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More Canadian physicians oppose legalizing recreational pot than support it, suggests a nationwide survey.

The poll of 235 general practitioners conducted by MD Analytics in June states 47 per cent of respondents disapprove of the move, which takes effect Oct. 17, while 32 embrace it — a result that’s consistent throughout the provinces, said the company.

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For those in opposition, 87 per cent say they expect to see more patients showing psychotic symptoms, and 88 per cent believe they’ll be treating more people for substance abuse.

But those on the other side say legalization should mean a decline in prescriptions or patient visits to treat some of the same mental symptoms, as well as chronic pain, fibromyalgia and insomnia.

The survey exposes concerns of the unknown and of the legislation’s possible deeper effects, said Rahim Shah of MD Analytics.

“There’s concerns over misuse and psychotic effects, more of the longer-term impacts,” he said.