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The medical use of marijuana is one of the most present topics in the new pharmacology. It is a solution to various pathologies that more and more patients are enjoying. However, it is not yet regulated in Spain at the same level as in other countries.
Spaniards are in favor of therapeutic marijuana
Judging by the surveys that have been carried out, it could be said that therapeutic marijuana enjoys great acceptance in Spanish society. According to CIS studies, 90% of those surveyed are in favor of its normalization and legalization as a medical therapy. In addition, more than half also support the thesis of its use as a recreational substance, compared to 40% who are against this use.
Among the reasons that are helping to consolidate this idea is the legalization in other territories. Various regions of the United States and Uruguay have already begun to regulate the purchase, sale and consumption of cannabis, with positive results. Canada has been another country to join the cannabis normality. Many citizens are already aware of the new status of marijuana and some of its derivatives in these countries. This information is helping to change public opinion, which increasingly sees cannabis as a solution rather than a danger.
The UN recognizes the medicinal power of cannabis
Another important milestone that could ease cannabis’ path to becoming a legal substance is the UN’s change of position. Since 1961, this natural substance was included in the list of the drug convention. Not long ago, however, the UN decided to remove cannabis from this list. One of the reasons was the recognition of the work that therapeutic marijuana does for many sick people.
It is important to note that this decision was taken with a narrow majority within the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. The change in question covers medical marijuana, but not the recreational version of cannabis. Thus, this version will continue to be considered a drug and, therefore, illegal in the eyes of the UN.
Risks arising from the non-legalization of medical marijuana
Many people are forced to use therapeutic marijuana treatments to cope with different pains and pathologies. However, they are faced with an unattractive scenario. The lack of legalization of marijuana in Spain means that this substance cannot be obtained in the pharmaceutical field. They are then forced to resort to the usual means of consumption, some within the law, such as associations or self-consumption, and others outside the law. In general, there is an obstacle for these people, since it is difficult for them to have access to a basic medicine in their daily lives. In addition, they are not guaranteed quality standards or composition.
Legal uncertainty for patients
With the purchase and sale of marijuana on the streets, there are risks linked to crime and marginalization. This is totally unthinkable in any other medical field. That is why regular users of this substance ask the authorities for actions to help them. They may face fines for consumption or purchase of narcotics, even though they seek marijuana for therapy.
The medicinal use of marijuana is an issue that current and future generations will have to face. Medicine must incorporate all possible elements for its therapies, thus banishing a prejudice that has haunted cannabis for several decades.
