According to studies, the United States consumes about 80 percent of the world’s total prescription opioids. The crisis resulting from this huge consumption is beyond comprehension and is now called the opioid epidemic.
In the last decade, over 500,000 people have lost their lives due to opioid abuse. As policymakers and relevant authorities scratch their heads in worry, there seems to be a solution.
CBD products made of cannabis compounds and cannabinoids are becoming increasingly popular as opioid replacements. Seeing the popularity of CBD among people who previously relied on opioid medication, numerous studies are also underway to determine CBD’s effectiveness.
It’s said that CBD, a non-psychoactive element of cannabis, is potentially capable of replacing opioids as a pain management solution.
Intrigued to learn more about this miracle medicine that may help prevent hundreds of deaths each day? Read this blog.
The Background
Before we divulge into details of how CBD is potentially replacing opioid prescription medicines, let’s look at the history of the two pain management substances.
CBD
CBD (cannabinoid) is a compound naturally found in the hemp plant. Known for its relaxing and healing properties, CBD has become increasingly popular ever since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized it. As of now, medical use of CBD is allowed in 37 states, whereas 19 states permit its recreational use.
A vast majority of people, however, use CBD oils and products for their pain relief properties especially those with chronic pain conditions.
Opioid Abuse in the US.
Opioids are the leading cause of drug abuse deaths in the US. While internationally, approximately 36 million people suffer from opioid addiction. Unfortunately, opioid-based medicines have been in use in the US for a long time and have now become a grave threat to the lives of Americans.
It’s feared that if opioid addiction and abuse isn’t curtailed, there may be over 1.2 million deaths in the US and Canada by 2029.
Why Cannabis-Based Products are Better than Opiates
As we told earlier, there has been a growing interest in research suggesting CBD as a replacement for opioids. But what makes cannabis better than opiate medicines? Here are a few factors.
Organic
Organic CBD products derived from U.S-grown hemp are legal for use in the US This makes CBD a far better product than synthetic opiates chemically developed in the labs.
Non-Addictive
Unlike opioids, CBD is not addictive. In fact, most CBD users prefer cannabinoid-based products owing to their non-psychoactive properties that help them deal with various conditions without causing a high. In contrast, opioid is a highly addictive substances, and relapse is quite common as well.
More Regulations
CBD is essentially more scrutinized by FDA and other regulatory authorities. While advocates of CBD term it unjust, it’s a good thing when it comes to public safety. However, opioids have not been scrutinized or regulated rigorously in the past, thus leading to the current epidemic.
Better Research
Owing to its unique nature and various unknown benefits, CBD products are a center of global research. The US in particular is also keen to learn more about CBD for pain thus it’s one of the most widely researched subjects. This means that if there are any side effects of CBD, they will soon come to the surface.
No Risk of Overdose
It’s unlikely for someone to overdose on CBD. In fact, one has to consume an enormous (and practically impossible) amount of CBD to be able to overdose on this substance.
Minimal Side Effects
CBD gummies, oils, and vapes all are popular due to their minimal side effects. People who seek a pain management solution without the countless side effects of opioids can now use CBD for its minimal adverse effects.
Long-Lasting Effects
Unlike opioid effects that quickly wear off, leaving the user needing more, CBD has a longer half-life. This means that people who use CBD for pain can go a few days with a single administration of CBD without needing another dose.
Multipurpose
While we currently look at CBD as a replacement for opioid-related pain management. There’s more to CBD goodness. The organic hemp flower based compound is also known for its anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and sleep-improvement properties.
What Does CBD Help With?
Albeit more research is underway to learn about CBD’s effectiveness and use, here’s what CBD is currently known to help with:
- Pain Management
- Anxiety
- Sleep Disorders
- Neurodegenerative Conditions
- Chronic Illnesses
- PTSD
- Inflammation
- Cancer Side Effects
- Heart Health
- Diabetes
- Seizures
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
How CBD Can Replace Opioids?
Organic, non-addictive, and drastically fewer side effects are some of the features of CBD that make it appealing to people using opioids for pain. Here are some of the pain conditions that CBD can help with and potentially replace opioids.
Arthritis
People with chronic pains such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can now rely on CBD products instead of opioids for their severe joint pains.
Fibromyalgia Pain
Fibromyalgia is one of the most severe pains known to the human body. According to a study, people with this severe form of pain are now using CBD instead of opiates to manage their condition.
Neuropathic Pain
Using CBD vapes, oil, and edibles can help relieve muscular and neuropathic pains. This is particularly beneficial for people who suffer injuries during an accident.
Multiple Sclerosis
According to another study, 88 percent of people reported that using CBD has helped them improve their quality of life. People with MS can now enjoy a better life with the help of CBD.
Start Your CBD Journey Here
CBD is a widely researched topic; however, more research, its countrywide legalization, and better controls are needed to make it a mainstream pain management solution.
If you are looking to try organic CBD gummies, CBD edibles, and premium hemp flower products, then reach out to us. At Mary Jane’s Bakery Co., we have a wide range of CBD products and Delta-8 THC oil. Visit our store now to buy CBD online.