Medical Cannabis to Reduce Alcohol and Drug Use

Medical cannabis is increasingly being used to relieve various health conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But did you know that it can also play a role in reducing the use of alcohol, opioids, and other substances?

Combating addiction with medical cannabis

Medical cannabis plays a harm-reduction role by serving as an effective alternative to reduce the use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. It replaces the substances to which a person is addicted. Cannabis alleviates withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, and nausea. These effects are all common during withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, and even tobacco.

Effects on the endocannabinoid system

Cannabis acts on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, pain, and addictive behaviors. Certain compounds in cannabis, including CBC, possess anxiolytic properties and effects that alleviate symptoms of depression. They help reduce the urge to use, compulsive cravings, and withdrawal symptoms; they have a protective effect on the nervous system; and they modulate the reward circuits associated with addiction.

Real benefits

A Canadian study found that 43.5% of patients using medical cannabis significantly reduced their alcohol consumption. Another study shows similar results, with a 40% decrease in tobacco use following treatment with medical cannabis. This trend is also observed with opioids: many patients report a significant reduction in their use after starting cannabis-based treatment.

At the SCM Clinic, we are proud to witness these successes. One of our specialists briefly shares the story of one of his patients:

“A client came to us for treatment of severe PTSD. This condition had led to multiple addictions, including drugs, alcohol, and, most notably, compulsive gambling. High-dose CBD treatment helped him significantly. After starting high-dose CBD treatment, noticeable changes occurred: in just 4–5 months, the patient stopped gambling, barely drank at all, and was visibly feeling better mentally, physically, and emotionally. It’s because of these successes and the help we provide that we love our work.”

This type of transformation, while individual, illustrates the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis within a clinical care setting.

Essential medical care

Medical cannabis treatment requires personalized support to ensure a tailored and safe approach. The SCM Clinic helps you maximize the benefits of this therapeutic tool while minimizing risks. Contact us to learn more about our approach and services, and to schedule your first in-clinic consultation!