Pubdate: Sun, 02 Nov 2014
Source: Daytona Beach News-Journal (FL)
Copyright: 2014 News-Journal Corporation
Contact:  http://www.news-journalonline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/700
Note: Gives priority to local writers
Author: Kenneth J. Moffa

THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR POT USE

Recently, I read in The News-Journal that attorney John Morgan, along
with lobbyist Benjamin Pollara, met with The News-Journal's editorial
board. While they advocate the passage of Amendment 2 legalizing
medical marijuana, I wonder if Morgan accepts the responsibility for
the outcomes of its use ?

For his information (and I assume he knows this), marijuana can cause
dizziness, drowsiness and impaired judgment. Alcohol increases these
effects. So too some drugs like anti-depressants, antihistamines, pain
relievers and muscle relaxants. Along with these side effects, there
is distorted perception, impaired coordination and concentration,
making driving difficult and dangerous.

Clinically, THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, is stored in fat
cells, maybe for several months, and is released slowly back into the
bloodstream. It does suppress the effects of chemotherapy agents by
controlling the vomiting reflex, so I do sympathize with patients who
can benefit by this. But where are prescription medications which
contain the same active ingredients?

Let's address the vomiting reflex while using marijuana. When
indulging alcohol (something youths and others do), if excessive
amounts of alcohol are consumed, vomiting will not occur and alcohol
levels could become toxic and cause death due to respiratory failure.

Therefore I ask Morgan if he will accept the responsibility of
teenagers killed while driving under the influence, a child killed in
an auto accident, even someone in my family or his suffering from such
a tragedy. Again I ask: Will he accept the responsibility?

Kenneth J. Moffa

Palm Coast

Moffa is a registered pharmacist.
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MAP posted-by: Matt