining flexibility for golf outings or beach walks.

3. Improving Sleep and Mood Alongside Pain Relief

Chronic pain often breeds insomnia and anxiety—a vicious cycle. Medical cannabis addresses both: THC aids sleep onset, while CBD curbs anxiety. A PMC study of Florida adults found 80% reported better overall well-being, including mood lifts that make daily life in sunny Bradenton feel brighter.

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

These aren’t anecdotes; they’re evidence-based outcomes from real patients like you.

Navigating Florida’s Medical Cannabis Laws: What Bradenton Patients Need to Know

Florida’s Amendment 2, passed in 2016, made medical cannabis legal for qualifying conditions like chronic pain, cancer, PTSD, and more. No recreational use here—it’s strictly for medical needs, ensuring safe, regulated access.

Eligibility Quick Check:

• Do you have a documented chronic condition unresponsive to traditional treatments?
• Are you 21+ (or 18 with parental consent)?
• Ready for certification?

If yes, you’re one step away from relief. Florida’s program connects certified patients to licensed local dispensaries, with products tailored to your needs—tinctures for discreet use, topicals for localized pain, or edibles for all-day support.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to MMJ Certification in Bradenton

Getting started is easier than ever—no long waits or confusing paperwork. At East County Internal Medicine, we streamline the process:

1. Schedule Your Initial Visit: You can book an in-person appointment with Dr. Kunwar. We’ll review your medical history and determine eligibility—often the same day!
2. Get Certified: If approved, receive your official recommendation. Our transparent pricing covers everything upfront (check our fee schedule for details).
3. Access Dispensaries: Use your certification to register with the state and pick up products. We guide you every step.
4. Follow-Up Care: Telehealth renewals every 210 days keep you compliant and optimized.

Pro Tip: Refer a friend for a $20 credit—spreading wellness in our community!

Why Choose Dr. Shaan Kunwar for Your Medical Cannabis Journey in Bradenton?

With over a decade in internal medicine and a passion for holistic care, Dr. Kunwar isn’t just certifying patients—he’s empowering them. Our Lakewood Ranch office is a judgment-free zone where your story matters. “Medical cannabis isn’t a cure-all, but for many, it’s a game-changer,” says Dr. Kunwar. Positive reviews pour in: “Finally, pain-free nights!” and “Compassionate and knowledgeable—life-changing.”

Would you be ready to reclaim your Bradenton lifestyle? Please feel free to contact us today for a consultation. Whether you’re in Bradenton proper or nearby Sarasota, relief is closer than you think.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Medical cannabis use complies with Florida law.

By Shaan Kunwar, DO – Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician & Qualified Ordering Physician for Medical Cannabis in Florida

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If you live in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, or Parrish, you know the struggle: chronic pain that keeps you from enjoying a walk on the Manatee River, a round of golf at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, or simply getting through the day without discomfort.You’re not alone. More than 1 in 3 adults in Manatee County report living with chronic pain—whether from arthritis, back injuries, neuropathy, or lingering effects of surgery. And for many, traditional medications fall short or come with side effects that feel worse than the pain itself.The good news? Florida’s medical cannabis program offers a safe, legal, physician-guided path to relief—and as a local doctor who’s been certifying patients since 2017, I’ve seen firsthand how it changes lives.This 2025 guide cuts through the confusion. No sales pitches. No shady clinics. Just clear, actionable steps from a Bradenton physician who understands both medicine and our community.

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Is Chronic Pain a Qualifying Condition in Florida?Yes—but with important details.Florida law recognizes “chronic nonmalignant pain” as a qualifying condition, defined as:

Pain that is caused by a qualifying condition or that originates from a qualifying condition and persists beyond the usual course of that condition or injury for more than three months.

Common Pain Conditions That Qualify in Bradenton:

Condition	Why It Qualifies	Local Relevance
Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid)	Chronic joint inflammation	Affects 60%+ of seniors in Lakewood Ranch
Neuropathy (diabetic, post-herpetic)	Nerve damage from diabetes/shingles	High diabetes rates in Manatee County
Fibromyalgia	Widespread musculoskeletal pain	Often under-treated in primary care
Failed back surgery syndrome	Persistent pain after spinal procedures	Common in active retirees
Migraines	Debilitating, recurrent	“Same kind or class” approval

Note: You don’t need a named condition like cancer or PTSD. If your pain is severe, persistent, and impacts daily function, I can often approve under “conditions of the same kind or class”—a flexible category updated in 2024 to include more pain syndromes.

