Pubdate: Tue, 21 Apr 1998 Source: New York Times (NY) Contact: http://www.nytimes.com/ Author: Herb Kleber FIGHTING THE DRUG WAR To the Editor: The news from the drug front discussed by A. M. Rosenthal (column, April 14) presents a mixed picture. Scientific data about the short- and long-term effects on the brain of drugs like cocaine and marijuana are increasing, as is our ability to treat addicts. We continue to learn more about the commonality of the way these drugs act and how they hijack the brain, eroding, but not erasing, the ability to control their use. We are improving our medications and our behavioral interventions. Yet at the same time millions of dollars are poured into the fray by legalizers and their sympathizers -- who flood newspapers with letters whenever an anti-legalization view like Mr. Rosenthal's appears, helping cloud the issues of drug glamorization and the dramatic rise in adolescent drug use. HERBERT D. KLEBER , M.D. Medical Director, National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse New York, April 17, 1998