THE YEAR IN MEDICINE

The entry on marijuana stated "research into the analgesic and
anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis bolsters the case for medicinal
use of marijuana." The studies cited, however, involved the use of
cannabis extracts and synthetic marijuana chemicals, not smoking pot,
as some readers might surmise. The research suggests that there are
excellent ways to utilize the active ingredients in marijuana without
legalizing another lung-polluting substance. The time has come for the
prescription use of cannabis derivatives.

Terry K. Kaiser

San Diego