One of the more restrictive medical marijuana programs in the United States might soon allow the use of MMJ as an alternative to opioids, a move that could provide a much-needed boost to the state’s cannabis businesses.
The New York health department plans to develop regulations giving people the choice of enrolling in the state’s medical cannabis program if they have been prescribed opioids, state Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said Monday.
Details are still being worked out, but Zucker’s agency cited research showing marijuana can reduce opioid use while eliminating the risk of overdose and reducing the risk of addiction.
New York’s program is restrictive for businesses in the sense that smokable marijuana is not allowed.