New research reveals that over 60% of people with arthritis and similar conditions who use medical marijuana substitute it for other medications, such as NSAIDs, opioids, sleep aids, and muscle relaxants. Many even report being able to reduce or completely stop using those medications.
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Published by the American College of Rheumatology, the study highlights that cannabis users found fewer side effects, better symptom relief, and reduced withdrawal concerns compared to traditional medications. THC products, in particular, were associated with greater symptom improvements in areas like pain, sleep, anxiety, and joint stiffness.
Conducted by researchers from the University of Michigan Medical School, McGill University, and the University of Buffalo, the study suggests that a substantial number of people with rheumatic diseases are turning to cannabis to manage their symptoms.
Study Findings
The study gathered data through an anonymous online survey of U.S. and Canadian residents, promoted through social media and arthritis organizations. Of the 1,727 respondents, 763 were current cannabis users. Among them, 62.5% reported using medical cannabis as a substitute for other medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (54.7%), opioids (48.6%), sleep aids (29.6%), and muscle relaxants (25.2%).
The primary reasons for substitution were improved symptom management and reduced side effects. Two-thirds of users had inflammatory rheumatic diseases, and many dealt with conditions like fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and mechanical spinal pain.
The most common method of cannabis use was inhalation, despite the potential respiratory risks. However, the rapid relief provided by inhalation, particularly for pain, made it a preferred choice for many. THC-containing products were the most widely used, suggesting the need for THC in effective pain management for some patients.
Daily Use and Ongoing Research
More than half of the participants reported using medical cannabis daily, indicating the need for consistent symptom management. The study authors noted that there is limited research on cannabis use among patients with rheumatic conditions, especially those who may face unique challenges due to age, the use of multiple medications, and a high symptom burden.
This study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that people with various conditions are turning to medical marijuana as a substitute for traditional medications. For example, a recent study in the Journal of Nurse Practitioners found that medical marijuana helped reduce prescription drug use and improved well-being among adults with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain.
A separate study of military veterans found that over 90% of those using medical marijuana reported improved quality of life, with many using it as an alternative to over-the-counter and prescription medications. Other research has shown that older adults using medical marijuana experience significant improvements in health and well-being.
As more studies emerge, it’s becoming clear that cannabis is playing an increasingly important role in helping patients manage their symptoms and reduce reliance on traditional medications, including opioids.
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