With all the political hubbub and legal strife over medical marijuana, as one who tried to be an educated voter, I found myself asking: “Why don’t we just make a synthetic version of THC (the active natural substance in marijuana) and disburse it in pill form?” The simple answer to that question was, as I found out – we already have.
Synthetic THC has been available for decades. Dronabinol (the man-made form of THC) is approved by both the United States Food and Drug Administration and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and is marketed under the brand name of Marinol.
Proponents of medical marijuana assert that chemotherapy patients must be granted legal access to marijuana to curb their severe nausea and vomiting. Yet, according to WebMD, Marinol is not only effective in reducing severe nausea and vomiting, but it is “also used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in patients infected with HIV (the virus that causes AIDS).” See http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8774-dronabinol+oral.aspx.
If a THC pill is already available by prescription, why then has there been such a massive political effort to legalize marijuana cigarettes? After all, Morphine is an accepted medical drug, but legalized opium smoking was not on last year’s ballot. This question becomes even more perplexing when one understands that:
There are no FDA-approved medications that are smoked. For one thing, smoking is generally a poor way to deliver medicine. It is difficult to administer safe, regulated dosages of medicines in smoked form. Secondly, the harmful chemicals and carcinogens that are byproducts of smoking create entirely new health problems. There are four times the level of tar in a marijuana cigarette, for example, than in a tobacco cigarette.
Since Marinol has been around for decades, I am dumbfounded as to why medical marijuana has caused our state (and nation) so much political grief. In a struggling economy, the federal and state governments certainly have better things to do with our taxes than sue each other over whether or not the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution includes marijuana cigarettes. There must be some hidden rationale or agenda that I am missing, because it is clear that the proponents of legalizing marijuana cigarettes are not focused solely on the medical benefits of THC.
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Attorney Profile: Brian D. Strong, Criminial Defense Attorney
Understanding the Legal Landscape of Medical Marijuana
The legal status of medical marijuana varies significantly across different states, and understanding this landscape is crucial for patients and practitioners alike. In Arizona, medical marijuana is legal for qualified patients, allowing them to access cannabis for therapeutic purposes. However, the complexities of state laws and federal regulations can create confusion, making it essential for individuals to stay informed about their rights and responsibilities.
For example, while Arizona has established a medical marijuana program, federal law still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance. This dichotomy can lead to legal challenges for patients and healthcare providers. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney, like Brian Strong, can help navigate these complexities and ensure compliance with both state and federal laws.
The Role of Marinol in Medical Treatment
Marinol, the synthetic form of THC, plays a significant role in medical treatment for various conditions. It is commonly prescribed to alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and to stimulate appetite in patients with HIV/AIDS. Understanding how Marinol differs from natural marijuana can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
While Marinol offers a legal alternative for patients who may not have access to medical marijuana, it is important to recognize its limitations. For instance, the onset of action for Marinol can be delayed compared to smoking marijuana, which may affect its efficacy for some patients. Discussing these differences with a healthcare provider can help ensure the best therapeutic outcomes.
Common Misconceptions About Marijuana and Marinol
There are several misconceptions surrounding the use of marijuana and Marinol that can impact patient choices. One common myth is that synthetic THC is always a safer alternative to natural marijuana. However, while Marinol is regulated and prescribed, it may not provide the same therapeutic benefits as the whole cannabis plant, which contains a wider array of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Additionally, some individuals believe that using Marinol eliminates the legal risks associated with marijuana use. While it is true that Marinol is legal and prescribed by doctors, patients must still be aware of the potential side effects and interactions with other medications. A thorough discussion with a healthcare professional can clarify these misconceptions and guide patients toward the best treatment plan.
Why Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney for Marijuana-Related Issues?
When facing legal issues related to marijuana, whether it involves possession, distribution, or medical use, having a skilled criminal defense attorney is essential. An attorney with expertise in marijuana laws can provide invaluable guidance and representation, helping clients navigate the intricate legal landscape surrounding cannabis use.
For instance, if a patient is charged with a marijuana-related offense, a knowledgeable attorney like Brian Strong can advocate for their rights, exploring defenses based on medical necessity or compliance with state laws. This representation is crucial in protecting clients from potential legal repercussions and ensuring their voices are heard in court.
