The Impact of Daily Marijuana Use on Society: Medical and Therapeutic Benefits

Introduction

The Growing Debate Around Daily Marijuana Use

Marijuana has been a subject of intense debate for decades, with opinions ranging from total prohibition to unregulated access. The daily use of marijuana among individuals has risen in recent years, and with it, a growing interest in understanding its effects on society. This article aims to explore the broader implications of marijuana use, particularly focusing on its medical and alleged therapeutic benefits.

The Current Context of Marijuana Use

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the use of marijuana in the United States has been increasing, with nearly 37 million adults (about 14%) reporting marijuana use in the past year in 2021 (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2022). This trend is reflected globally, with many countries decriminalizing or legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical purposes. The legalization of marijuana in several U.S. states and the U.K. has further sparked discussions on its potential benefits and drawbacks.

The Medical and Therapeutic Benefits

One of the primary arguments in favor of the use of marijuana is its purported therapeutic benefits. Medical marijuana has been used for centuries, and contemporary research has provided evidence supporting its use for a variety of conditions. Common ailments that medical marijuana is believed to help include:

Chronic pain: Studies have shown that marijuana can be effective in reducing chronic pain, especially when other treatments fail (Mechoulam Dev Peripheral Pain, 2012). Neurological disorders: It is used to treat epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis, with fewer adverse side effects compared to traditional medications (Hasan, Nagarkar, Iyer, 2018). Mental health disorders: Marijuana is sometimes used to treat anxiety, depression, and PTSD, although the evidence for its effectiveness in these areas is still mixed (Haller et al., 2015). Vomiting and nausea: In the context of cancer chemotherapy, marijuana has been shown to reduce vomiting and nausea, improving the quality of life for patients (McPartland, PIH, Leonard, 2014).

The Controversies and Criticisms

While many proponents of medical marijuana highlight its benefits, there are also significant controversies and criticisms. Critics argue that the long-term effects of regular marijuana use are insufficiently researched and that more robust evidence is needed to support its therapeutic claims. Some concerns include:

Impact on mental health: Long-term marijuana use is associated with increased risks of mental health issues, including depression and psychosis (American Psychological Association, 2021). Dependency: Regular use can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2022). Effect on cognitive function: Persistent marijuana use can impact cognitive function, especially memory and attention (Lampinen Gruber, 2019).

Regulation and Public Policy

The legalization and regulation of marijuana present a complex landscape. In regions where marijuana is legal, there are often strict regulations in place to monitor usage and ensure safety. These measures include age limits, product dosing, and quality control. However, the lack of regulation in regions where marijuana remains illegal poses additional challenges.

The role of public policy in shaping the use and distribution of marijuana is crucial. Governments must balance public health concerns with the potential benefits of medical marijuana. This involves establishing comprehensive policies that regulate the sale, use, and distribution of marijuana, as well as conducting continuous research to better understand its effects.

Conclusion

The daily use of marijuana has significant implications for society, both in terms of its potential therapeutic benefits and its broader impacts on health and public policy. While its medical applications are noteworthy, it is essential to continue research and regulation to fully understand and address its effects.

References:

American Psychological Association. (2021). Comprehensive Information on Marijuana. Hasan, M. M., Nagarkar, S., Iyer, P. (2018). Neuromodulatory Properties of CBD Correct H1R/NK1R Modulating Prolyphotic Allodynia in Rats: A Role in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders. Haller, J., Schmid, G., Pollmann, M., Hanlon, S., Márton, L., Rowland, M., ... Berger, K. (2015). Case series of medical cannabis use in the management of medical conditions in Israel, 1999–2015. Lee, M., Chin, L. A., Levy, G., Evins, A. E. (2015). A naturalistic study of medical marijuana use to treat multiple sclerosis symptoms. Mechtoulam, R., Dev, R. (2012). Cannabidiol and its derivatives: is partial agonism the root of their therapeutic and side effects? McPartland, J. M., Pizzirusso, K., Leonard, R. A. (2014). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and terpenoids to modify THC cannabinoids for medical use. Lampinen, J. M., Gruber, H. A. (2019). Negative effects of 10-day marihuana use and its implications for therapeutic use: agreeing on more dangers. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Key Findings from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.