Pubdate:  Sat, 29 May 1999
Source: San Antonio Express-News (TX)
Copyright: 1999 San Antonio Express-News
Contact:  http://www.expressnews.com/
Forum: http://data.express-news.net:2080/eshare/server?action4

MEDICAL RESEARCH ON MARIJUANA RIGHT

The Clinton administration has eased restrictions on obtaining marijuana
for medical research.

The decision was sound and should allow scientists to gain important
knowledge about the drug. Enough evidence about the positive medicinal
effects of the drug exists to justify more scientific examination.

In the past, extensive study has been deterred by the emotional baggage
surrounding the illegal, recreational use of marijuana.

Despite previous federal reluctance to explore medical uses of marijuana, a
1996 California initiative allowed the medical use of the drug if
prescribed by doctors.

But federal authorities continued to threaten to arrest doctors who helped
patients obtain marijuana.

More recently, reports the Associated Press, studies by the National
Academy of Sciences and the National Institutes of Health also found
evidence marijuana, or its active ingredients, might have some medical uses.

The drug long has been reported to help glaucoma patients and is credited
with relieving nausea for cancer and AIDS patients.

Supported by the White House Office of National Drug Policy, the new
guidelines will allow scientists easier access to research-grade marijuana
grown on government lands, according to the AP.

The new rules will help ensure the consistency, purity and quality of the
marijuana used in research.

Despite the plant's role in the illegal drug trade across the Americas, the
medical research is worthwhile.

Scientists can examine the benefits and dangers of the substance in an
objective fashion.

Only after thorough studies are completed will Americans really know
whether marijuana has any legitimate use.
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