Cannabidiol can cure crack addiction, Brazilian study reveals

Treatment of crack users with cannabidiol (CBD) has shown better results in reducing addiction and adverse effects than conventional medications used in psychosocial alcohol and drug centers. The conclusion is part of a pioneering study conducted by researchers at the University of Brasilia (UnB).

Cannabidiol has shown promising results

The research involved 73 users who were randomly assigned, by drawing lots, into two groups: 37 were part of the control group and 36 of the CBD group. The first received conventional medications used in crack addiction. They are: fluoxetine (antidepressant), valproic acid (mood stabilizer) and clonazepam (anxiolytic) and a placebo oil to mimic CBD.

The CBD group received cannabidiol oil (50 mg/ml CBD), without THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, which is one of the main psychoactive components of the plant) and three placebo tablets, which simulated traditional medicines.

Participants visited once a week, for ten weeks, to receive a drug kit, answer questionnaires about their use of crack and other drugs, be interviewed by a psychosocial team and a doctor, as well as undergo a test toxicology of urine, which was analyzed by the Criminalistic Institute of the Civil Police of the Federal District.

The results show that CBD can alleviate the primary symptoms reported by participants, such as lack of appetite, difficulty reducing crack use, and feelings of poor health. The group that used cannabidiol also showed better results in reducing crack use and fewer adverse events than the control group.

These side effects, such as constipation, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, memory problems, poor concentration, and blurred vision, may be even more noticeable in people with crack addiction due to excessive dosing and combining these drugs. Furthermore, studies indicate that they contribute to low treatment adherence for crack addicts in health services.

Challenges for research

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Source: Olhar Digital