Dr. Howard Smith Oncall

Vidcast:  https://youtu.be/tjCw6J7GYZk   A new cannabis-based drug can effectively treat those addicted to marijuana.  An Australian study just published in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that nabiximols, a CBD-THC combo medication marketed as Sativex™, can not only help weed users quit by reducing withdrawal symptoms, but also diminish their chances of relapse.   The University of Sydney’s Drug & Alcohol Services followed 128 patients taking Sativex over a 12 week period.  This drug is administered by spraying it under the tongue once every waking hour.  Those using the active drug versus a control inactive liquid spray consumed significantly less cannabis, were not bothered by withdrawal cravings, and maintained a reduced using pattern over a longer period of time.   Sativex is the first cannabis-based drug that effectively helps users off marijuana.  The fact that such a drug is necessary in the first place should be a wake-up call to those who proclaim weed to be completely harmless.   Nicholas Lintzeri