Canadian Study Reveals Cannabis as a Substitute for Legal Drugs

A recent Canadian study published in the International Journal of Drug Policy has shed light on the potential of cannabis to serve as a substitute for more harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and certain pharmaceuticals. This research aligns with the growing perception of cannabis as a 'de-escalation drug,' challenging the long-held belief that it acts as a gateway to more dangerous drugs

The study, involving 271 participants with authorization to purchase therapeutic cannabis, is one of the first to explore the synergy between cannabis use and the reduction of other substance dependencies. According to researchers Phillipe Lucas and Zach Walsh, cannabis is increasingly seen as an effective treatment for both mental and physical health issues, offering an alternative to traditional medications

Participants in the study completed a comprehensive online questionnaire, revealing that 63% use cannabis in place of prescription drugs, with 30% substituting it for opioids. Additionally, 16% of these users replace benzodiazepines with cannabis for sleep, and 12% use it instead of antidepressants. The study also found that 25% of participants use cannabis as a substitute for alcohol, while 12% replace tobacco with it

Despite these promising findings, the study leaves some questions unanswered, such as why 42% of participants continue to purchase cannabis from illegal markets despite having medical prescriptions. The research also lacks details on the frequency and methods of cannabis consumption among participants, indicating areas for future investigation

While cannabis offers potential benefits as a substitute for more harmful substances, it is important to note that it still carries the risk of addiction. Although it may not lead to physical dependence, long-term use can result in psychological addiction, underscoring the need for careful consideration in its application as a therapeutic alternative