By William Brown, Certified Cannabis Educator

Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach that aims to reduce the negative consequences of substance use and improve the health and well-being of people who use drugs. One of the strategies of harm reduction (1) is to offer safer alternatives (2) to more harmful substances, such as opioids, alcohol, cocaine, or nicotine. Cannabis may, and seems to be, one of these alternatives.

Cannabis contains over 100 different compounds called cannabinoids (not to mention, a slew of other beneficial compounds) which interact with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in the body. The Endocannabinoid System is involved in regulating various physiological and psychological processes, such as pain, mood, appetite, memory, and immune function. One of the most studied cannabinoids is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the intoxicating effects of Cannabis and has been shown to help with pain relief, nausea, as a sleep aid, stress, etc. Cannabidiol (CBD) which is non-intoxicating, but psychoactive, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective properties, to name a few.

In addition to these potential benefits, Cannabis may also have some advantages over other substances in terms of its safety profile. Cannabis has a low risk of overdose, as there are no known cases of fatal Cannabis intoxication in humans. Cannabis also has a low risk of physical dependence and withdrawal syndrome compared to other substances. Moreover, as an example, Cannabis can be consumed in different ways that reduce the harms associated with smoking, such as vaporizing or eating.

Cannabis is a complex and controversial substance that has both benefits and risks (very minimal to a select strata of people) as a harm reduction tool. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms, effects, and outcomes of Cannabis use in different populations and settings, however, the existing evidence suggests and shows that Cannabis is a viable option for some people who use drugs to reduce their harm and improve their quality of life.

ECN Editor’s note: Cannabis may not be suitable or effective for everyone, and its use should be tailored to each person's needs, preferences, and goals. Cannabis should also be used in conjunction with other harm-reduction strategies, such as education, counseling, testing, treatment, and recovery support.

For further information, education, and assistance in utilizing Cannabis as a Harm Reduction tool, please reach out to me directly, or to anyone else in our directory.

References

1. Gumas, Evan  D, and Jesse C Baumgartner. “U.S. Overdose Deaths Remain Higher than in Other Countries - How Harm-Reduction Programs Could Help.” U.S. Overdose Deaths - How Harm-Reduction Programs Could Help | Commonwealth Fund, 22 June 2023, www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2023/us-overdose-deaths-remain-higher-other-countries-how-harm-reduction-programs-could-help. 

2. Dawson, David A & Persad, Clare. (2022). Targeting the endocannabinoid system in the treatment of addiction disorders. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences. 19. 64-074. 10.30574/gscbps.2022.19.2.0175. 

About William Brown:

William owns and operates WbC Therapeutics, a company based on the therapeutic application of Cannabis as medicine. He is also a patient and authorized caregiver in his state. William is a certified Cannabis educator and coach.

Contact William at WbC Therapeutics through the e-mail link below to learn more about his services.

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.