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Addictions

Medical Marijuana and Addiction

Answered by Dr. Lani Chin, PsyD

Question

Is medical marijuana a safe medication for me if I have history of drug addiction and alcoholism. I have tried very hard for 15 years to stay clean and sober and I don't want to compound my health problems now with anything that will get me back to using. Of course my doc also wants me to consider opiates, but I am not going down that road until the pain is more than I can stand. I know where opiates take me and it's nowhere I want to go back to.

Medical marijuana has been used for pain management, however, it is still considered an illicit substance by law.  It would be a good idea to talk to your medical doctor about pain management options before using a substance that has been shown to be addictive.  Research has also shown a link to lung cancer which is a risk you would take by using the substance.  Have you considered other forms of alternative medicine?  There are other options such as chiropractic medicine, acupuncture, or meditation.  Again, it depends on what your medical condition is so a conversation with your medical doctor should take place to see your options are.  Good luck.

About the Expert

Dr. Lani Chin

PsyD

Los Angeles, United States of America

Specialties

Anger Management, Gay Lesbian Issues, Sex Therapy, Personality Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Compulsive Disorders, OCD, Addiction or Substance Abuse, Mood Disorders, Spirituality, Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence, Anxiety or Fears, Impulse Control Disorders, Relationship Issues, Loss or Grief, Eating Disorders, Depression, Women

License

my_license #PSY 24971