Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug for Opioid Use Disorder

Marijuana is referred to by many words, and gateway is one of them. There is mounting evidence that people often begin to fall prey to opioids and other illicit substances when they are exposed to Marijuana and other gateway drugs. 

Let’s answer 2 main questions first:

1. 1. Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug? – Yes and No! For some individuals, it may often serve as a gateway drug. However, this is a controversial discussion.
   2. Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug to More Addictive Substances?– Yes! Many people try “softer” drugs like marijuana before progressing to “harder” drugs like Opioids.

In this article, we will discuss how Marijuana may lead to Opioid Use Disorder! 

There is no shame in seeking help for yourself or a loved one! ChoicePoint is a co-occurring addiction rehab in New Jersey, Fairlawn, that offers personalized Opioid Addiction Treatment. To schedule an online appointment, fill out this form and call 844.445.2565 to schedule an in-person appointment! 

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What Is a Gateway Drug?- A Quick Overview

A gateway drug is a less harmful substance that may lead to the use of more dangerous drugs. These drugs can make trying stronger drugs seem less risky. Gateway drugs are often the most accessible and first-tried substances in any region. These drugs are also thought to increase the likelihood of developing an addiction to either the gateway drug itself or a stronger substance. Other common characteristics of gateway drugs include:

1. Less harmful than other potent drugs
2. Non-addictive but still dangerous
3. Low risk encourages experimentation
4. Socially acceptable, which leads to abuse

Types of Gateway Drugs

It all begins with a small sip or a single puff. Here are some common gateway drug examples that may lead users to experience more intense effects: 

1. Alcohol
2. Tobacco
3. Marijuana
4. Prescription painkillers (e.g., opioids like Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Morphine and Fentanyl)
5. Caffeine
6. Inhalants (e.g., glue, paint thinners)
7. E-cigarettes/vaping
8. Over-the-counter medications (e.g., cough syrup)
9. Nicotine
10. Energy drinks

When Does Marijuana Become a Gateway Drug?

Frequent marijuana use among young people could lead to the use of more potent substances due to negative social, economic, and environmental factors. By using Marijuana, young people try to cope with mental issues. Little do they know they are opening themselves to more harmful addictions. Several factors can increase the likelihood of marijuana being a gateway drug, including: 

1. genetics
2. personality
3. risk-taking behavior
4. access to high-risk environments 
5. social support

5 Shocking Effects of Marijuana Abuse

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug?- What Do the Studies Reveal

There has always been a debate regarding ‘Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug’ and whether it leads to Opioid Abuse in later years. Here are some research to help you grasp the concept better: 

Research#1

Some studies conducted on animals suggest that early cannabis exposure may alter the brain’s response to drugs. It could change how the brain reacts to dopamine, influencing substance use disorder. Additionally, it may heighten the brain’s response to other drugs.

Research#2

A 2020 research examined decades of data identifying Marijuana as a gateway drug. While many cited studies found a correlation, they often had serious methodological issues. For example, one study found that youths who use Marijuana are 104 times more likely to use Opioids than nonusers. However, significant pre-existing differences between the groups imply that environmental variables, personality characteristics, or other risk factors may explain the use of both drugs.

Research#3

A 2021 nationally representative study used 18 tests to assess the theory of Marijuana as a gateway drug. Six tests showed a statistically significant link, but only three showed substantive results. Researchers caution that these three tests were subject to hidden bias, indicating their data does not support Marijuana as a gateway drug.

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug for Opioid Use Disorder

The “gateway” theory suggests that early marijuana use can reduce perceived risks and increase the likelihood of trying other drugs. Marijuana is often the first drug people try, leading to curiosity about other substances. Regular marijuana use may lead to tolerance, making the user seek stronger drugs to achieve the same high. Patterns of drug abuse behavior established with marijuana may transition to other substances, including opioids. Here is how consistent Marijuana use may lead to an Opioid Use Disorder: 

1. Users often encounter environments where other drugs, including opioids, are available and normalized.
2. Individuals using marijuana for pain or stress relief may turn to opioids when marijuana’s effects become insufficient.
3. Psychological dependence on marijuana can evolve into seeking stronger substances as the need for more intense experiences grows.
4. Using marijuana can make the brain more sensitive to the effects of other drugs, including opioids.
5. As marijuana becomes insufficient to achieve the desired effects, users may escalate to opioid use.

