Is Cannabis a Solution to the Opioid Epidemic?

Among the many problems that we face today, the opioid epidemic in America is of incredible importance. The New York Times called it, “the worst drug crisis in American history“. And based on recent statistics, it’s estimated that there are over 64,000 deaths in America caused by drug overdose annually.

Medical marijuana is often prescribed to reduce chronic pain, anxiety, and stress. About ten years ago, four out of five new heroin users would begin with using prescription opioids. Today, three-fourths of new heroin addicts begin with an opioid addiction, but this time it’s most likely due to heroin since access to prescription drugs has become more difficult.

Cannabis as a Solution?

Studies have found that medical cannabis is useful in managing opioid addiction by reducing cravings and preventing relapse. There‘s evidence that using cannabis can help with withdrawal symptoms by acting on the same brain receptors involved with addictive behaviors.

Impact of Legalizing Marijuana on the Opioid Epidemic

Replacing dangerous opioids with medicinal cannabis has proven to be beneficial in some states. One study found that hospitalization rates for opioid dependence dropped on average 13% in states that had medical cannabis laws. Another study showed that physicians prescribed fewer opioids in states where medical cannabis is legalized.

According to a research published by the National Bureau of Economic Research in 2014, states that allow medical marijuana shops to operate had a lower rate of opioid addiction and overdose-related deaths than those that didn’t.

As marijuana takes hold as an alternative to opioids, medical experts caution that it’s not a solution to the opioid epidemic. Opioids and marijuana present very different risks and benefits in treating chronic pain.

Some marijuana doctors NY suggest the legalization of marijuana for medical purposes has helped combat the opioid epidemic by providing an alternative source for pain management, from having no options to now having a large number of options with medical cannabis. Visit the Indica MD website to get your marijuana card  to purchase medical marijuana for chronic pain relief and anxiety.