Cannabis Laws, COVID-19, and Chronic Pain: Surprising Connections Unveiled
Enactment of medical and recreational cannabis laws in the US has been linked to an increase in the prevalence of cannabis use disorder (CUD), particularly among older adults with chronic pain, according to a study of US veterans. The associations between cannabis laws and CUD were stronger among patients with chronic pain compared to those without. The study highlights the need for screening and evidence-based treatments for cannabis use disorder in vulnerable populations, such as patients with chronic pain.