An investigation in Canada, led by researchers Philippe Lucas and Zach Walsh, is questioning if there is a connection between cannabis use and prescriptions being dropped.
The investigation surveyed 271 patients purchasing medical cannabis from Canadian LP Tilray who are enrolled in Canada’s MMPR program.
The investigation found that 63% of respondents reported using cannabis in place of prescription medications.
Lucas and Walsh learned that 30% of respondents replaced opioids with cannabis, 16% replaced benzodiazepines, and 12% replaced antidepressants.
According to 39% of the patients, the reason for the switch was “less adverse side effects.” 27% responded that cannabis was safer and 16% believed it was more effective in treating their symptoms.
The authors wrote, “In light of the growing rate of morbidity and mortality associated with these prescription medications, cannabis could play a significant role in reducing the health burden of problematic prescription drug use.”
