The AMA just had a great opportunity to call out the powers that be but completely dropped the ball... They could have easily said the research that's needed to make a reasonable conclusion on this matter can't be done because of the scheduling of this chemical by the DEA and federal government. Their recommendation could have been as simple as changing the Schedule 1 if they felt wary of outright endorsing cannabis or even saying it has a promising outlook. I don't understand why after decades the medical associations, doctors, and scientists are still saying "more research is needed.' How about they lobby to change that so they can do the research?! So infuriating. Thanks for letting me rant.

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Citizen: Asks doctor about using Cannabis to reduce symptoms of medical condition.

Medical Professionals: I'm sorry but that is still illegal and more study is needed for us to make an informed decision for you.

Scientists: Hey government we'd like to study this possibly life changing chemical. Can we research this more please?

Government: We do not approve of your study as it's a Schedule 1 drug.

Citizen: Hey government I found something that alleviates all the symptoms of my illness with very little side effects; in fact it's way better than the pharmaceutical my doctor prescribed. Why can't my doctor prescribe this to me?

Government: Cannabis is a Schedule 1 drug which means "substances, or chemicals [here] are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." Oh and we're not going to approve any further substantial research into this chemical even though hundreds of thousands if not millions of people, including doctors, have expressed significant interest in relieving of a multitude of symptoms with this chemical with 'minimal' side effects.

TLDR Citizens, Medical Health Professionals, Scientists: Let's study this chemical further as it shows tremendous promise to alleviate symptoms for various ailments and illnesses. Government/Laws: NO, tough luck.