The use of marijuana should be decriminalized for medical purposes because it would highly benefit ailing patients. When …show more content…
When a patient acquires HIV their immune system begins to lessen which causes a reduction in appetite that leads to malnutrition. Moreover, marijuana can ease symptoms such as “muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis and nausea from cancer chemotherapy” (par. 11 line 1-2). Chemotherapy is known to have a range of side effects and nausea is one of many. Therefore, marijuana can alleviate nausea and promote an appetite. This article explains the various ways of how marijuana could be used to ease certain symptoms that are caused these illnesses.
Although marijuana demonstrates substantial benefits for bedridden patients, opponents claim it should not be legalized due to its detrimental side effects. According to British and New Zealand, “smoking pot increases the risk of lung cancer [by] 8%” (Shapiro). Aside from lung cancer, constant use of marijuana irritates the lungs which can cause excessive phlegm and cough. This also increases the risk of acquiring bronchitis and other chest illnesses. Marijuana is also perceived as a highly addictive, gateway drug. According to the Diagnostic and …show more content…
Therefore, a person must be “registered and posses an identification card, which proves to law enforcement that they are legally eligible” (Jack). This limits the amount of potential pot users, making it complex for anyone to obtain marijuana. This also prevents reckless teenagers from easily acquiring it and risking the chance of becoming addicted. It will not be akin to over-the-counter medicine, not anyone can walk into the shop and purchase it. In addition, one concern opponents mention is the safety of the drug, however, it is perceived as one of the safest compared to others (Jack). Having been used for medicinal purposes for over decades merely reinforces the idea that is harmless. However, akin to any other medicine it has to be taken responsibly and in