Examining connections between marijuana reform and opioid epidemic

Regular readers know I am quite interested in the connections and linkages between marijuana reform and opioid use and abuse.  Thus I am especially excited a student presentation in my Marijuana Law, Policy & Reform seminar this coming week is focused on this topic.  The student addressing this issue has assembled the following background reading:

2015 Ohio Drug Overdose Data At A Glance

Surveillance of Drug Abuse Trends in the State of Ohio

One way to fight the opioid epidemic? Medical marijuana.: An innovative, but evidence-based, idea.

Early Phase in the Development of Cannabidiol as a Treatment for Addiction: Opioid Relapse Takes Initial Center Stage

Medical Cannabis Use Is Associated With Decreased Opiate Medication Use in a Retrospective Cross-Sectional Survey of Patients With Chronic Pain

Medical Marijuana Laws Reduce Prescription Medication Use In Medicare Part D

Patients and Caregivers Report Using Medical Marijuana to Decrease Prescription Narcotics Use