Marijuana and CBD continue to be highlighted for their potential to alleviate opiate addiction

(Photo by Stacie DaPonte via Flickr. CC BY-SA 2.0)

Around 85% of American adults support the legalization of medicinal marijuana, with another 57% supporting the use of recreational marijuana according to polls by HealthDay and Harris Polling. Many advocates viewed medical marijuana as a potential alternative to ingestible opioids which are commonly prescribed for pain relief.

Opioids inhibit signals of pain that are transmitted to the brain, effectively relieving the symptoms of moderate to severe pain. Some common opioids include codeine, fentanyl, and morphine.

Similarly to many other drugs, continued usage of opioids results in building a tolerance. Without proper administration and observation, this can easily transform into dependence as people begin to experience withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms range from muscle pain, anxiety, and irritability.

It is of utmost importance that patients with opioid prescriptions are gradually weaned off the drug, as addiction leads to long term use and even abuse of opioids, which damages the patient’s health and often leads to the use of illicit substances such as heroin.

Out of control

The opioid crisis continues to claim lives (Photo by Maryland GovPics via Flickr. CC BY 2.0)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prescription opioid misuse costs the US $78.5 billion every year, resulting from costs involving health care, lost productivity, treatment for addiction, as well as criminal justice expenditures. There are over 115 casualties every day related to opioid use.

Over 33,000 Americans were killed by opioids in 2015, with another 2 million suffering from opioid abuse disorders. With around 22-29% of patients abusing prescription opioids, medicinal marijuana can serve as an effective and non-lethal alternative for those in need of medication for pain relief.

53% of adults believed that legalization of medicinal marijuana would result in less deaths stemming from opioid overdoses. Deana Percassi, managing director of the Harris Poll's public relations research practice, affirmed that many people advocated medicinal marijuana as an effective alternative to opioids. She stated, "Marijuana is seen as a way to ease the opioid crisis and even prevent opioid-related deaths."

In Illinois, a plan is in motion to allow doctors to freely prescribe medicinal marijuana to combat opiate abuse. The effort to promote medicinal marijuana strives to address the opioid crisis in the state, which has claimed 11,000 lives in 2008, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Deaths from opioid use doubled the number of fatalities resulting from car crashes in 2016.

The proposition would remove standard requirements for background checks and fingerprint scans, with many critics claiming that these restrictions typically prevented minorities and individuals with lower income from obtaining medicinal marijuana.

According to Kris Krane, former associate director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, “Drug law enforcement takes place more vigorously in lower income communities and communities of color.” He pointed out that many individuals with previous convictions for marijuana possession are those who need medicinal marijuana the most but are blocked off due to their criminal record.

Senator Don Harmon stated, “Opioid addiction takes the lives of thousands of Illinoisans every year. We should be open to any reasonable alternative treatment — and no one has ever died of a cannabis overdose.”

CBD may be the answer

The main cause for the lack of support for legalized marijuana was a concern that it would enable its widespread use, potentially even among children or pets. "Opposition to marijuana -- whether for medical or recreational use -- comes down to fear of it getting into the wrong hands," said Percassi.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is another type of cannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant. Cannabis contains several cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, the latter of which gives cannabis its psychoactive effects.

CBD is derived from natural hemp sources which contain less than 0.3% THC, making it more readily available and an increasingly popular alternative to marijuana. Many tests have been conducted on CBD, producing solid results in treating disorders such as epilepsy and Draven’s syndrome, as well as pain relief due to its anti-inflammation properties.

CBD also tackles opioid withdrawal by targeting the reward pathway, which is located in the center of the brain and releases dopamine when the body engages in beneficial behavior such as eating. Unfortunately, dangerous substances such as drugs can also be used to access the feel good sensations provided by dopamine, resulting in many people becoming addicted to opiates.

Studies were conducted that shows CBD’s ability to put a halt to the rewarding sensations provided by engaging the reward pathway. As many addictions operate in a similar manner, this highlighted the massive potential CBD had in treating other addictions such as cigarettes.

Helping combat opiate addiction

One company who has quickly become one of the pioneers of quality CBD products aimed at promoting wellness is PotNetwork Holdings, Inc.(OTCMKTS:POTN) Their subsidiary, Diamond CBD, provides an extensive list of CBD products such as edibles, oils, and vapes, backed by extensive testing and documentation.

POTN continues to increase awareness on the healing properties of CBD which can play a large role in combating the opioid crisis. It can effectively address chronic pain without the euphoric or sometimes paranoid feelings often associated with marijuana, nor is it highly addictive like opioids.

Their products can facilitate pain relief through various methods. Chill Gummies are ideal for relaxing or on the go, providing a solid dose of CBD for those who prefer edibles. The LT Pain Master Cream is endorsed by Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor, specifically designed to address chronic and intense pain associated with athletic injuries or soreness.

As CBD continues to gain the spotlight due to its massive potential to combat opiate abuse and other addictions, PotNetwork Holdings, Inc.(OTCMKTS:POTN) may very provide the solution through. thanks to their innovative products and proven ability to meet large demand.