Cannabis Legislation Linked To Reduced RX Drug Use
by MADELINE FERGUSON
Several research studies, papers and anecdotes have shown a link between cannabis legislation and decreased use of prescription drugs.
Adult-use legislation reduces the number of people who take prescription medication for anxiety, sleep, pain, and seizures, according to a new research paper from the journal of Health Economics. Adult-use means anyone over the age of 21 can purchase and use marijuana.
Researchers looked at Medicaid reporting of prescription drugs to collect data.
The study showed “significant reductions in the volume of prescriptions within the drug classes that align with the medical indications for pain, depression, anxiety, sleep, psychosis, and seizures”
For anyone who has ever taken these types of medications, this news could be seen as a relief. Many medications used for mental health and sleep disorders have unpleasant side effects and can become habit-forming. Cannabis is a more natural way with far less side effects that has shown to be effective in helping people both sleep better and manage anxiety.
The research paper also discusses the possibility of harm reduction, because many medications used to treat pain and anxiety - including opioids - can be extremely addicting. We all know the opioid epidemic has wreaked havoc on society.
The study does point to a substitution. People are replacing prescription medications with cannabis. The study reports that “findings indicate a potential harm reduction opportunity, as pharmaceutical drugs often come with dangerous side effects or—as with opioids—potential for misuse.”
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Studies like this show how important it is to expand cannabis research when it comes to treating specific problems people face like addiction, anxiety and sleep disorders because it is clear that medical cannabis could take pressures like addiction and inequitable access to insurance and mental healthcare off of society.
Just last year a study showing that medical marijuana reduces opioid use was published, showing promise for those who struggle or love someone who struggles with addiction. This same study also showed that cannabis use led to an increase in quality of life, something so important for recovering addicts.
“The high rate of cannabis use for chronic pain and the subsequent reductions in opioid use suggest that cannabis may play a harm-reduction role in the opioid overdose crisis, potentially improving the quality of life of patients and overall public health,” the study abstract says.
Anecdotally, many patients rave about the benefits they have seen from adult-use cannabis. It’s important to remember, that currently, Utah only has a medical marijuana program, not adult-use.
This article is not medical advice, you should always consult your doctor before stopping or starting any form of treatment.
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