The use and abuse of cannabis

THE use of cannabis as a recreational drug is widespread and crosses social
barriers. Many people are now arguing for its decriminalisation, but this is
premature. Much more research must be done in this area before such a step
can be seriously contemplated. There is still a fine line between use and
abuse and anecdotal evidence regarding its safety is far from conclusive.

However, there is a stronger case for looking at the case of decriminalising
the drug for medicinal purposes. In particular, the British Medical
Association has today identified a property of cannabis cannabinoids
which may have a potential therapeutic effect.

As yet the evidence is insubstantial but, as the BMA revealed yesterday,
there are priority conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord
injury, where patients' pain possibly could be relieved by taking
cannabinoids.

The BMA has correctly asked that while clinical trials and evaluations take
place, the police and other prosecuting authorities take a lenient view of
those using the banned substance for research purposes. The results of these
tests will be eagerly awaited and those patients who are suffering now
should contact Dr Roger Pertwee at Aberdeen University to take part in his
study.

The BMA would like to see an immediate change in the law to facilitate this,
arguing that current regulations hamper research. This is unfortunate but
with sympathetic cooperation from all parties amending the current
legislation should be unnecessary. Clearly, some people suffering from
debilitating illnesses have found using cannabis alleviates their pain. For
them, procuring an illegal drug is iniquitous, branding them as criminals.
The quicker a means can be found of prescribing it to the needy without it
getting into the wrong hands is desirable. A central register of patients
being prescribed cannabinoids could help ensure this.

But this is not the time for precipitous action. If the BMA's study shows
that cannabinoids can benefit a diverse range of medical conditions,
including cancer sufferers, then ways must be found to control their use.
That, though, is for the future. As for the decriminalising of cannabis
entirely, there is, as we have said previously, an urgent need for a Royal
Commission to look into recreational drug use. Then, and only then, should a
change in the present law be considered.