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Step-by-Step: How to Get Certified in Bradenton (Same-Day Possible)No long waits. No online gimmicks. Here’s the real process at my office in East County Internal Medicine:1. Schedule Your In-Person Exam

• Call (941) 727-7771 or book online at medicalcannabisbradenton.com
• Same-day appointments often available
• Bring: Photo ID, medical records (if any), list of current meds

2. Your 30-Minute EvaluationI’ll review:

• Your pain history (onset, severity, prior treatments)
• Medical records (X-rays, MRIs, specialist notes)
• Whether benefits of cannabis outweigh risks (required by FL law)

3. Get Approved & Registered

• If you qualify, I enter your certification into the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR)
• You receive an email to create your patient ID and apply for your card ($75 fee to state)

4. Visit a Local DispensaryWithin hours, you can shop at:

• Trulieve Bradenton (5106 14th St W)
• MÜV Dispensary Lakewood Ranch (8005 Lorraine Rd)
• AYR Cannabis Parrish (coming Q1 2026)

We have no affiliation with any dispensary, so choose anyone you wish.

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Dosing & Product Tips: Start Low, Go Slow (Especially in Florida Heat)Florida’s humidity can intensify inflammation—and make you more sensitive to THC. Here’s what I recommend to my patients:For Daytime Pain Relief (Stay Functional):

Product	Starting Dose	Best For
CBD-dominant tincture (e.g., 1:20 THC:CBD)	5–10 mg CBD sublingual	Anxiety + mild pain
Low-THC capsule (2.5–5 mg)	1 capsule AM	Consistent relief without high
Topical balm (CBD or THC)	Pea-sized amount	Joints, knees, lower back

For Nighttime or Severe Pain:

Product	Starting Dose	Notes
Balanced vape pen (1:1 THC:CBD)	1–2 short puffs	Fast-acting; avoid combustion
THC edible (5 mg)	½ gummy, wait 2 hours	Long-lasting (6–8 hrs)
RSO syringe (high-THC)	Rice-grain size	Advanced users only

Pro Tip: Always start at the lowest effective dose. I’ll adjust at your 70-day follow-up.

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Local Resources & Myths BustedMyth: “You’ll get high every time.”Reality: Most of my patients use non-intoxicating CBD or low-THC products and drive, work, and play golf without impairment.Myth: “It’s addictive.”Reality: Less than 9% of medical cannabis patients develop dependence (vs. 25% for prescription opioids). I monitor usage closely.Local Support:

• Manatee County Senior Wellness Fair (Jan 2026) – Ask me about cannabis for pain
• Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Pain Support Group – Meets monthly
• Parrish YMCA Arthritis Water Class – Pair with topical cannabis for better results

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Ready for Relief? Take the Next Step Today! You don’t have to live with pain that steals your joy. Whether you’re in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, or beyond, I’m here to help—legally, safely, and with compassion . Call (941) 727-7771 to schedule your evaluation. Same-day certifications available. Most insurance not accepted, but HSA/FSA eligible.

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Dr. Shaan Kunwar, DO is a Florida-licensed, board-certified internal medicine physician and Qualified Ordering Physician. He has helped hundreds of Manatee County residents access medical cannabis since 2017. This post is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult your physician.

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Finding a Trustworthy Medical Cannabis Doctor in Bradenton, FL (34211)? Choose Shaan Kunwar, DO

Living with chronic pain, anxiety, or other qualifying conditions in Bradenton’s 34211 area can be challenging. For many, medical cannabis offers a natural, effective way to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. However, finding a reputable, non-shady doctor’s office to guide you through Florida’s medical marijuana program is critical. In a growing industry, some clinics may prioritize profits over patient care, leaving you feeling uncertain. Fortunately, Shaan Kunwar, DO, at Medical Cannabis Bradenton, is the trusted, compassionate choice for residents in 34211 seeking expert medical cannabis evaluations and care.

The Challenge: Avoiding Shady Medical Cannabis Clinics in Bradenton

Patients in Bradenton’s 34211 ZIP code, near neighborhoods like Lakewood Ranch and Palmetto, often face a confusing landscape when seeking medical cannabis. Some clinics operate with questionable practices, such as rushed consultations, hidden fees, or pushing unnecessary products. These “shady” offices can leave you feeling unsupported or skeptical about the legitimacy of your medical marijuana card.

When searching for terms like “medical cannabis doctor 34211” or “Bradenton MMJ card,” patients want a provider who offers:

• Transparency: Clear pricing and no hidden costs.
• Expertise: A licensed physician with deep knowledge of medical cannabis.
• Compassion: Personalized care that prioritizes your health and comfort.
• Compliance: Adherence to Florida’s strict medical marijuana regulations.

Shaan Kunwar, DO, stands out as a beacon of trust, delivering exactly what patients in 34211 need: a professional, patient-centered experience.

