The limits of opioid therapy
Opioids have long been considered the gold standard for pain management, but the reality is different and that is consistent with our members' experiences. Studies show that long-term use of opioids can not only increase sensitivity to pain (so-called opioid-induced hyperalgesia ), but is also associated with an increased risk of depression, sleep disorders and even suicidal ideation.
An example: A recent study of fibromyalgia patients showed that long-term use of opioids significantly increased the following risks:
- Depression : 58% higher risk
- Sleep disorders : 30% higher risk
- Suicidal ideation : 76% higher risk after 90 days of use
Despite these alarming findings, opioids often remain the first choice for treating chronic pain.
The need for a paradigm shift
Chronic pain is a complex challenge that requires more than just masking symptoms. They have a massive impact on the physical and mental health as well as the quality of life of those affected. A rethink in medicine is urgently needed - away from short-term solutions that cause long-term harm and towards treatment approaches that improve quality of life.
A promising alternative is the medical use of cannabis. Many of our members report that cannabis not only relieves their pain, but also avoids the serious side effects of opioids.
Why the medical use of cannabis should be seriously considered:
- Pain relief without addiction : Unlike opioids, cannabis does not cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
- Improvement in quality of life : Patients remain mentally present and can actively participate in life.
- Protecting Digestive Health : Cannabis does not cause gastrointestinal problems that are common with opioids.
The future of pain therapy
Modern medicine must ask itself the question: Why do we stick to treatment approaches that cause more long-term harm than good? Chronically ill people deserve therapies that focus on their quality of life - without the risks of addiction, depression or worsened pain.
The path to better pain therapy requires courage and openness to seriously examine new approaches such as the medical use of cannabis and integrate them into care. Since August 2022, medical professionals in Switzerland have now been able to prescribe cannabis like opiates. So there is now an alternative that is unfortunately still far too little used. Because chronic pain deserves more than just a superficial solution – it deserves treatment that provides relief rather than long-term harm.
Do you have experience with chronic pain and opiates? Would you also like to try cannabis medicinally? Then ask your doctor. Pain therapy with the medical use of cannabis is now possible in Switzerland.
