preview

Use of Marijuana for Medical Purposes: A Controversial Topic

Decent Essays

Introduction Although marijuana continues to be classified federally as an illegal narcotic, several states have passed laws to allow the use of cannabis (marijuana) as a medicine. "Dozens of peer-reviewed studies," combined with the support of various medical organizations, have slowly paved the way for the use of marijuana to treat illnesses and medical conditions ("Should Marijuana Be a Medical Option?"). The illnesses and medical conditions that have been explored most in research include anorexia, glaucoma, epilepsy, and nausea. In addition to the support of the scientific and medical communities, some government reports also substantiate the claim that marijuana should cease to be stigmatized as a drug ("Should Marijuana Be a Medical Option?"). Marijuana has a long history of use in more than one culture around the world, from Asia to the Americas. It is a natural plant substance, albeit one that contains psychoactive substances that cause a "high." Thus, the use of marijuana for medical purposes remains a controversial topic. People's Thoughts: Pros and Cons Both sides of the argument of medical marijuana make some valid points. For example, "opponents of medical marijuana argue that it is too dangerous to use, lacks FDA-approval, and that various legal drugs make marijuana use unnecessary," ("Should Marijuana Be a Medical Option?"). There are, however, more reasonable and intelligent arguments in favor of the use of marijuana for medical purposes. The argument

Get Access