Legalizing Medical Marijuan The Effect On Patients

Legalizing Medical Marijuana: The Effect on Patients Jill Gonzalez Jersey College Abstract The legalization of medical marijuana has been one of the heavily debated topics in the past few years. While several states have moved forward with legalization, it still has not been addressed on a national level. As of now, it has not been voted on in the state of Florida, but is on the ballet for November 2014. This brings up the question, what medical benefits does it offer, and how will it benefit patients? Legalizing Medical Marijuana: The Effect on Patients Millions of Americans suffer from chronic illnesses. Prescription drugs are the main course of treatment, however they cause over 38 thousand deaths in the United States each†¦show more content†¦Hydrocodone/acetaminophen, also known as Lortab is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for pain ranging from minor to severe. Side effects range from upset stomach, and dry mouth, to seizures, and jaundice as a result of liver damage (Drugs.com, n.d) One of the most common, as well as dangerous side effects is respiratory depression, which can cause the patient to receive an insufficient amount of oxygen (Drugs.com, n.d). This medication also runs a high risk of addiction, and therefore must be carefully stored. Even if a patient uses the medication correctly, they run the risk of it being stolen due to addictive quality, and value of street resale. While a prescription many cost up to $2.50 per tablet from a pharmacy, it may be sold for much more illegally (Drugs.com, n .d). Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States, with 18% of Americans over age eighteen suffering from some form of anxiety (ADAA Facts, n.d.). The cost of treatment accounts for nearly one third of our nations healthcare debt (ADAA Facts, n.d.). Xanex is one of the most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications. It is highly addictive, and can cause side effects such as depression, insomnia, seizures, and jaundice (Drugs.com, n.d). It also has several contraindications, such as glaucoma, and prescriptions including birth control (Drugs.com, n.d). A prescription can cost up to $6 per tablet (Drugs.com, n.d). Much like pain