Almost 30 U.S. states and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the territories of Guam, and Puerto Rico, legally permit marijuana use for medical purposes. This is possible after a debate that has signified the use of marijuana for certain conditions. And one of those is about marijuana maintenance for addiction treatment.
“What is addiction actually about?” Well, it is a kind of long-term brain’s malfunction. This affects motivation, rewards, and memory systems. It’s all about how your body wants a drug or habit, particularly if it leads to an obsessive search for “reward” with little concern for the consequences.
What is Marijuana Maintenance?
It is a concept that refers to the practice of using cannabis as a substitute for more harmful substances, typically alcohol or opioids, in an attempt to reduce the negative consequences associated with these substances. Moreover, this approach is often considered a form of harm reduction, a strategy aimed at minimizing the adverse effects of drug use without necessarily requiring complete abstinence.
So, can marijuana be used to treat addiction? It can! In certain cases, using marijuana to treat addiction can be considered. The use of marijuana for addiction treatment involves employing the substance to reduce cravings for other substances during recovery.
Understanding the Components of Marijuana
Marijuana has two types of compounds, each of which may have distinct effects:
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a kind of non-psychoactive element of the plant “cannabis”. It contributes to its pharmacological effects without causing a high. Moreover, it is the part of the medication that has been researched for the treatment of addiction.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive component of marijuana that provides you with a feeling, and it looks appealing for recreational usage.
How is the treatment of addiction using marijuana approached differently?
It is often addressed quite differently than other common drug treatments (that seem abused). Someone who is addicted to marijuana does not show addiction symptoms similarly to someone who is addicted to alcohol or heroin. That is why, rather than the traditional methods of a treatment program, professionals select to follow the path of marijuana maintenance.
Marijuana addiction frequently begins as a sign of self-medicating for other underlying conditions. Professional counseling helps an individual securely get to the source of these problems and work through them. Moreover, they can even help with getting the necessary drugs if necessary.
When it comes to marijuana addiction, not all insurance companies will pay for therapy. However, counseling programs might be expensive, but with the right research, you can find reasonable solutions.
Navigating Challenges in Marijuana Treatment
Starting marijuana treatment for addiction can come with challenges, especially for those with a long history of use. It’s common for someone with addiction to experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, increased cravings, and difficulty sleeping.
While these symptoms can lead to relapse, they are also manageable. Overcoming them requires dedication. Thus, a solid support system of friends and family, and a reputable addiction treatment facility with experienced professionals.
The encouraging news is that you don’t have to face this journey alone. Numerous resources are available, including licensed agencies specializing in addiction recovery. Each person and situation is unique, and these agencies understand the need for personalized treatment strategies. Moreover, they can provide the necessary information and support to help you successfully use marijuana as part of your addiction recovery plan.
The Controversy with Marijuana Maintenance
Schrank provides maintenance programs and cannabis detox treatments to help reduce cocaine addiction and assist those seeking to quit drugs. He claims to have treated approximately 50 patients using this method over the years and anticipates treating more in the future. “Increasing numbers of people are seeking treatment with this approach, rather than relying solely on traditional systems. Cannabis can greatly aid patients in managing pain and other health conditions, or it can enhance their overall safety,” Schrank stated, citing research findings.
The use of marijuana as a treatment modality for reducing cocaine addiction and assisting in quitting other drugs has been a subject of significant debate. While proponents like Schrank advocate for its efficacy, citing the benefits of cannabis in managing pain and enhancing safety, numerous studies and articles highlight the potential risks and concerns associated with this approach.
Potential Risks and Concerns
- Gateway hypothesis: Cannabis may act as a gateway to more potent drugs by normalizing drug use behaviors.
- Addiction and dependence: Cannabis can be addictive, leading to cannabis use disorder (CUD). Treating addiction with an addictive substance presents ethical and medical challenges.
- Mental health implications: Chronic cannabis use is linked to mental health issues. Thus, raising concerns for those using Marijuana to treat addiction.
- Cognitive impairments: Extended marijuana use can impair memory, attention, and executive functioning, which are crucial for recovery from substance abuse.
- Lack of standardized dosage and administration: During marijuana maintenance, strains and dosages vary widely, leading to inconsistent therapeutic outcomes compared to standardized pharmaceutical medications.
Evidence and Research Findings
While Schrank cites research supporting the benefits of cannabis for managing pain and improving safety, the broader scientific community remains divided. Some studies do suggest that cannabinoids can help in pain management and reduce opioid use. However, these benefits must be weighed against the potential for misuse and the risks associated with long-term cannabis use.
A review published in the Addiction Journal highlights that while using marijuana might reduce the use of more harmful substances in the short term, it does not address the underlying issues of addiction and can lead to sustained cannabis dependence.
The use of marijuana to treat cocaine addiction and other substance use disorders presents a complex array of benefits and risks. While there may be some therapeutic potential in specific contexts, the dangers highlighted by numerous articles and studies cannot be ignored.
The potential for cannabis to act as a gateway drug, its addictive properties, and the mental and cognitive health risks it poses, all warrant cautious consideration. As such, further rigorous, longitudinal research is needed to fully understand the implications of this treatment approach and to develop standardized protocols that maximize benefits while minimizing harm.
Find Clarity and Support in Understanding Marijuana Maintenance
At Retreat of Broward, we understand that navigating marijuana treatment for addiction can be a confusing and challenging journey. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s explore your questions and concerns together, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your choices.
Reach out to us today, and let’s take this journey toward clarity in finding answers to the question, “What is marijuana maintenance?”.
