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NJ Assemblyman Wants To Allow Medical Marijuana Use For Menstrual Cramps

HOBOKEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Could medical marijuana be the answer to women suffering from monthly menstrual cramps?

One New Jersey assemblyman says yes.

Assemblyman Tim Eustace, D-Paramus, wants to add menstrual cramps to the list of ailments approved for medical marijuana, CBS2's Tracee Carrasco reported.

"Rather than giving opiods or painkillers, which is the usual treatment, this would be a less harmful, less addictive drug," Eustace said.

Gov. Chris Christie has long opposed the use of medical marijuana, and right now in the state a doctor must prove a patient has a "debilitating medical condition" with "chronic pain" such as multiple sclerosis, cancer or terminal illness.

Eustace said it's time women are allowed some relief.

"There are some patients that nothing works for the pain of menstrual cycles, so as I say, another tool in the tool kit."

Actress and New Jersey resident Whoopi Goldberg, a longtime advocate, has even come up with her own line of medical marijuana products just for women.

But Dr. Jennifer Wu, an OB/GYN at Lenox Hill Hospital, says not so fast.

"Most doctors would try a traditional approach, such as painkillers like Advil, or they'll try birth control pills," she said. "Usually, medical marijuana isn't our first line of treatment for menstrual cramps."

Some women in New Jersey, though, are open to the idea.

"If it offers relief without impeding performance, I would say yes," said one woman.

"I think I might try some if it would help with it," added another woman.

"I probably wouldn't," said another.

Eustace is working on getting the bill posted to a committee agenda and is looking for a Senate sponsor. He hopes to have a hearing before the Assembly breaks this June.

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