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University Of British Columbia
Feb. 15, 2024
New findings from researchers at the University of British Columbia suggest that cannabis could play a role in addressing the ongoing opioid overdose crisis.
The work is published in the journal Addictive Behaviors.
The publication from Dr. Hudson Reddon, alongside UBC Okanagan's Dr. Zach Walsh and UBC Vancouver's Dr. M-J Milloy, observes that using cannabis is associated with decreased use of crystal methamphetamine among people at highest risk of overdose in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
About 45 percent of the study's participants reported using cannabis to manage their cravings for stimulant drugs in the last six months, including powder cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamines. A notable reduction in crystal meth use was observed among those who used cannabis for craving management. This association was not significant for crack cocaine users.
Dr. Reddon, the study's lead researcher, emphasized the potential of cannabis as a harm-reduction strategy.
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