According to Machado et al., "marijuana has been used throughout human history for many purposes" (432). Cannabis is not a foreign substance to the human population, so we should not fear it's medical contributions. Marijuana has been proven to reduce chronic pain in terminally ill individuals (Ault 1077). Patients who undergo chemotherapy treatment suffer from nausea and pain. Machado et al. say that, "up until now, two medications Marinol (dronabinol delta-9-THC) and cesamet (nabilone) have been approved to be prescribed for nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy [treatment]" (432). Without these medications, patients suffer from chronic nausea, vomiting, anorexia, malnutrition, and substantial weight loss. Medications, e.g., Marinol
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In addition, Policymakers are also concerned with the public’s health. Marijuana is believed to have negative effects on individuals, as all drugs do, and they are taking measures to avoid addiction. Hickenlooper states, “We recognize that some people struggle with dependency on multiple substances; as a result, we have an opportunity to proactively direct funding to prevention-focused interventions, which will allow us to avoid costs related to the effects in the long run” (246). Officials recognize the dangers of legalizing marijuana; it poses as a threat to society. However, alcohol and tobacco are harmful as well, and that has not stopped production of those substances. Pacula et al. state, “Similar to alcohol, most adults who use marijuana continue to perform their expected social roles and do not exhibit serious problems” (1021). Research must still be enacted to develop an inclusive explanation of the effects of marijuana; however, no serious issues have arisen after multiple years of human consumption. The prohibitionist approach on marijuana is best described as a “moral panic” (Amir 575). Also, officials are keeping a close watch on the people that they distribute licenses to. Licenses allow the government to keep track of the licensees, and they will be able to track the illegal underground marijuana trade easier. This will reduce the amount of low class drug dealers which will make under age access to marijuana less feasible. Officials have regulations and guidelines for marijuana distribution in order to protect the
In addition, Policymakers are also concerned with the public’s health. Marijuana is believed to have negative effects on individuals, as all drugs do, and they are taking measures to avoid addiction. Hickenlooper states, “We recognize that some people struggle with dependency on multiple substances; as a result, we have an opportunity to proactively direct funding to prevention-focused interventions, which will allow us to avoid costs related to the effects in the long run” (246). Officials recognize the dangers of legalizing marijuana; it poses as a threat to society. However, alcohol and tobacco are harmful as well, and that has not stopped production of those substances. Pacula et al. state, “Similar to alcohol, most adults who use marijuana continue to perform their expected social roles and do not exhibit serious problems” (1021). Research must still be enacted to develop an inclusive explanation of the effects of marijuana; however, no serious issues have arisen after multiple years of human consumption. The prohibitionist approach on marijuana is best described as a “moral panic” (Amir 575). Also, officials are keeping a close watch on the people that they distribute licenses to. Licenses allow the government to keep track of the licensees, and they will be able to track the illegal underground marijuana trade easier. This will reduce the amount of low class drug dealers which will make under age access to marijuana less feasible. Officials have regulations and guidelines for marijuana distribution in order to protect the