A team of Canadian researchers has found that people who use multiple drugs frequently turn to cannabis as a way to cut back on stimulants such as crystal methamphetamine.
According to NORML, the study surveyed 297 polydrug users and found that nearly half — 45% — reported using cannabis to help control their cravings for stimulants. Of that group, 78% said their stimulant use declined as a result.
Although cannabis was commonly associated with lower methamphetamine use, the researchers found no comparable reduction among participants who used cocaine on a daily basis.
The researchers concluded: "These findings indicate that cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings is a common harm reduction strategy and suggest that this may be an effective strategy to reduce stimulant use among some people who use unregulated drugs.
"In the absence of established pharmacotherapies for the treatment of stimulant-use disorders, further investigation of the harm reduction and therapeutic applications of cannabis use is warranted to address the harms of stimulant use."