For over 100 years cannabis has been scorned for being a gateway drug. Recent studies are suggesting cannabis may actually be the opposite: an exit drug. This means patients are able to use cannabis to reduce their need for drugs such as opioids, benzodiazipines, SSRIs, and, to a lesser extent, even alcohol and tobacco.
The largest benefit of cannabis comes with opioids. Clinical research indicates that cannabinoids actually increase the sensitivity of the body’s opioid receptors. This makes a smaller dose of opioids more effective at relieving pain. At the very least, patients won’t build tolerance to opioids as quickly and can keep doses low. In a number of cases, patients have actually ceased opioid use altogether because cannabinoids can be effective pain killers as well.
Many patients indicate they feel that cannabis is safer than opiods or benzodiazepines. In fact, a majority of patients feel that the side-effects of cannabis are more acceptable than those of other prescription medications. We’re fortunate here in Missouri; chronic pain is in the list of qualifying conditions for treatment by medicinal cannabis. Article 14 of our constitution specifically allows for cannabis to be used as an alternative to potentially addictive medications where appropriate.
I can only hope that physicians are paying attention. The potential for reducing addiction and possible substitution for other prescriptions has the ability to positively affect the general health of the public.
Further Reading:
MarijuanaMoment.net
National Library of Medicine
Healer.com
Americans for Safe Access