ADHS finds no evidence for medical marijuana use for anxiety
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has rejected petitions to add new qualifying conditions for which individuals may participate in Arizona’s medical marijuana program. Petitioners had sought the addition of four conditions to the program: Migraines; Generalized Anxiety Disorder; Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
“At this time, there is insufficient valid, scientific evidence that justifies adding these conditions to Arizona’s medical marijuana program,” said ADHS Director Will Humble. “We heard from a lot of people about their experiences, the Department reviewed their petitions, but the science does not support expanding the program by adding these new qualifying conditions. The medical marijuana program will remain as approved by Arizona voters.”
In accordance with the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA) rules, ADHS must twice annually consider the addition of new, debilitating conditions for which individuals may qualify for the program. ADHS accepts petitions in January and July.
ADHS accepted petitions for these four conditions in January; in May, the Department received public comment, both written and in-person. The Department also contracted with the University of Arizona to scour published studies on the effectiveness of marijuana in aiding the conditions. The ADHS Medical Advisory Committee provided a recommendation to the Director.
“In accordance with the AMMA, the evaluation of new, qualifying conditions for the program is an ongoing process,” said Humble. “ADHS will review future petitions with the same evenhanded approach, taking into account the full weight of scientific and other evidence.”
For more information visit www.azdhs.gov.