FDA Chief Samuel Zacate Expresses Support for Medical Marijuana Legalization
FDA – Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General Samuel Zacate expressed openness to granting permits for medical marijuana commercial use if legalized.
Medical marijuana involves utilizing the cannabis plant and its chemical components to address various medical conditions or alleviate symptoms. The primary active compounds in marijuana, which may have therapeutic effects, are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is recognized for its psychoactive properties, whereas CBD is non-psychoactive and is thought to offer diverse medical advantages.
The application of medical marijuana extends to symptom management in numerous medical conditions, such as chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, muscle spasms, seizures, and loss of appetite. Investigations have explored its potential in treating conditions like multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and specific types of pain.
While numerous countries and states have sanctioned the medical use of marijuana, the regulations and qualifying conditions differ widely. Typically, medical marijuana is prescribed by healthcare professionals, and patients can obtain it through licensed dispensaries or pharmacies.
It is crucial to acknowledge that, although medical marijuana may bring relief to some individuals, its use remains contentious. Ongoing research aims to enhance our understanding of its effectiveness and potential risks, and opinions on its medical utilization can vary among healthcare professionals and policymakers.
Based on a report from Inquirer, the Director General of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Samuel Zacate, expressed support for the legalization of medical marijuana in the Philippines.
He mentioned during a briefing at Malacañang that the decision to legalize medical marijuana rests with the legislative branch, and he cannot speak on their behalf.
“For the record, the Food and Drug Administration, and me as director general, is very much open for the marijuana as long that it has been streamlined,” said Zacate.
“Filipinos must have a wide range of therapeutic indication or therapeutic drug of choice,” he added.
Zacate stated that the field of medicine is characterized by innovation, making it challenging to predict its future direction.
“Let’s take for example penicillin. It came out from fungi, and now it is used in treating wounds and antibiotics,” said Zacate in a mix of English and Filipino.
A bill proposing the legalization of the substance received preliminary approval from a joint panel of the House of Representatives.
READ ALSO: Dela Rosa Says Legalization of Marijuana Can Help PH Economy