Why Shaan Kunwar, DO, Is the Trusted Choice in 34211

Dr. Shaan Kunwar, DO, is a board-certified physician with a passion for helping Bradenton residents access safe, effective medical cannabis treatments. At Medical Cannabis Bradenton, located conveniently for 34211 residents, Dr. Kunwar combines medical expertise with a commitment to personalized care. Here’s why patients trust him:

1. Expert Guidance Tailored to Your Needs

Dr. Kunwar takes the time to understand your medical history and symptoms, ensuring you qualify for Florida’s medical marijuana program. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, PTSD, or another condition, he provides evidence-based recommendations without making unverified claims. His thorough evaluations ensure you receive a legitimate medical marijuana card, compliant with Florida law.

2. Transparent and Professional Process

Unlike shady clinics, Medical Cannabis Bradenton offers clear pricing and a streamlined process. From your initial consultation to submitting your MMJ card application, Dr. Kunwar’s team guides you every step of the way. There are no surprises—just honest, upfront care.

3. Compassionate, Patient-Centered Care

Patients in 34211 appreciate Dr. Kunwar’s approachable demeanor and dedication to their well-being. He listens to your concerns, answers questions, and ensures you feel confident in your treatment plan. This level of care sets him apart from impersonal or profit-driven clinics.

4. Convenient Location for Bradenton Residents

Located in Bradenton, Medical Cannabis Bradenton is easily accessible for 34211 residents, whether you’re near Lakewood Ranch Boulevard or the Manatee River. The welcoming office environment makes your visit stress-free, and telehealth options are available for added convenience.

How to Get Started with Dr. Shaan Kunwar

Getting a medical marijuana card in Bradenton is simple with Dr. Kunwar:

1. Book a Consultation: Call or visit medicalcannabisbradenton.com to schedule an appointment.
2. Meet Dr. Kunwar: Discuss your condition and eligibility during a thorough evaluation.
3. Apply for Your MMJ Card: If approved, Dr. Kunwar’s team assists with your Florida MMJ card application.
4. Access Quality Cannabis: Visit a licensed dispensary in Bradenton to fill your prescription.

Why 34211 Patients Choose Medical Cannabis Bradenton

For residents of 34211, Dr. Shaan Kunwar, DO, offers a trustworthy alternative to questionable clinics. His commitment to compliance, expertise, and patient care ensures you receive the highest standard of service. Plus, Medical Cannabis Bradenton is optimized for local patients, with a focus on serving communities like Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, and beyond.

Take the First Step Today

Don’t let shady clinics stand in the way of your relief. If you’re in Bradenton’s 34211 area and searching for a reliable medical cannabis doctor, Shaan Kunwar, DO, is here to help. Visit medicalcannabisbradenton.com or call today to book your consultation and start your journey to better health with confidence.

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Patients report improved sleep quality with cannabis use.

If you are in the Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch area and would like to access the state medical cannabis program, call us or schedule and get access now.

If you’re a resident of Parrish, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, or Bradenton exploring medical cannabis as a treatment option, finding the right physician to guide you through Florida’s Medical Cannabis Program is key. Look no further than Dr. Shaan Kunwar, a trusted and certified expert at East County Internal Medicine. Here’s why patients from our local communities should call to schedule an appointment or book online at medicalcannabisbradenton.com for the best experience, top-tier knowledge, and unbeatable value.

Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Shaan Kunwar isn’t just any physician—he’s a board-certified internal medicine specialist with over a decade of experience, including specific certification to recommend medical marijuana in Florida. His deep understanding of chronic conditions and cannabis-based treatments ensures you’ll receive a personalized evaluation tailored to your needs. Whether you’re managing pain, anxiety, or another qualifying condition, Dr. Kunwar’s expertise means you’re in capable hands from the moment you walk through the door.

A Seamless, Affordable Process

At East County Internal Medicine, getting your medical marijuana card is straightforward and budget-friendly. Dr. Kunwar and his team streamline the process—handling everything from your initial consultation to entering you into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry—so you can focus on your health, not paperwork. Plus, with competitive pricing, you’ll access this high-quality care at an affordable rate, making it easier for residents of Parrish, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton to start their cannabis journey without breaking the bank.

Convenience for Local Patients

Located in Bradenton, Dr. Kunwar’s practice is perfectly situated for patients across the region. Whether you’re driving from Parrish’s quiet neighborhoods, Lakewood Ranch’s growing communities, or the vibrant hubs of Sarasota and Bradenton, his office is easily accessible. Can’t make it in person? Dr. Kunwar offers telehealth options for renewals, adding flexibility for busy schedules. Booking is a breeze—call (941) 727-7771 or visit medicalcannabisbradenton.com to secure your spot online.

