The use of medical cannabis as a substitution for prescription opioids and other substances is a topic of growing interest. As the opioid epidemic continues to impact communities across the country, many individuals are seeking alternative pain management options, and medical cannabis is one potential option.

A study published, by the Journal of Substance Use, examines the prevalence of medical cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs and its impact on the use of other prescription medications. Four databases (Medline, Embase, PsychINFO, and Global Health) were searched to identify studies that evaluate medical cannabis use as a substitute for prescription drugs in adult participants using cannabis for medicinal purposes. Of the 493 studies identified, 27 were included in the final analysis. The pooled percentage of the prevalence of substituting medical cannabis for one or more prescription drugs was 60.0% (95% CI; 50%–70%). The most common reasons for using medical cannabis were chronic pain and mental health conditions, and the most commonly substituted drug classes were narcotics/opioids, anxiolytics, and antidepressants. Most studies found that medical cannabis use decreased the use of prescription drugs.

However, the use of medical cannabis as a substitution for prescription opioids and other substances is still a controversial topic, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine the appropriate dosing and formulation for these conditions. Additionally, there are potential risks associated with cannabis use, including the potential for addiction and other adverse effects.

In conclusion, while initial research suggests that medical cannabis may have potential benefits as a substitution for prescription opioids and other substances, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine its safety and efficacy in this population.