News 12: Medical marijuana to be used to treat opioid use in NY

YONKERS – Officials say opioid use will now be one of 13 qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in New York.

According to the New York state Department of Health, medical marijuana has been found to be a less addictive but equally as relieving option.

Officials say in addition to cutting back on pain, medical marijuana will also lower the number of opioid overdoses in New York.

“Medical cannabis has a very important role in safely alleviating pain and especially chronic pain,” says Dr. Stephen Dahmer. He says states that have legalized medical marijuana have seen about a 25 percent reduction in opioid mortality rates.

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