According to Holland, “marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States.” (141) Millions of people use marijuana each year, and many use it daily. This article will review the medical benefits and effects, political effects, and laws associated with the drug. Marijuana legalization is creating a huge debate in the United States, and both parties are providing extensive research and information on the topic. According to Holland, “There have been no proven deaths related solely to marijuana use. (Grotenhermen 2003)” (145) According to my research, marijuana can have both positive and negative effects on the user. Negative effects on the user are usually minimal, but in some cases they can become serious. The positive aspects, on the other hand, seem to significantly improve people's lives. Today, many people use marijuana to improve their lives. In several states, laws have been passed that condone the use of marijuana for medical purposes. These laws allow patients with problems to use marijuana as medicine. Essentially, doctors prescribe marijuana to their patients in place of painkillers or other medications. Many problems are treated with marijuana, and it seems to work for most patients. Some of the medical uses include treating nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, muscle pain, anxiety and depression. The primary use of marijuana is for chronic pain in individuals. Many people think that marijuana cannot solve a chronic pain disorder in any way, but THC, in all its forms, has been scientifically proven to alleviate many pains in people. Scientific studies reviewed by Holland state that "results showed significantly better pain relief...... middle of paper...... individual." As you can see, marijuana is a huge topic of debate in the United States, and it will likely remain so no matter what. The laws could possibly change in the future, but it probably won't change anyone's current opinions. Scientists will continue their research and will most likely uncover evidence supporting both sides, but the marijuana debate will continue for a long time. There will never be a complete cultural shift on the subject, so neither side will ever enjoy full support from the opposition. Works Cited Holland, Julie. The Pot Book: A comprehensive guide to cannabis: its role in medicine, politics, science and culture. Rochester, VT: Park Street, 2010. Print. Ghosh, Palash. “The Pros and Cons of Drug Legalization in the United States” International Business Times. International Business Times, nd Web. April 22. 2014.