New York Marijuana Patients Using Fewer Opioids, Says Data

The journal Mental Health Clinician recently published data indicating that New York medical marijuana patients are using less opioids. They’re also spending less on prescription medications. GPI Clinical Research and University of Buffalo worked together to assess trends in medical marijuana use and prescription drug use following medical marijuana program enrollment.

The average amount spent on opioid medications decreased by 32-percent, NORML reports. This represents a decline in opioid pill and fentanyl patch use. Several other medical marijuana-legal states have reported similar findings.

The study authors said, “After three months treatment, medical cannabis improved [subjects’] quality of life, reduced pain and opioid use, and lead to cost savings.”