Millions of Americans take prescription drugs to treat a plethora of illnesses and symptoms, but not all drugs are created equal. The question of whether or not to consider marijuana a viable medical treatment remains a hot button issue. In states like California, medical marijuana clubs have flourished despite their federal illegality. Should the federal government allow states to make their own decisions, or is marijuana nothing more than a dangerous narcotic?
The federal government ignores not only the data used but also the conclusions reached by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report. In order to maintain its outmoded position on medical cannabis, the federal government disingenuously uses the IOM report and its concern for smoked cannabis use as a means to obstruct the advancement of medical cannabis in general.
The IOM report contains information that contradicts assertions made by the federal government. For instance, while focusing on one of the report's conclusions, that "smoked marijuana is a crude drug delivery system that exposes patients to a significant number of harmful substances," the federal government ignores the three recommendations that call for further research to sufficiently assess the medical efficacy of cannabis. Instead, the federal government has overtly obstructed such research.
In its zeal to oppose research and the advancement of smoked cannabis for therapeutic use, the federal government also ignored a statement made by Principal Investigator Dr. John Benson at a news conference highlighting the report's release in 1999: "We concluded that there are some limited circumstances in which we recommend smoking marijuana for medical uses."
Finally, in the few cases where research on smoked marijuana has been approved (Abrams, 2007; Haney, 2007; and Wilsey, 2008), studies have demonstrated that cannabis was effective in reducing neuropathy pain and stimulating appetite. The federal government continues to ignore these studies as well.
Next Argument
6
7
6
6
6
6
1
0
0
0
0
Biweekly updates on new debates and experts
Please check your email to confirm your subscription.
© 2008 Opposing Views, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Opposing Views, Inc. is not responsible for the content posted on this website. Please view full disclaimer under Terms
Expert Verified
