ASAM Voices Opinion on Medical Marijuana
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) confirmed its opinion that marijuana should not be used for medical purposes. They believe that currently there isn’t sufficient evidence that it is beneficial to use medical marijuana. In addition, the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) also issued a statement saying that they are opposed to the use of medical marijuana until more research is done.
The ASAM states, “Marijuana is a mood altering drug capable of producing dependence as well as serious negative mental, emotional, behavioral and physical consequences.”
The NAADAC states, “Marijuana should be subject to the same research, consideration, and study as any other potential medication.” In addition, the ASAM feels that they cannot support the use of medical marijuana until sufficient research is done to deem the drug medically necessary.
The use of Medical marijuana has been a debate that has gone on for years. Some states such as California want marijuana to be regulated and taxed similar to alcohol. Until more research is done it will not be known if marijuana is truly beneficial or if it is merely a dangerous gateway drug.
Currently the decision on whether or not a state is going to allow the use of medical marijuana is done through the voting process by the citizens of that particular state. Marijuana needs to be treated like any other drug that is going to be used for medical purposes. All of the pros and cons of the drug need to be studied extensively.