Nearly 400,000 Americans have died of opioid-related causes since 2000, just slightly fewer than the number of American troops who died in World War II. That’s a jaw-dropping number, but fortunately, researchers have found an effective solution to treating addiction that could potentially save lives.
In a new study, researchers administered cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive ingredient in hemp and marijuana, to patients suffering from heroin addiction. What they found was that it reduced their cravings for the illicit drug, which is a big deal because the intense craving is said to drive drug use. On top of that, patients reported less anxiety after being administered CBD.
Many obstacles stand in the way of recovering addicts who want to get their hands on medications that work to reduce cravings, which is why they’re not widely used. CBD oil, however, is more widely available and seems to be just as effective in treating addiction. Although more research needs to be done, the researchers are optimistic about the implications of their latest study.
