According to a recent online review that was published in The Open Neurology Journal, an Open Access online journal which publishes research articles, reviews, letters and guest edited single topic issues in all areas of neurology and neurological disorders, the evidence that is provided in the Schedule 1 drug classification, where cannabis is currently placed, is not accurate, and is not able to be defended.

      Under this Schedule 1 classification, it is stated that cannabis has NO medicinal value (what?), nor is there enough infortmation on it’s safety. “Under federal law, Schedule I controlled substances are defined as possessing “a high potential for abuse, … no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and there is a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug or other substance under medical supervision.” Heroin and Methaqualone (Quaaludes) are examples of other Schedule I substances. Cocaine and methamphetamine are classified as schedule II controlled substances.” —NORML

      In 2011, NORML presented the Obama administration with a 9 year old administrative petition that aimed to initiate hearings that would address the current schedule classification of cannabis. The Obama administration, through the DEA administrator, Michele Leonhart, denied the petition. This was their statement “”[T]here are no adequate and well-controlled studies proving (marijuana’s) efficacy; the drug is not accepted by qualified experts. … At this time, the known risks of marijuana use have not been shown to be outweighed by specific benefits in well-controlled clinical trials that scientifically evaluate safety and efficacy.”

      In June 2012, DEA administrator Michele Leonhart spoke before the congress that she believed “all illegal drugs are bad”. This was also her answer when faced with the question “Is heroin worse for someone’s health than marijuana?” She refused to give a definite answer, or acknowledge any facts. Read more here.

Source: NORML

—Stay High, Stay Educated, Stay REAL