(Mathius 1997) It is an approved treatment for the nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Since the synthetic THC is in capsule form, it is hard to administer to patients that are nauseated. (Glick 1998) Marijuana also has antispasmodic properties. If administered to epilepsy patients, it has the ability to reduce the severity and frequency of the seizures. (Glick 1998) The fourth property is known on the streets as "the munchies." THC's appetite enhancing properties could help dramatically if prescribed to AIDS patients who are suffering from wasting syndrome. (Glick 1998) It is also used to simulate the appetite of AIDS patients in order to counteract the wasting syndrome. (Mathius 1997) Mathius also stated that marijuana is an effective treatment for pain relief in glaucoma patients. (1997) Research has shown that marijuana has the ability to lower intraocular pressure. (Glick 1998) This would be a great source of relief for those suffering from glaucoma to people who are suffering from glaucoma.
Some people are concerned about the side effects of marijuana. There are commercials, TV documentaries, school programs and classes, that all teach the bad side effects of marijuana if it is used recreationally. All medicinal drugs on the market today have their own respective side effects, so it seems quite unordinary that a drug would not have them. Proper warnings are used, and people use the medicine responsibly. One such side effect of marijuana is perceptual changes. (Glick 1998) There is a simple solution to this problem, a label saying: Do not operate heavy machinery. A similar label is seen on common cold treatments such as Sudafed. Another side effect that raises concern could be the dependence forming effects. (Glick 1998) This is a possibility for all medication, whether it is prescribed, over-the-counter, or illegal. Glick cautions that "use by people with underlying substance abuse issues [is] unwise.
There are stores set up so that people with the right kind of permission card and perscription can get as much as a pound out at a time, for personal use only. ... There will always be an uphill battle for pot smokers, to be understood and to be accepted by those who do not necessarily get what is so great to them. ...
