How CBD Treat Opioid Addiction: Is It a Promising Treatment?

Opioid addiction has become a major public health crisis in the United Kingdom and other countries. The abuse of prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl has led to widespread addiction and overdose deaths. The opioid epidemic has affected people of all ages and backgrounds, and it has been difficult to find effective treatments. However, there is a growing body of research that suggests that CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, may be a promising treatment for opioid addiction.

What is Opioid Addiction?

Opioid addiction is a chronic condition characterised by the compulsive use of opioids despite negative consequences. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illegal drugs like heroin and fentanyl. These drugs work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which reduces pain and produces a sense of euphoria. However, when taken in high doses or for long periods of time, opioids can cause physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction.

Symptoms of opioid addiction include:

Taking larger doses of opioids than prescribed
Difficulty reducing or stopping opioid use
Using opioids despite negative consequences
Spending a lot of time using opioids or recovering from their effects
Giving up important activities in favor of opioid use
Using opioids in dangerous situations

How CBD Treats Opioid Addiction?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that has been found to have potential therapeutic benefits for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and pain. CBD is thought to work by influencing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Recent research has suggested that CBD may also be useful in treating opioid addiction. In preclinical studies, CBD has been found to reduce the reward-seeking behaviour associated with addiction, as well as reduce withdrawal symptoms. CBD also has been found to help in reducing the craving and anxiety related to addiction.

In a randomised control trial, conducted by the University of New South Wales, CBD therapy was given to 42 individuals with opioid addiction. The results showed that CBD treatment reduced the number of opioid injections and craving for opioids, compared to the control group.

Another study, conducted by the New York University School of Medicine, observed a significant decrease in opioid cravings among those who were given CBD over a 12-week period.

Is CBD a Promising Treatment for Opioid Addiction?

While these findings are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which CBD may be effective in treating opioid addiction, and also to determine the optimal dosage and administration. However, the available evidence suggests that CBD may be a useful adjunctive therapy for treating opioid addiction and reducing the risk of relapse.

It is important to note that, while CBD may be helpful in treating opioid addiction, it should not be considered a replacement for traditional addiction treatment. Behavioural therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and other evidence-based treatments are still considered the most effective way to address opioid addiction.

Conclusion

Opioid addiction has become a major public health crisis, and traditional treatments have been largely ineffective in addressing it. Studies have shown that CBD therapy can help reduce the craving and withdrawal symptoms related to opioid addiction. While the findings are promising, more research is needed to understand the mechanisms by which CBD may be effective in treating opioid addiction and also to determine the optimal dosage and administration.

Please verify your age to enter.