The battle for marijuana legalization still continues. In an effort to further support medical marijuana, several reports have come out with five prescription drugs that can literally be replaced by cannabis.
In fact, a study published in the Drug and Alcohol Review journal found that more and more people are using the organic substance as a substitute for prescription medication, alcohol, and other illicit drugs.
According to ATTN:
"Of the 473 adult cannabis users surveyed by the Centre for Addictions Research of British Columbia, more than 86 percent of respondents reported giving up one or more of the substance for pot, with the majority (80.8 percent) forgoing pharmaceuticals for the non-toxic alternative. Those under 40 were also more likely to substitute all three for cannabis, demonstrating its dynamic appeal for both recreational and medical purposes."
Here are five prescription drugs that cannabis can actually replace:
Vicodin (Pain Killer)
Several studies have found that marijuana has been effective in treating patients who suffer from chronic pain. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that 44 Americans die every single day from overdose of these painkillers.
Xanax (Anti-Anxiety)
Xanax is often used to treat patients who suffer from anxiety. Not everyone can treat anxiety with marijuana. In fact, smoking cannabis for some people can cause acute anxiety and paranoia. However, the effects are linked with the type or strain of weed that is consumed.
Sativa strains are often associated with cerebral highs - which can stimulate anxiety, most especially for users who don't frequently use the drug. However, indica strains have revealed to reduce anxiety.
Adderall (Stimulant)
Similar to tranquilizers, substituting marijuana for stimulant prescription drugs vary depending on the strain. Those who intend to use marijuana as an alternative for these stimulants will have to consume sativa strains, as they have shown to be more effective in treating both ADHD and ADD.
Ambien (Sleeping Aid)
Using marijuana to help induce sleep is one of the most common uses of cannabis. Studies and anecdotal reports have suggested that pot is much safer in treating insomnia, as well as being similarly effective than prescription drugs like Ambien.
Zoloft (Anti-Depressant)
Along with several studies, a lot of medical marijuana patients have noticed that cannabis can actually be an effective treatment for depression. Although it varies from patient to patient, research has found that smoking marijuana has less side effects than people using anti-depressants.
