Journal of addictive diseases
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The smoking of marijuana for medicinal applications is a volatile and difficult issue for the medical and regulatory communities which has reached the forefront of discussions of public policy. Any consideration of this issue must take into account the substantial toxicity, impurity, and morbidity associated with marijuana use. ⋯ Several examinations of the issue have consistently drawn question to the validity of smoking an impure substance while voicing concern for the well being of patients in need. The historical, social, medical, and legal issues are examined.