A Patient-Centered Experience

What sets Dr. Kunwar apart is his commitment to you. Known for his attentive, friendly approach, he takes the time to listen, educate, and collaborate on your treatment plan. Patients rave about his thoroughness and the welcoming atmosphere at East County Internal Medicine. When you choose Dr. Kunwar, you’re not just getting a certification—you’re gaining a partner who’s invested in your well-being.

Unmatched Knowledge and Ongoing Support

Navigating medical cannabis can feel overwhelming, but Dr. Kunwar’s extensive knowledge makes it simple. He’ll explain how cannabis can address your specific condition, recommend the best delivery methods, and ensure you understand your options. After certification, his team provides ongoing support, including follow-ups every 210 days as required by Florida law, so you stay compliant and informed every step of the way.

Why Wait? Take the First Step Today

For residents of Parrish, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton, Dr. Shaan Kunwar offers the ideal blend of expertise, affordability, and care. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your health—call (941) 727-7771 or schedule your appointment online at medicalcannabisbradenton.com. Experience the difference of working with a local physician who’s dedicated to helping you unlock the benefits of medical cannabis safely and effectively. Your path to relief starts here!

Shaan Kunwar DO

If you’re new to the world of medical cannabis, you might have heard terms like “endocannabinoid system” thrown around and wondered what they mean. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! As a medical cannabis doctor, I’m here to break it down for you in a way that’s easy to understand. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a fascinating part of your body that plays a huge role in keeping you balanced and healthy—and it’s also why cannabis can have such powerful therapeutic effects.

What Is the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system is a complex network found in every human body (and in many animals too!). It’s made up of receptors, natural chemicals called endocannabinoids, and enzymes that help regulate it all. Think of it as your body’s built-in control center, working quietly behind the scenes to maintain harmony in everything from your mood to your appetite, sleep, pain levels, and even your immune response.

The ECS was only discovered in the 1990s when scientists were studying how cannabis affects the body. They found that cannabis works because it interacts with this system—almost like a key fitting into a lock. But here’s the cool part: your body already has its own “cannabis-like” chemicals that keep things running smoothly, even if you’ve never used cannabis before.

The Key Players in the ECS

Let’s meet the main components of the endocannabinoid system:

1. Endocannabinoids: These are compounds your body makes naturally, like anandamide (sometimes called the “bliss molecule”) and 2-AG. They’re similar to the active ingredients in cannabis, like THC and CBD, and they send signals to keep your body in balance.
2. Receptors: These are like tiny docking stations scattered throughout your body—on your brain, nerves, immune cells, and organs. The two main ones are CB1 (mostly in the brain and nervous system) and CB2 (mostly in the immune system). When endocannabinoids (or cannabis compounds) bind to these receptors, they trigger specific effects, like reducing inflammation or easing anxiety.
3. Enzymes: After the endocannabinoids do their job, enzymes break them down to keep everything from getting out of whack. It’s a finely tuned process!

What Does the ECS Do?

The endocannabinoid system is all about homeostasis—a fancy word for keeping your body in a stable, healthy state. It’s involved in regulating:

• Pain and inflammation
• Mood and stress responses
• Sleep patterns
• Appetite and digestion
• Immune function
• Memory and learning

When something throws you off balance—like chronic pain, stress, or illness—the ECS kicks into gear to help bring you back to normal. But sometimes, it needs a little extra support. That’s where medical cannabis can come in.

How Does Cannabis Fit In?

Cannabis contains compounds called phytocannabinoids—like THC and CBD—that mimic or support your body’s own endocannabinoids. For example:

• THC (the part of cannabis that can make you feel “high”) binds directly to CB1 receptors, which can help with pain relief, relaxation, or appetite stimulation.
• CBD doesn’t bind directly but influences the ECS in other ways, like reducing inflammation or calming anxiety without the psychoactive effects.

When your ECS isn’t functioning at its best (sometimes called “endocannabinoid deficiency”), cannabis can give it a boost. This is why patients with conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, or anxiety often find relief with medical cannabis—it’s working with a system your body already has!

Why This Matters to You

As a patient, understanding the endocannabinoid system can help you see why medical cannabis isn’t just a random treatment—it’s a tool that works with your biology. Everyone’s ECS is unique, so finding the right cannabis treatment is a personalized journey. That’s where I come in as your doctor: to guide you toward the options that best support your health and well-being.

Whether you’re dealing with a specific condition or just curious about how cannabis might help, the endocannabinoid system is the foundation of it all. It’s proof that your body is already wired for balance—and sometimes, a little plant medicine can go a long way in helping it along.

Ready to learn more? Let’s talk about how medical cannabis might fit into your life. Feel free to reach out with questions or to schedule a consultation—I’m here to help you navigate this natural path to wellness!