See What Scientists Believe The Answer To Be
A study released by the scientists at Indiana University have been hard at work linking chemicals derived from Cannabidiol (CBD) to reversal of deadly opioid impacts on the brain. Currently, they have identified 15 chemicals derived from CBD, one of the primary compounds in cannabis, that have shown to reverse the impact that drugs like fentanyl play in the brain of humans that take it. They have even found these CBD chemicals to be more effective at combatting these types of overdoses than the popular anti-overdose medication, Narcan.
What Does This Mean
The linking of CBD to fighting the fentanyl crisis has been called a scientific breakthrough at a time that the opioid epidemic seems to be ballooning across America. In 2021, over 6,000 Americans per month were dying due to opioid overdoses, most of which were linked to the use of fentanyl. This is just the latest way researchers have begun to apply cannabinoids to therapeutics in laboratory settings. While there’s still much work to be done for this application researchers hope to begin the process of studying CBD chemicals for use in this way.
Narcan vs CBD
Narcan, also known by its popular brand name Naxolone, works to block opioid receptors in the brain which stops an overdose. Fentanyl is so powerful that individuals overdosing on this drug require multiple doses of Narcan be administered to stop overdosing. As opioids continue to get stronger and Narcan waning in effectiveness looking for alternatives seems to make sense. CBD chemicals could break the molecules in fentanyl that binds to the brain, reversing an overdose. Researchers will continue to test and identify whether they work synergistically or individually to save lives. Regardless of the result one thing researchers can agree on is that more potent overdose medications will result in less American deaths.
About CBD & It’s Uses
Long known to have a variety of wellness benefits, CBD can be used for issues ranging from mental health to muscle pain. This is due to it’s ability to relax muscles and tissues, as well as reduce feelings of anxiety. Federally legal, CBD and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids have found their way into products from topical balms to oral tinctures and gummies. CBD can even be smoked to offer wellness benefits.
Other Medical Applications For CBD Chemicals
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved cannabis extracts for therapeutic uses. Early in 2023 the FDA gave the green light to cannabis extract compound, Epidiolex. This medication is now available to treat seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut in people aged two or older.
Conclusion
While more research and tests are needed, early data shows that 15 CBD chemicals offers the potential to be a life saving anti-overdose option. Add this to the long list of benefits offered by CBD. As other medical and therapeutic applications are approved by the FDA the full potential of cannabinoids continues to be unlocked.
