Cannabis ineffective for MS and Epilepsy

Cannabis is useless in treating multiple sclerosis and epilepsy according to a study by the Mayo Clinic in Canada.

The study found there was no benefits in treating epilepsy at all.

With multiple sclerosis the study found that cannabis had no use in controlling spasticity or tremor.

Patients that use cannabis are at greater risk of becoming addicted than others in the general population.

Hazards to patients include persistent mood disorders and cognitive dysfunction.

The lack of usefulness was not effected by the method of use such as smoking, oral THC or oral cannabis extract.

(Source: Lancet, 24 July 2004)

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-

Another adverse impact on cannabis use is its effect on the suppression of the human immune system.

Patients with multiple sclerosis or epilepsy do not need a suppressed immune system as it opens up the possibility of other medical complications.

Other scientific studies show that cannabis use opens up cancer, psychosis, schizophrenia and DNA changes that can also lead to medical complications.

Australia must reduce the number of young people that used illicit drugs in the last 12 months from the present level of 31 per cent to worlds best practice of 3 per cent.