MARIJUANA HITS DUTCH DRUG STORES

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) -- Marijuana went on sale at Dutch pharmacies
yesterday to help bring relief to thousands of patients suffering from
cancer, AIDS or multiple sclerosis. Around 7,000 patients will be eligible
for prescription marijuana, sold in containers of .16 ounces. Labeled
"Cannabis" and tested by the health ministry, it's covered by health insurance.

Canada, Germany and Australia allow restricted use of medicinal marijuana,
but the Dutch go further by providing the drug and regulating its quality.

Dutch patients are recommended not to smoke the plant, but to use
vaporizers or make marijuana tea. It will be prescribed to those suffering
from nausea or pain associated with cancer, Tourette's syndrome, AIDS or
multiple sclerosis.

Two varieties offer a lower or higher content of Tetrahydrocannabinol, the
active chemical. It costs $48 for a THC content of 15%, and $60 for an 18%
version.