Dr. Ken Finn: The Truth About Marijuana and Pain Management
Episode Overview
Marijuana is not an effective substitute for opioids. Legalisation in Colorado has led to increased drug-related overdoses. Marijuana use is prevalent in teen suicides. Adolescents' emergency room visits have increased since legalisation. Understanding the real risks of marijuana use is crucial.
"Marijuana is not an opioid substitute at all, and it's not that great as a pain reliever", says Dr. Ken Finn.
Dr. Kenneth Finn joins The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return to discuss the complexities of marijuana use, particularly its role as a pain medication and its potential adverse effects on young adults. Dr. Finn, a seasoned pain management specialist from Colorado, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. He shares his journey into this field, driven by the alarming increase in patients using both opioids and marijuana. Dr.
Finn's evidence-based approach challenges the common belief that marijuana is an effective substitute for opioids, providing compelling data and personal anecdotes to support his stance. The episode sheds light on the impact of marijuana legalisation in Colorado, correlating it with a rise in drug-related overdoses, particularly opioids. Dr. Finn discusses how the de facto legalisation of marijuana in 2009 and its subsequent recreational legalisation in 2014 have contributed to a deteriorating public health scenario.
He highlights disturbing trends such as the prevalence of marijuana in teen suicides and its link to increased emergency room visits among adolescents. Dr. Finn also touches on the broader implications of marijuana use, including its potential role as a gateway drug and its association with other substance abuses. He emphasises the importance of understanding the real risks involved, especially for young people and pregnant women.
His insights are backed by data and supported by his extensive work with various medical institutions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the nuanced realities of marijuana use and its broader societal impacts. Dr. Finn's candid discussion offers valuable perspectives for those in recovery, their families, and anyone interested in the ongoing debate about marijuana legalisation. Curious about how marijuana affects public health? Dr. Finn's insights might just change your perspective.