The idea of using cannabis in recovery has recently sparked a lot of debate. Some people argue that the substance is intoxicating and might therefore trigger the addiction being treated or that the use of the substance is a symptom of continued addiction. Those in support of the use of marijuana during rehab argue that non-compulsive and responsible marijuana use is the opposite of addiction and that it has the potential of helping in the management of opioid use disorders such as craving and withdrawal symptoms. The introduction of CBD has complicated the issue even further.
What’s CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in marijuana and hemp, alongside THC. The latter is responsible for the intoxicating effect of marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, does not cause a high.
This clearly proves that the objection to CBD comes from the fact that it’s derived from marijuana, but not the compound itself. Scientific studies have shown that CBD has a myriad of medical benefits. For instance, the FDA approved CBD for the treatment of seizures, a treatment sold under the name Epidiolex.
Even though seizures is the only FDA-approved use for the drug, studies continue to show that CBD has the potential to help with a host of health and wellness issues. Some people believe CBD can help with anxiety management. This has been backed with studies showing the efficacy of CBD in the treatment of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Other benefits include CBD’s pain-relieving effects.
What has made CBD so popular is the fact that it delivers all these benefits without causing a euphoric high. Cannabidiols are non-intoxicating and do not affect the brain, hence the numerous medicinal properties. The compound does not activate the brain receptors responsible for euphoric effects caused by THC.
Similar to over-the-counter antidepressants, CBD alters the brain chemistry slightly to relieve anxiety or pain without triggering euphoria.
How will this Impact You Recovery?
Some people will feel that the use of prescribed antidepressants might hurt their recovery because they continue relying on drugs. Others are more liberal and recognize the fact we rely on a lot of substances in our daily lives.
However, if your use of the substance is neither compulsive nor continued despite the negative impacts, then it does not meet the criteria for addiction. Since CBD does not cause euphoria, will not lead to that kind of use, and does not attract negative, you should feel pretty comfortable using CBD for pain, anxiety, depression, or any other issue that you may be dealing with during recovery.
Does CBD Show On Drug Tests?
Drug tests such as urinalysis test for the psychoactive compound, THC. Since CBD is a different metabolite, it will not cause a positive test for THC. Nonetheless, since the two compounds are derived from the same plant, CBD could potentially contain traces of THC, about 0.3%.
The THC concentration is so negligible to show in a drug test. You will hear some people argue that the low concentrations of THC build up with time when one is a regular CBD consumer, subsequently leading to a positive drug test. This is, however, anecdotal. The current official state is that CBD from reputable growers and manufacturers will not affect your drug test results.
Is CBD Legal?
The regulatory status of CBD is currently complex. It’s not legal. It is derived from marijuana, which is an FDA scheduled drug – they claim the schedule covers all products derived from cannabis. The same product becomes legal when the THC compound is removed.
The THC-free cannabis version is known as hemp, which is legal under the 2014 Farm Bill. The DEA’s attitude towards CBD is that for it be legal, it must be hemp-extracted. It is not actually legal, but it’s tolerated. This is why you will find it on store shelves across the country.
For you to stay on the right side of the law during recovery, you might have to stay away from CBD for compliance. But rest assured that you will not attract a charge for bringing a bottle of CBD to your recovery facility.
It is important to note that addiction treatment facilities have different rules and regulations. Some will allow their patients to use CBD during recovery, while others will prohibit it. Be sure to ask your facility about their take on CBD before enrolling with them.
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