Spring Break
Let's dance with Mary Jane
Medicinal marijuana really does kill the pain
Theresa Schneider
Issue date: 12/13/07 Section: Editorial/Opinion
Studies also suggest that marijuana cigarettes are significantly less addictive than narcotics, alcohol, tobacco and even caffeine. Marijuana use proves to be much less addicting than many substances, some of which are not controlled.
Although physicians may not legally prescribe marijuana to patients, they can recommend marijuana's use to treat symptoms. On Sept. 7, 2000, a U.S. District Court judge ruled in Conant v. McCaffery that federal authorities may not sanction doctors who recommend marijuana to patients.
I am one of those patients.
As someone who suffers from a chronic gastrointestinal disorder, I have seen doctors who have actually suggested I consider smoking pot to alleviate some of my symptoms. But upon this kind of recommendation, I face a tough situation. I can break the law and buy and smoke weed to cope with symptoms, I can try medications or I can chose not to treat my uncomfortable symptoms at all.
Yes, there are many anti-nausea medications available too, but some, such as prescription based Reglan, can have side effects worse than their intended good. Some of the mild side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, headaches and confusion. Other side effects include insomnia, tachycardia (irregular heart rhythm) and mental depression with intentions of suicide. That's a large risk to take for anti-nausea medication. I would know - I've experienced some of those side effects. I'd rather not treat my symptoms.
Medicinal marijuana is safer than many available substances including prescriptions and it has established medicinal benefits. There is no reason why patients who could benefit from the drug should not have access to it.
Although physicians may not legally prescribe marijuana to patients, they can recommend marijuana's use to treat symptoms. On Sept. 7, 2000, a U.S. District Court judge ruled in Conant v. McCaffery that federal authorities may not sanction doctors who recommend marijuana to patients.
I am one of those patients.
As someone who suffers from a chronic gastrointestinal disorder, I have seen doctors who have actually suggested I consider smoking pot to alleviate some of my symptoms. But upon this kind of recommendation, I face a tough situation. I can break the law and buy and smoke weed to cope with symptoms, I can try medications or I can chose not to treat my uncomfortable symptoms at all.
Yes, there are many anti-nausea medications available too, but some, such as prescription based Reglan, can have side effects worse than their intended good. Some of the mild side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, headaches and confusion. Other side effects include insomnia, tachycardia (irregular heart rhythm) and mental depression with intentions of suicide. That's a large risk to take for anti-nausea medication. I would know - I've experienced some of those side effects. I'd rather not treat my symptoms.
Medicinal marijuana is safer than many available substances including prescriptions and it has established medicinal benefits. There is no reason why patients who could benefit from the drug should not have access to it.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
alumni jim
posted 12/13/07 @ 7:58 AM CST
Theresa asks,
"Why are fewer restrictions placed on more harmful substances, such as tobacco and alcohol?"
Most likely Theresa, it is because our government makes a boatload of tax revenue off these products and our legislators are chickens with their head cut off who will not do the right thing- they are led by money and re-election only. (Continued…)
Voice of America
posted 12/13/07 @ 8:07 AM CST
I feel your pain. Thank you for telling the world your situation. It would be nice to allow people who suffer from ailments that "Medical Marijuana" could provide relief be able to have legal access to without guilt. (Continued…)
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