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Review
. 2012 Mar-Apr;109(2):90-8.

Legalization, decriminalization & medicinal use of cannabis: a scientific and public health perspective

Dragan M Svrakic  1 , Patrick J Lustman, Ashok Mallya, Taylor Andrea Lynn, Rhonda Finney, Neda M Svrakic
Affiliations
Review

Legalization, decriminalization & medicinal use of cannabis: a scientific and public health perspective

Dragan M Svrakic et al. Mo Med. 2012 Mar-Apr.

Abstract

Empirical and clinical studies clearly demonstrate significant adverse effects of cannabis smoking on physical and mental health as well as its interference with social and occupational functioning. These negative data far outweigh a few documented benefits for a limited set of medical indications, for which safe and effective alternative treatments are readily available. If there is any medical role for cannabinoid drugs, it lies with chemically defined compounds, not with unprocessed cannabis plant. Legalization or medical use of smoked cannabis is likely to impose significant public health risks, including an increased risk of schizophrenia, psychosis, and other forms of substance use disorders.

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Figures

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Reefer Madness is a well-known 1936 American propaganda exploitation film revolving around the melodramatic events that ensue when high school students are lured by pushers to try “marijuana” — from a hit and run accident, to manslaughter, suicide, attempted rape, and descent into madness.
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Taking advantage of the obscure legal status of cannabis, businesses involving sales of cannabis are flourishing and even stock-market investments are available.
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For example, CannabisInvestments. com provides information on ways one can invest in hemp-related and medical marijuana products and companies.
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See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

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