See attached article.  To me, this is encouraging, and shows at least a logical and scientific approach to medical cannabis use.  I think the resource is still largely untapped, because the benefits may extend to vast areas of medicine.  I do a lot of pain management in my Neurologic practice, and I am particularly interested in cannibinoids as "adjuvant analgesics" (the term referring to the large body of medications that are non-opioid, for pain relief).  It would be great if we could get some controlled trials for chronic neuropathic pain and MS.  There is also documented, scientific evidence that certain of the cannibinoids (and there are several in the cannabis plant, not just THC), are potential stroke preventing/protecting agents.    I am again encouraged that this is a logical step in the right direction, and hope that critics will not adopt a hysterical protest that this is the same thing as "Marijuana Legalization", because it isn't.   Though, I think in time (in the very near future), Canada will have decriminalization for person use/possession.   This country however, will likely continue the WAR, if the cost/expenses of the WAR can be channeled back into the economy or generate revenue for the government.  I'm not sure.  Anybody out there know why the US position is still so anti-marijuana, despite the extensive research on the benefits/risks of this chemical?   Must be politically motivated, but I cannot really understand why.

Your thoughts are welcomed. Thanks.

Gene

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20030709/ap_on_he_me/canada_medical_marijuana_3