More research on medical marijuana
The American Academy of Pediatrics is calling for more research on medical marijuana.
A small step that a local mother says she is grateful for.
There are some people that believe medical marijuana can help some severe conditions.
But without extensive research, how can that be proven?
The American Academy of Pediatrics wants to find out.
Lance is an adventurous nine-year-old boy.
He seems happy but that wasn't always the case.
His mother Thalia Michelle says Lance suffers from autism.
"In the past he's exhibited severe aggression, self injurious behavior, things that were very concerning. Going up to babies and pulling their hair, biting himself, biting others," says Thalia Michelle, mother for medicinal marijuana.
About a year ago, Lance was given a legal hemp oil which he takes daily.
Michelle says it has made a significant difference.
"His aggression has gone down, his eye contact is up, his language is up. I want to know what would happen if we're able to try other strains with him," says Michelle.
Now with the updated statement released Monday by the American Academy of Pediatrics, there are more possibilities.
Although they still oppose legalizing marijuana, citing potential harms to children, they support further study of it.
To help with that, the academy is also recommending changing marijuana from a schedule one drug to a schedule two.
"It would be a welcome change if marijuana were classified as a schedule two drug because then it would be eligible for much more funding to provide the research that's needed to see how this substance potentially can be beneficial," says Dr. Jason Terk, Texas chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The academy is also pushing to make marijuana decriminalized.
Limited research to date shows cannabanoids can help specific conditions in adults.
At the same time, Dr. Jason Terck with the Texas chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics says there are negative health effects to adolescents; such as impaired short-term memory, decreased concentration and motor skills.
One reason why more research is needed.
"Absolutely movement forward. It's a very conservative and narrow stance but we will take it, absolutely. I think families all over should be heartened by the fact that the Academy of Pediatrics is supporting research," says Michelle.
On Tuesday, Mothers Advocating Medicinal Marijuana for Autism will be at the capitol speaking with legislators, bringing them the science behind it and sharing their stories.