Addiction specter

The Philippine Medical Association has entered the medical marijuana debate as a staunch opponent of any new legislation that would supplant an already existing protocol on the doctorsupervised use of cannabis sativa preparations, said to be the most abused narcotic in the country.

Ahead of last week’s House of Representatives deliberation on several bills seeking to regulate the use of medical cannabis, the PMA issued a statement acknowledging the potential benefits of cannabis while prioritizing patient safety and guarding against substance abuse.

The PMA anchored its position on a commitment to support the use of Food and Drug Administration-approved medical cannabis preparations for specific health conditions, emphasizing that existing regulations already allow compassionate access.

Its apprehension stems not from an inherent objection to the medical use of cannabis, but from the unintended consequences of its unauthorized use, especially by the youth.

The specter of Thailand’s experience, where initial marijuana legalization for medical purposes morphed into widespread recreational use, serves as a potent reminder. The Philippines, looking at the experiences of other countries that have legalized cannabis, should tread carefully so as not to replicate such missteps.

Setting a distinction between medical and recreational use should be conflated with the risks of undermining the legitimate medical use of marijuana and jeopardizing public health.

Rigorous research and robust regulations must go hand in hand, backed by evidence-based decisions and clinical trials, to fully understand the risks and benefits of the substance.

In wanting to pass new legislation that would specifically

“With

the DDB, the MCO would ensure strict control over access and distribution to qualified patients and licensed medical facilities.