Cannabis for addiction treatment

People with addiction have trouble stopping the use of a substance or behavior, like alcohol, prescription medications, or gambling, even when it causes harm. It affects the brain, making it hard for people to control cravings and behavior.

Researchers are exploring whether cannabis might help people reduce their use of addictive substances and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Research on cannabis for addiction treatment

Cannabinoids in cannabis affect the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a body-wide system that balances functions like mood, sleep, pain tolerance, and many brain functions. Researchers believe that the ECS plays a role in reward and addiction.

Scientists have studied how cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) might help people with various addictions, including substance use disorder (SUD) and gambling.

According to some studies, CBD could reduce intake and cravings for:

• Opioids
• Sedatives
• Alcohol

Tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC), another cannabinoid, may help with withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia. States with medical cannabis laws have seen a reduction in prescription medication use, suggesting that many people use medical cannabis as a substitute.

However, some experts are concerned that cannabis use could lead to other problems, including dependency and sleep issues. More research is needed to understand how cannabis can be used safely and effectively for addiction treatment.

Using cannabis for addiction treatment

People with addiction may use cannabis for different reasons. Some people use it to help ease withdrawal symptoms like nausea, restless legs, and depression. Others use it as a replacement for potentially harmful and more addictive substances like opioids or alcohol.

Whether cannabis works as an addiction treatment is unclear, with research showing mixed results. It also has some risks and side effects to consider. If you have an addiction and want to use cannabis, talk to your doctor for individualized guidance.

Benefits

According to research, medical cannabis has health benefits that can support people with addiction.

• Reduced cravings: Some studies show that CBD may lower cravings for addictive substances, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol.
• Eases withdrawal symptoms: Cannabis may help with nausea, anxiety, and trouble sleeping during withdrawal.
• Pain relief: Some people use cannabis to manage chronic pain, which may reduce reliance on opioids.
• Less harmful than some substances: Some people replace prescription opioids, alcohol, or other recreational substances with cannabis, which causes intoxication but generally has fewer risks and side effects.

Risks and side effects

Cannabis comes with some side effects and risks.

• Possible dependence: Some people may become dependent on cannabis, especially with frequent use, leading to cannabis use disorder (CUD).
• Memory and concentration problems: Cannabis can affect short-term memory and focus.
• Mood changes: Some people experience increased anxiety, paranoia, or mood swings.
• Impact on intake of other drugs: One study found that people who used medical cannabis did not decrease their use of sedatives or opioids. Other studies also show that cannabis use is associated with alcohol use.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary by state. Most states have legalized medical cannabis. To access medical cannabis, you need to receive a recommendation from a healthcare provider, and apply for a medical cannabis card through your state.

No states list addiction as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. However, in some states, opioid use disorder (OUD) is. People who use opioids for chronic pain may also qualify.

In some cases, caregivers may be able to obtain cannabis for minors.

More about addiction treatment

Addiction occurs when the brain’s reward system is affected by repeated substance use or behavior. Factors that may increase the risk of addiction include:

• Genetics
• Brain chemical imbalances
• Environmental factors

Over time, a person may feel a strong need to keep using the substance or repeat the behavior, even if it causes harm. Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, pain, and nausea can make quitting even more challenging. Addiction treatment focuses on therapy, managing cravings, and building healthier habits.

In 2020, 40.3 million people in the U.S. had a substance use disorder. Around 2.5 million people in the U.S. have a gambling disorder.

Other treatments for addiction treatment

Many people use a combination of treatments to overcome addiction.

Traditional therapies

Your doctor can help prescribe a treatment based on the type of addiction. Common addiction treatments include:

• Behavioral therapy: Helps people change habits and manage cravings
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Uses medications like methadone or buprenorphine to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Support groups: Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide community support

Withdrawing from some substances, including alcohol and benzodiazepines, can cause dangerous symptoms and require medical supervision.

Natural and alternative therapies

Your doctor may suggest some natural treatments, including:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity may reduce stress and cravings
• Mindfulness and meditation: These practices may help improve focus and control over one’s emotions, although evidence is limited
• Nutritional support: A healthy diet may support brain function and recovery
• Herbal supplements: Plants like chamomile may promote relaxation

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for addiction 

Cannabis may help some people manage addiction withdrawal symptoms and rely less on harmful substances. However, it’s important to use it responsibly and talk to a healthcare professional before starting cannabis treatment.

If you’re considering cannabis as a treatment for your addiction, contact a healthcare provider at Leafwell for more guidance. Our team of telehealth doctors is here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some FAQs regarding medical cannabis for addiction.

Can CBD help with withdrawal and addiction?

Some research shows that CBD may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid, alcohol, stimulant, and sedative use, but more studies are needed.

Is cannabis addictive?

While cannabis is less addictive than opioids or alcohol, some people develop a dependence, especially with frequent use.

Is marijuana a good replacement for alcohol?

Cannabis and alcohol affect the body in two different ways. Whether or not medical cannabis can be a good replacement for alcohol depends on your personal needs and health.

Are there cannabis-based medications for addiction treatment?

No. There are no FDA-approved cannabis medications for addiction treatment.

Is cannabis a gateway drug?

Cannabis has been called a “gateway drug” by some anti-drug organizations. Studies show mixed results, and there’s little evidence that using cannabis leads to hard drug use.

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