health lab by dr. joel
THE 411
on 420
This summer, for the first time, Californians were able to get ID cards to use other treatments before prescribing marijuana, this is not necessary. The Medical
marijuana for medical purposes. So it seems like a good time to answers some Board of California points out that prescriptions need only be based on the medical
frequently asked questions medical marijuana, or cannabis. Questions like: literature, trials, experience or patient reports. In short, if it helps, it’s probably Okay.
Dude, what the hell—wasn’t marijuana legalized in California a long time I think I have a real indication. Does it work? Honestly, doctors still argue
ago? Sort of. Proposition 215, The Compassionate Use Act of 1996, made Califor- about this. The research is fairly clear that your body has molecules, called
nians using marijuana for medical purposes exempt from criminal penalties. It endocannabanoid receptors, that recognize components of marijuana. It’s less
did NOT make marijuana legal, strictly speaking. San Diego County sued the state, clear what they do. My experience makes me a believer in using marijuana for
saying it couldn’t go against federal laws banning marijuana. The County lost in anorexia, nausea and pain in chronic diseases like AIDS and cancer. I’m less sold
May, when the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal of a decision siding on prescribing it for healthy 25-year-olds who can down a pizza, but light up for
with the state. San Diego was forced to implement a medical marijuana program, “intermittent nausea.” In the end, it’s up to you and your doctor.
and the first ID cards were issued in July. Swe-e-et! But what’s this about federal laws Awwwwesome! What’s the catch? Like all medications, marijuana has risks.
banning marijuana? U.S. laws still consider marijuana a “Schedule 1” controlled Some reports suggest marijuana (or its withdrawal) can cause many of the prob-
substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no legitimate medical use. lems it helps, including headaches, insomnia and nausea. It can also have more
So the FBI and DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) could theoretically arrest specific chemical effects, such as – LISTEN UP BOYZ – decreased testosterone and
you for toking up with a prescription. Attorney General Eric Holder has sort of said gynecomastia – that’s medical jibberish for enlarged breast tissue, or man-boobs.
(but not promised) he won’t prosecute prescribers, distributors or users of medi- Your lungs rarely like smoke, and marijuana is no exception. Research suggests
cal marijuana unless they are breaking both state and federal law. But that could links to lung cancer, and it won’t help your asthma. Finally, many believe that
change. marijuana is either physically or psychologically addictive.
So, Dr. Joel, can you prescribe me some weed? Believe me, this question is Now I’m confused, and I don’t even have the stuff yet. Using medical mari-
asked VERY frequently. I won’t, because I’m not your doctor. Your primary physician, juana requires weighing the risks and benefits. In addition to the medical risks, it’s
or a consulting specialist, should prescribe marijuana. While I don’t think anyone a legal mess. (Please remember I’m a doctor, not a lawyer). Marijuana is illegal—
should “doctor shop” for a marijuana-friendly doctor, it’s true that some doctors it’s just that the state can’t prosecute you if you have a legitimate medical need,
are uncomfortable with marijuana. Numerous groups, like the California National and the Feds suggest they won’t. You can still be stopped at airports, you can’t
Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (CANORML, www.canorml.org), necessarily take it to other states and your boss may still be able to fire you for a
help patients find a physician comfortable prescribing medical marijuana. (+) drug test. You may be able to grow a certain amount, but you can’t distribute
What is a legitimate medical use of medical marijuana? Proposition 215 lists it. And, of course, there’s weight gain from “the munchies.” I’m a little suspicious of
a few specific diseases, but adds “any other illness for which marijuana provides some “indications,” but I DO believe that some patients benefit greatly from medi-
relief.” According to the DEA, oddly quoting CANORML, the most common uses cal marijuana, and are entitled to get it. If you think you’re one of them, talk to your
of medical marijuana in California are: Chronic Pain (40 percent), AIDS-Related doctor and be your own advocate. If you just need it to enjoy 3-D movies more, try
(22 percent) and Mood Disorders (15 percent). While many doctors try to exhaust something else so you don’t get arrested. As always, be healthy.
56 RAGE monthly | november 2009
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