MMJ: Easy Meds

A criticism of legalized medical marijuana is that medical cards are easy to obtain (i.e. buy) and that a large proportion of card holders are basically recreational users. What is your view/experience? – Waiting for Legal

Here is my view: SO WHAT? Marijuana should be legal anyway. If going to the doctor and claiming you use cannabis to treat your pretendinitis will keep you out of jail and away from the criminal justice system, do it. Going to jail is a threat to your health and well-being.

Yes, the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 was intended to assist people with serious diseases (cancer, HIV, arthritis, etc.) However, cannabis has been proven to be effective for a variety of health issues, and it is a natural stress reliever. Stress will kill you in a hurry, and going to jail will definitely increase your stress levels, so getting a medical cannabis recommendation is a preventative health measure. Boom. Don’t wait for legalization, because California may never get it right.

Several years ago I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I found that marijuana often helps ease the anxiety and racing thoughts associated with manic episodes. Yet, most evaluators won’t approve medical marijuana use for people suffering from BPD. I’m wondering, is that because there hasn’t been sufficient research on the matter, or are there dangers associated with it? – Sleepless in Salinas

You are correct. There hasn’t been sufficient research. Dr. Lester Grinspoon published a study a few years ago showing that cannabis may help, but he also says more study is needed. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration makes it difficult for American scientists (Israel is leading the world in cannabis research) to study the medicinal effects of marijuana, although they announced they are easing the rules for research on CBD, which is a non-psychoactive (it won’t get you high) component of the cannabis plant.

Still, CBD has been shown to be an effective anti-anxiety med, so maybe the scientists will find a way to help you with your condition. There is plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting that cannabis can help people with BPD, but I would suggest you find a doctor or therapist that is a little more open-minded about cannabis and talk to them before you go out and start smoking weed all the time.