Pubdate: Tue, 10 Mar 1998 Date: 10/03/1998 Source: Los Angeles Times (CA) Author: Gregory Wentzel Related: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v98.n842.a04.html Note: Headline by MAP Gottlieb should develop the first requirement of being a useful physician: the ability to objectively evaluate facts. Marijuana is a relatively safe drug with few minor side effects. The worst "side effect" is the possibility of criminalization by the justice system. Marijuana has a 5,000-year recorded history of being used for its therapeutic benefits: relaxation, euphoria and pain relief. One might think that doctors and medical students might appreciate those benefits. If someday I need marijuana to treat nausea, vomiting or pain from any cause, I certainly would give it a try, rather than those toxic, synthetic substances that can be had in any pharmacy or grocery store. GREGORY WENTZEL La Mesa