delta 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and therapeutic research legislation for cancer patients

D. A. Treffert and D. E. Joranson

The Controlled Substances Board evaluated the implementation of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) program in Wisconsin that distributes delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 9-THC) to cancer chemotherapy patients with nausea and vomiting refractory to conventional antiemetic drugs. The board concluded that the distribution mechanism for delta 9-THC is appropriate and adequate in Wisconsin. The drug does relieve nausea and vomiting in some cancer chemotherapy patients, but adverse side effects are prevalent. Important questions about its safety and effectiveness remain and should be resolved through scientific research and within the existing framework for testing investigational drugs that are controlled substances. "Marijuana therapeutic research" legislation, similar to that passed in 32 states, was introduced in Wisconsin after implementation and evaluation of the NCI program, but failed to recognize the existing legal framework for approving new drugs and threatened to disrupt the NCI program. With assistance from the American Cancer Society, the State Medical Society, and volunteers and professionals in cancer research, the legislation was adapted to the existing legal and administrative framework.