Pubdate: Fri, 25 Jun 2004 Source: Times Union (Albany, NY) Copyright: 2004 Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation Contact: http://www.timesunion.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/452 Author: Bruce Mirken Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n875/a02.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/opinion.htm (Opinion) PILL NOT AS EFFECTIVE AS MEDICAL MARIJUANA It is encouraging that Gov. George Pataki's spokesman indicates that the governor will review any medical marijuana legislation that reaches his desk with an open mind ("Medical marijuana bills gain support," June 17). As he does so, Pataki should consider the large and growing body of scientific evidence indicating that Marinol, the prescription pill containing THC, one of marijuana's active components, is not an adequate substitute for many patients. First, it is well documented that THC is not solely responsible for marijuana's medicinal benefits. Second, the fact that Marinol is only available in pill form is a major drawback. In a report commissioned by the White House, the Institute of Medicine noted, "It is well recognized that Marinol's oral route of administration hampers its effectiveness because of slow absorption and patients' desire for more control over dosing." Groups like the Medical Society of the State of New York support medical marijuana legislation because they understand that for many patients, marijuana is the best alternative. BRUCE MIRKEN Director of Communications Marijuana Policy Project San Francisco, Calif. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake