Australia: Medical Use of Cannabis Trial Reopens Drug Debate

[Medical Marijuana]

AT the same time as armed police smashed marijuana dens in Blair Athol, government workers in Macquarie St were preparing a document to allow doctors to prescribe cannabis-based drugs.

Ironically, the drug the State Government and the public want off our streets also contains chemicals which could provide pain relief to thousands of the chronically ill.

The drug also contains properties that could pave the way for a viable textile industry.

The Iemma Government prides itself on the tough stance it has taken against street drugs.

But while the Government denies it supports the decriminalisation of cannabis, the public has been left confused over its position with the debate over the controversial use of cannabis for medicinal purposes being re-ignited. Health Minister Reba Meagher announced yesterday she was planning to allow a trial of a cannabis-based drug, pending approval by the Commonwealth.

Support for cannabis-based medicine extends to the UK and US where a trial of an oral spray, Sativex, has been successful. Researchers have found Sativex reduces pain in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis, cancer and AIDS.

Manufacturers extract tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoids, the high-inducing compounds people smoke for recreation. They turn the chemicals into a compound without the psychoactive effect.

AIDS and cancer patients who suffer loss of appetite or extreme nausea are said to benefit from THC, which not only reduces pain but in some cases reduces nausea and stimulates appetite.

Overseas research has shown the use of cannabinoids to treat MS, which causes tremors and muscle spasms, has mixed results.

Cannabis-based drugs can ease muscle pain and some doctors believe their effects outweigh long-term adverse side-effects.

The medical use of cannabis was squashed by former prime minister John Howard. But with a new federal government, the State Government is hoping it can have the drug approved for a trial.

The NSW Greens, who have long supported cannabis being used for medicinal purposes, believe the Government is sending a mixed message.

"Now the Premier has reversed his previous ban on medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp, he needs to address cannabis use, which has increased dramatically in the 12 years of the Labor Government," Greens spokeswoman Lee Rhiannon said.

"He should now initiate a rational public debate on drug use."

Source: Advertiser, The (Australia)
Copyright: 2008 Advertiser Newspapers Ltd
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