Australia: Survey on cannabis for medical purposes

Researchers of the University of New South Wales conducted a questionnaire survey on the medical use of cannabis. Data were available for 128 participants. Long term and regular medical cannabis use was frequently reported for multiple medical conditions including chronic pain (57 per cent), depression (56 per cent), arthritis (35 per cent), persistent nausea (27 per cent) and weight loss (26 per cent).

Cannabis was perceived to provide "great relief" overall (86 per cent), and substantial relief of specific symptoms such as pain, nausea and insomnia. It was also typically perceived as superior to other medications in terms of undesirable effects, and the extent of relief provided. However, nearly one half (41 per cent) experienced conditions or symptoms that did not improve with the use of cannabis. Issues related to the illegality of the drug caused the most concerns. Participants reported strong support for their use from their physicians and their family.

(Source: Swift W, Gates P, Dillon P. Survey of Australians using cannabis for medical purposes. Harm Reduct J 2005;2(1):18.)

(More at the IACM-Bulletin archives: http://www.cannabis- med.org/)

International Association for Cannabis as Medicine (IACM) Rueckertstrasse 4
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Email: info@cannabis-med.org
http://www.cannabis-med.org

URL: http://www.umsl.edu/~keelr/pot_medical.htm
Owner: Robert O. Keel: rok@umsl.edu
Last Updated: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 2:37 PM