THE THERAPEUTIC DRUG

Editor -- Millions of Americans use a drug that many fear is
unhealthy, but may have medical benefits ("Coffee's perk -- it's
healthy," June 10). That drug can produce withdrawals and mild
dependence, but serious addiction problems are rare.

That description certainly applies to coffee, but also applies to
another drug. That drug, unfortunately, comes with such added risks as
arrest, fines, jail and subsequent loss of access to public housing,
food stamps, student financial aid and a variety of other rights and
benefits. That drug is called marijuana.

One difference: The therapeutic benefits are far more solidly
established, and the evidence for addiction is weaker.

BRUCE MIRKEN

Director of Communications

Marijuana Policy Project

Washington