Vending machines dispensing the drug cannabis will soon begin operating in the US state of California, according to various news reports.

Users of the machine must, however, have been prescribed the drug for health reasons and must provide a prescription, be fingerprinted and photographed before using the machine.

They will then be required to slide a card, given by the operator, into the machine as well as providing their fingerprint for a second time.

Two machines are currently in operation in the state and operators of the machine have said that vending machines issuing prescription drugs could soon become a common sight in the US.

Although a controversial issue, 11 of the US states currently permit the use of cannabis for medical reasons and pain relief.