The use of medical cannabis has often met resistance among many Filipinos because of the perception of marijuana as an illegal drug that may cause a person to act dangerously, either toward themselves or others. However, numerous studies show that cannabis can be useful for medicinal purposes.
During the “Science Supports It, Patients Need It: Medicinal Cannabis Now” forum and press conference last Dec. 19, Dr. Shiksha Gallow, a US-certified clinical pathology cannabis clinician, explained the concept of endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters within the body that regulate functions and processes such as immune response, sleep, pain perception, appetite, cardiovascular function, and digestion.
“Endocannabinoids are very important in bringing our body back to homeostasis or balance,” said Gallow.
She further explained that endocannabinoids are produced by the body during exercise, which gives a euphoric feeling to a person. However, if a person is suffering from an illness, they may lack the capacity for physical movement, which prevents the production of endocannabinoids.
Over the years, it has been discovered that medical cannabis produces compounds similar to endocannabinoids, called phytocannabinoids. When medical cannabis is taken, these phytocannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Cannabinoid therapy has been found helpful in treating chronic pain, autoimmune inflammatory conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, palliative care, insomnia, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, epilepsy, cancer, HIV wasting syndrome, ADHD, and autism.
While acknowledging its positive effects, Gallow noted that cannabis can be addictive but pointed out that it is less addictive than a cup of coffee, as the addiction rate for cannabis is 7 percent compared to caffeine’s 9 percent.
“The addiction cannot be equated with that of cocaine, heroin, opioids, or alcohol. The withdrawal is mild and short-lived,” Gallow said, adding that there has never been a recorded fatal cannabis overdose involving a cannabis plant.
Senator Robin Padilla, a prominent advocate for the legalization of medical cannabis in the country, shared how his research into the plant’s use has taken him to other nations utilizing its benefits.
“Recreational marijuana is miles away from the pharmaceutical cannabis that we are trying to legalize,” Padilla said.
He added that the majority of senators support the legalization of medical cannabis but are concerned about preventing its abuse, which is why he emphasizes the difference between recreational marijuana and medical cannabis.
“I’m advocating for this for Filipinos who don’t have the money to pay for expensive cancer treatments. Whenever they come to our office asking for help as they go through daunting treatments, we are empowered to continue advocating for medical cannabis,” said Padilla.
The senator also shared that the legislative process for the legalization of medical cannabis is ongoing, with the bill yet to undergo interpolation and amendment before reaching the Third Reading.
