Julie Bobitt, PhD and colleagues examined the viability of medical cannabis among older veterans relative to existing approaches. They compared cannabis, prescription opioids, and benzodiazepines use between older Veteran and non-Veterans, and identified outcomes of cannabis use among Veterans. Both groups reported similar levels of pain, quality of life, social satisfaction, and sleep quality. Veterans were more likely to use cannabis for mental health conditions while they reported lower use for pain-related conditions than non-Veterans. Veterans were less likely to use opioids and benzodiazepines compared to non-Veterans This work provides insights for clinicians and policy makers to consider whether cannabis can be a viable option to reduce or replace opioid and benzodiazepine use by older Veterans with chronic physical and mental health conditions.
Kang H, Hunniecutt J, Quintero Silva L, Kaskie B, Bobitt J. Biopsychosocial factors and health outcomes associated with cannabis, opioids and benzodiazepines use among older veterans. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2021 Jul 4;47(4):497-507. doi: 10.1080/00952990.2021.1903479. Epub 2021 Apr 21. PMID: 33881952.