Rx pot products aren't cure-alls

The term “medical marijuana” is questionable. Good medical care follows a logical sequence of diagnosis and treatment. First a likely diagnosis is determined, then the patient's overall health is considered. Next the available treatment options, their benefits and potential complications are reviewed. Sound medical options and patient preferences are then considered before therapy is started. Dr. Ervin Yen and others attempted to set reasonable guidelines for the use of “medical marijuana” that followed known medical indications based on limited research, clinical studies and experience. Instead, our law requires no established medical criteria, only a recommendation from a physician who is paid for the approval. Patients seek a medical marijuana card, a “marijuana doctor” is consulted and the card usually is issued. Fortunately, frontal lobotomy isn't so easily available; although, based on recent political decisions, one might wonder. “Medical” treatment is approved by vote rather than by physician recommendations, and open carry without training or a permit is legislated over the objections of experienced lawmen.

More than two centuries ago, Voltaire observed that “common sense is not so common.” Heretofore I considered it plentiful in our state. Please wake up, Oklahomans. CBD oil and marijuana products are not the cure-alls claimed by advertisers and paid shills. Except for a few documented medical indications, more likely it is the most recent snake oil foisted on the public. Based on side effects, frequent unpredictable dosage and potential complications of marijuana with THC, snake oil probably was safer.

Ray Smith, M.D. Oklahoma City