Cannabis addiction is a significant issue in the UK, with a considerable number of individuals struggling with this form of substance misuse. Despite common misconceptions about the safety of cannabis, it is addictive and can lead to negative consequences on physical and mental health. In the UK, cannabis remains classified as an illicit Class B drug under The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, with severe penalties for possession, supply, and production. The prevalence of cannabis addiction is notable, with around 11% of users developing an addiction, a figure that rises to 16% for those who started using cannabis during their teenage years. Seeking professional help for cannabis addiction is crucial to address the compulsion and negative impacts associated with its misuse.
In recent medical research, a fascinating connection has emerged between two medications, Ozempic and Wegovy, and a reduced risk of cannabis use disorder. These drugs, both containing the compound semaglutide, have shown promising results in mitigating the development and relapse of cannabis use disorder in individuals compared to other diabetes or obesity medications.
A retrospective cohort study, detailed in a publication in Nature, shed light on this intriguing association. The study followed individuals prescribed semaglutide and found that they exhibited a significantly lower likelihood of developing cannabis use disorder compared to those on alternative obesity medications. Moreover, for individuals with a history of cannabis use disorder, the relapse rates were notably lower among those taking semaglutide.
Semaglutide, as a GLP-1 agonist, is known for its appetite-reducing properties and its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. These characteristics may play a role in its potential impact on substance use disorders like cannabis use disorder. While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, there are indications that semaglutide could influence pathways related to cravings and addictive behaviours.
The implications of these findings are profound. They suggest that Ozempic and Wegovy, through their active ingredient semaglutide, could offer a new avenue for addressing cannabis use disorder. Further research, particularly through clinical trials, will be crucial to solidify these initial observations and determine the full extent of semaglutide's effectiveness in this context.
In conclusion, the emerging data on the relationship between Ozempic, Wegovy, and a reduced risk of cannabis use disorder present an exciting prospect for individuals struggling with this condition. As research progresses, these medications may prove to be valuable tools in supporting individuals affected by cannabis addiction disorder.
Seeking professional help for cannabis addiction is crucial to address the compulsion and negative impacts associated with its misuse. Treatment options for cannabis addiction in the UK often involve a combination of therapy, counselling, support groups, and in some cases, medication to manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health disorders. It is essential for individuals struggling with cannabis addiction to reach out to healthcare professionals or addiction specialists for tailored treatment plans that address their specific needs and promote long-term recovery.
References:
- Freeman, T. P., & Winstock, A. R. (2024). Examining the profile of high-potency cannabis and its association with severity of cannabis dependence. Translational Psychiatry, 14(5), 1-10. Nature
- UK Addiction Treatment Group. (n.d.). Cannabis Addiction. Retrieved from UKAT
- Delamere Health Ltd. (n.d.). Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Addiction. Retrieved from Delamere
- Priory Group. (n.d.). Cannabis Addiction Treatment. Retrieved from Priory Group
- National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Getting Help for Drug Addiction. Retrieved from NHS
- Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs. (2024). Reclassifying cannabis to Class C under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Retrieved from UK Government
