Why it matters: The Ohio Medical Board approved the addition of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana use in the state. However, petitions to add autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) were not approved. This decision affects patient access to medical marijuana and raises questions about the inclusion of certain conditions on the state’s list.
What they are saying: The Medical Marijuana Committee’s experts stated that there is not enough evidence to support adding autism and OCD to the list of qualifying conditions. They expressed concerns about the potential risks of cannabis use, such as cognitive development issues and psychosis. However, patient advocates and industry groups believe that many Ohioans could benefit from medical marijuana treatment for these conditions.
The big picture: Ohio’s medical marijuana program already includes more than a dozen qualifying conditions. The addition of IBS expands patient access to medical cannabis. However, the decision to exclude autism and OCD raises questions about the criteria for inclusion on the list and the balance between potential benefits and risks.
What to watch: The next opportunity to submit petitions for new qualifying conditions begins in November. Petitioners may need to provide new scientific information to support their proposals. Additionally, activists in Ohio are working to legalize recreational marijuana, with a proposed ballot measure expected to appear later this year.
My take: The decision to add IBS as a qualifying condition shows that Ohio regulators recognize the potential benefits of medical marijuana for certain conditions. However, the exclusion of autism and OCD raises concerns about the criteria for inclusion. It is important to carefully consider the available evidence and balance the potential benefits with the risks when determining eligibility for medical marijuana use. The ongoing efforts to legalize recreational marijuana in Ohio also indicate a shifting attitude towards cannabis in the state.
