MEDICAL USE OF CANNABIS TRIAL REOPENS DRUG DEBATE

AT the same time as armed police smashed marijuana dens in Blair
Athol, government workers in Macquarie St were preparing a document to
allow doctors to prescribe cannabis-based drugs.

Ironically, the drug the State Government and the public want off our
streets also contains chemicals which could provide pain relief to
thousands of the chronically ill.

The drug also contains properties that could pave the way for a viable
textile industry.

The Iemma Government prides itself on the tough stance it has taken
against street drugs.

But while the Government denies it supports the decriminalisation of
cannabis, the public has been left confused over its position with the
debate over the controversial use of cannabis for medicinal purposes
being re-ignited. Health Minister Reba Meagher announced yesterday she
was planning to allow a trial of a cannabis-based drug, pending
approval by the Commonwealth.

Support for cannabis-based medicine extends to the UK and US where a
trial of an oral spray, Sativex, has been successful. Researchers have
found Sativex reduces pain in patients suffering from multiple
sclerosis, cancer and AIDS.

Manufacturers extract tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoids, the
high-inducing compounds people smoke for recreation. They turn the
chemicals into a compound without the psychoactive effect.

AIDS and cancer patients who suffer loss of appetite or extreme nausea
are said to benefit from THC, which not only reduces pain but in some
cases reduces nausea and stimulates appetite.

Overseas research has shown the use of cannabinoids to treat MS, which
causes tremors and muscle spasms, has mixed results.

Cannabis-based drugs can ease muscle pain and some doctors believe
their effects outweigh long-term adverse side-effects.

The medical use of cannabis was squashed by former prime minister John
Howard. But with a new federal government, the State Government is
hoping it can have the drug approved for a trial.

The NSW Greens, who have long supported cannabis being used for
medicinal purposes, believe the Government is sending a mixed message.

"Now the Premier has reversed his previous ban on medicinal cannabis
and industrial hemp, he needs to address cannabis use, which has
increased dramatically in the 12 years of the Labor Government,"
Greens spokeswoman Lee Rhiannon said.

"He should now initiate a rational public debate on drug use."