Introduced by Colorado State Representative Edie Hooton in March, HB 1263 would add ASD and acute pain to Colorado's list of qualifying medical marijuana conditions. ASD is known for creating severe communication and behavior disorders, causing those who suffer from it to lash out physically while struggling to express their emotions. Since she began administering cannabis orally to her son, Vincent, a little over a year ago, Michelle Walker says, his violent outbursts and extreme behavior have almost stopped.
"Many of our kids have great receptive language, and they have full understanding of what's going on, but they can't communicate. What if my son is depressed or suicidal but can't communicate it to me?" Walker asks.
The United States Food and Drug Administration currently approves two drugs for ASD, Abilify and Risperdal, both of which have black-box warnings that suicide and other fatal conditions are potential side effects; class-action suits have been filed by patients who've used the drugs.
