x
Breaking News
More () »

What's the future of medical pot following FDA's approval of Epidiolex?

Marijuana supporters and critics agree with the FDA decision, but differ on full legalization.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The Food and Drug Administration recently approved a non-smokable drug derived from marijuana that can treat serious forms of epilepsy.

“It's a bit of a surprise,” said Carlos Hermida.

Hermida is with a group pushing to reform Florida's marijuana laws. And he's opening a CBD dispensary this week.

“It's good that at least the FDA is approving certain compounds,” he said

The approval of Epidiolex marks the first time that the FDA approved a drug with an active ingredient derived from marijuana. The drug will treat people with two rare and severe forms of epilepsy.

While the decision is a big move by a federal agency, Hermida isn't completely satisfied.

“It's a lot of frustration with the baby steps, this should've happened quite a long time ago," he said. "THC and the other cannabinoids are rather safe.”

Hermida wants full legalization, which worries anti-drug groups.

“The so-called medical marijuana advocates were never really serious about legalizing marijuana for medical reasons,” said John Pastuovic.

Pastuovic, with Drug Free America, is happy with Epidolex's approval because it went through rigorous testing.

The FDA studied the drug with 516 patients. It was shown to be effective in reducing the frequency of seizures.

“I think it's really the first step for states to re-look, who have legalized so called medical marijuana, to take another look at their laws and start pulling back that legislation now that we have a safe, effective FDA-approved drug on the market,” Pastuovic said.

Meanwhile, Carlos will continue to fight for it.

The FDA approved Epidiolex partly because it does not contain THC, the component that gives marijuana users a "high" from using it.

Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 10 News app now.

Have a news tip? Email tips@wtsp.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.

Before You Leave, Check This Out