Brian O'Shea
Question:20 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the use of cannabis by patients who are in severe pain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5802/98]
Written Answers. - Medical Use of Cannabis.
Cannabis is a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Acts, 1977 and 1984. This is the schedule of control which, according to the UN Conventions on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, must be applied to substances such as cannabis and cannabis resin, for which there is no current recognised medical or scientific use. The manufacture, possession, supply, and prescription of the drug are prohibited, except under licence from the Minister for Health. Such licences may, under the law, be only granted for the purpose of research, forensic analysis, or in respect of the use of the drug as an essential starting material for the manufacture of other drugs.
The question of legalising cannabis is raised from time to time with frequent references to the medical and other benefits, which allegedly would be associated with such action and I am aware that claims are made about possible benefits for patients suffering from certain conditions such as multiple sclerosis and glaucoma. The position is, however, that the medical claims being made in favour of cannabis are not supported by clinical research and there is to my knowledge, no such scientific evidence available.
We have in this country strict controls in relation to the licensing of medicinal products which must take into account the possible side effects of such products on those to whom they are to be administered. I doubt whether our knowledge of cannabis or its active constituents is such as to allow its licensing as a medicinal product.