FDA Chief Samuel Zacate In Favor Of Legalizing Medical Marijuana in the Philippines
FDA – Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General Samuel Zacate said he is in favor of legalizing medical marijuana in the Philippines.
Medical marijuana involves the use of the cannabis plant and its chemical components to address a variety of medical conditions or alleviate symptoms. The primary active compounds in marijuana, known for their potential therapeutic effects, include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is associated with psychoactive properties, while CBD, non-psychoactive, is believed to offer diverse medical benefits.
The use of medical marijuana extends to managing symptoms associated with various medical conditions, including chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, muscle spasms, seizures, and appetite loss. Research has explored its potential in treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and specific types of pain.
Many countries and states have authorized the medicinal use of marijuana, but there is considerable variation in regulations and qualifying conditions. Normally, healthcare professionals prescribe medical marijuana, and patients can acquire it from authorized dispensaries or pharmacies.
It is essential to recognize that, despite providing relief to some individuals, the use of medical marijuana is a subject of controversy. Continuous research seeks to improve our understanding of its efficacy and potential risks and perspectives on its medical application can differ among healthcare professionals and policymakers.
Based on a report from Inquirer, Samuel Zacate, the Director General of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), voiced his backing for the legalization of medical marijuana in the Philippines. He stated during a briefing at Malacañang that the authority to legalize medical marijuana lies with the legislative branch, and he cannot represent their views.
“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 mentioned that the medical realm is marked by innovation, which renders it difficult to foresee its future trajectory.
“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 proposed bill advocating for the legalization of the substance obtained initial approval from a combined committee of the House of Representatives.
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