The American Academy of Pediatrics is the lead group for children’s medicine. Most pediatricians follow their recommendation closely.
In a report released in late January, the group modified its position on marijuana, saying that it should be removed from the federal Schedule I list so more research can occur. The AAP also recommended there penalties for adolescents possessing marijuana to be reduced to misdemeanors.
Dr. Seth Ammerman, the lead author on the policy says of the recommendation:
“…could help make a big difference in promoting more research.”
However, the AAP still opposes full legalization, and is simply recommending a reclassification of the drug, citing concerns about kids getting access.
Although cannabis and related compounds like CBD have been shown to help kids with debilitating seizures, it is still a question that needs more research.
The AAP also maintains that cannabis should only be prescribed
“…for children with life-limiting or severely debilitating conditions and for whom current therapies are inadequate”
Although the AAP isn’t on board with legalization, it is good to see influential groups like this moving the needle. No reasonable person endorses giving kids marijuana for kicks – there are negative effects, especially for kids since their brains are still developing.
But more comprehensive research is needed to see if cannabis is a workable alternative for debilitating medical conditions in kids.