Pubdate: Thu, 29 Aug 2002
Source: NOW Magazine (Canada)
Copyright: 2002 NOW Communications Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nowtoronto.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/282
Author: Adam Wiggins
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n1566/a06.html

PHARMAS FEAR POT

I feel deeply for Matthew A. Mernagh and all the members of the Toronto 
Compassion Centre who will no longer have access to their medicine (Reefer 
Sadness, NOW, August 22-28).

The article brings up a very interesting point: the cost of medical 
cannabis versus commercial drugs with similar effects. Pharmaceutical 
companies are no doubt fighting against medical cannabis. An effective 
painkiller that people can grow themselves is fierce competition for their 
products. But I, for one, am more concerned that sufferers of debilitating 
diseases can get an effective low-cost medication than I am about 
protecting the pocketbooks of drug manufacturers.

ADAM WIGGINS

Pasadena, CA
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MAP posted-by: Tom