Ethical Dilemmas Revolving Around the use of Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis in Pakistan

Authors

  • Ayesha Ashfaq Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan
  • Athar Iqbal Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex Lahore. Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan.
  • Maryam Tahir Shifa International Hospital Faisalabad

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i1.587

Keywords:

Cannabis Legalization, Medical Marijuana, Multiple Sclerosis, Socioeconomic Impact

Abstract

This editorial explores the complex landscape surrounding the use of medical cannabis for treating Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Pakistan, a country with a significant prevalence of the condition but facing numerous challenges in cannabis utilization. Despite cannabis' historical therapeutic applications and emerging global recognition for its medical benefits, Pakistan's strict anti-cannabis laws, influenced by cultural and religious beliefs, significantly hinder its adoption. The editorial highlights the need for educational and regulatory frameworks to improve awareness and control the medical cannabis market, suggesting that such measures could enhance treatment options for MS patients and generate tax revenue, while addressing concerns about addiction and illegal trade.

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Author Biographies

Ayesha Ashfaq, Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan

Consultant Neurologist, Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan

Athar Iqbal, Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex Lahore. Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan.

Assistant Professor Neurology-Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex Lahore. Consultant Neurologist-Omar Hospital Lahore Pakistan.

Maryam Tahir, Shifa International Hospital Faisalabad

Consultant Neurophysician, Shifa International Hospital Faisalabad

References

Deutsche Welle (DW). Pakistan to begin industrial hemp production [Internet]. 2021. Available from: https://www.dw.com/en/pakistan-industrial-hemp-cannabis-production/a-56106271

Business Recorder. Govt approves first license for industrial cannabis production [Internet]. 2020 [cited year month day]. Available from: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40015966

Zaman Q, Siddiqui M. A silver lining in the dark clouds: Medical Marijuana, in the Neurological disorders and its future in Pakistan. Pak J Neurol Sci. 2017;12(3):Article 6.

European Academy of Neurology (EAN). EAN guideline on palliative care in multiple sclerosis [Internet]. 2020 [cited year month day]. Available from: https://www.uems-neuroboard.org/web/images/docs/exam/2021/Guideline-Papers/EAN-guideline-on-pall-care-in-MS-Solari2020.pdf

National MS Society. Marijuana FAQs [Internet]. [cited year month day]. Available from: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Complementary-Alternative-Medicines/Marijuana/Marijuana-FAQs

Hasan SS, Shaikh A, Ochani RK, Ashrafi MM, Ansari ZN, Abbas SH, Abbasi MK, Ashraf MA, Ali W. Perception and practices regarding cannabis consumption in Karachi, Pakistan: A cross-sectional study. J Ethn Subst Abuse. 2021;20(3):471-489. doi: 10.1080/15332640.2019.1667287.

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Published

2024-03-13

How to Cite

Ashfaq, A., Iqbal, A., & Tahir, M. (2024). Ethical Dilemmas Revolving Around the use of Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis in Pakistan . Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research, 4(1), 1–2. https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i1.587

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 1 (2024): Volume 4, Issue 1 - January to March 2024

Section

Editorial

License

Copyright (c) 2024 Ayesha Ashfaq, Athar Iqbal, Maryam Tahir

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