How Is Weed a Gateway Drug If It Is Legal?

It is indeed true that many states have legalized recreational use of marijuana. This has, sadly, created a false perception of safety. However, it is important to remember that even legal drugs can still be abused, including marijuana. Studies show marijuana users are more likely to try more dangerous drugs like heroin, opioids, and cocaine. Hence classifying it as a gateway drug. Here is what you need to know:

1. Most gateway drugs are legal in some form but still carry addiction risks when overused.
2. Marijuana use may still cause lung damage and cognitive decline in heavy users despite its legality.
3. Avoiding the use of Marijuana and other gateway drugs is ideal to prevent any risk of substance abuse.

Youth and the Rise of Marijuana Abuse

Sadly, many adults who abuse Marijuana or any other gateway drug usually begin in their youth. When they are exposed to bad company. Here are three ways to confront a teenager respectfully and warn them about marijuana being a gateway drug to Opioid addiction and worse:

1. Discuss the risks of substance abuse calmly and factually.
2. Share real-life stories and negative consequences of abusing illicit drugs.
3. Encourage open dialogue and questions.

If you suspect your teen is addicted to drugs and you are looking for an addiction treatment rehab that offers Telehealth consultations, call ChoicePoint now at 844.445.2565! We also offer an exclusive addiction treatment program designed specifically for students. 

Free Addiction Assessment

Please note this assessment is an initial self-screening, and it is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment At ChoicePoint

If anyone you know is displaying these common signs of Opioid Addiction, they may need an intervention. Common signs of opioid use disorder include:

1. Cravings
2. Inability to control use 
3. Withdrawal symptoms
4. Continued use despite harm

At ChoicePoint, our DEA-certified practitioners offer the following levels of care:

1.  Inpatient Rehabilitation 
2. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
3. Intensive Outpatient Rehabilitation
4. Outpatient Treatment
5. Medication-Assisted Addiction Treatment Program
6. Detox Addiction Treatment Program
7. Aftercare

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug for Opioid Use Disorder- Other FAQs

Here are common queries regarding whether Marijuana is a gateway drug for Opioid Use Disorder. 

Do Gateway Drugs Lead to More Dangerous Substance Use & Addiction in Most?

This is a controversial topic; some research has even found a correlation between the two. However,  many have methodological problems or biases. Overall, there is no conclusive evidence that gateway drugs typically result in more harmful substance use and addiction. 

Why Does the Brain Get Addicted to Marijuana

Marijuana addiction develops when the active element, THC, stimulates the brain’s reward system by releasing dopamine, resulting in pleasurable benefits. Repeated usage affects brain chemistry, resulting in dependence and cravings.

What Are Gateway Drugs In Adolescence?

Common gateway drugs that are abused in youth include:

1. Alcohol
2. Nicotine
3. Marijuana

However, any drug might be classified as a gateway drug if used during adolescent brain development. A major risk throughout adolescence is using a substance for the first time or using multiple drugs at the same time.

Is Marijuana Safe For Everyone, And How Can You Prevent Marijuana Addiction?

No, Marijuana is not safe for everyone. It may have harmful effects, especially in young people, pregnant women, and those with a history of mental health issues. Prevention includes: 

1. education
2. healthy coping mechanisms 
3. avoiding high-risk environments

Does Everyone Who Uses Marijuana Move On To Harder Drugs, And Can Marijuana Use Lead To Opioid Addiction?

No, not everyone who uses marijuana progresses to harder drugs. While it can increase the risk, many other factors contribute to opioid addiction. Other factors include: 

1. increased tolerance
2. social circles where other drugs are present
3. behavioral patterns of drug use

How Does Tolerance Develop With Marijuana Use?

Repeated use leads to the brain requiring more of the drug to achieve the same effect. Longterm effects may include: 

1. cognitive decline
2. respiratory issues
3. mental health problems

References

1. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-gateway-drug 
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7359408/ 
3. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11292-021-09464-z