Questions about medical marijuana

What is “medical” marijuana? Has it been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for specific treatments? Have trials been conducted to understand side effects and dangers from long-term usage as with other medicines? How is it different from regular marijuana, i.e., will it also sap ambition, interest in school and other worthwhile pursuits? How do the risks of prescription “medical” marijuana compare with the risks of opioids?

Patrick Ray, Blanchard