Medical Marijuana Laws, Marijuana Use, and Opioid-Related Outcomes among Women in the United States

BackgroundIn the context of opioid epidemic, a limited but growing body literature has found state medical marijuana laws (MMLs) to be associated with lower levels prescribing. However, robust evidence linking MMLs individual-level opioid-related outcomes is lacking, particularly among women. This finding especially true for pregnant and parenting women, who have been disproportionately affected by crisis.MethodsUsing data drawn from 2002–2014 National Survey on Drug Use Heath, study uses difference-in-differences estimation strategy compare (opioid misuse initiation, in past month year, use disorder) all women states without (before after implementation). The also investigates impact disorder.ResultsThe findings indicate that were not misuse, or disorder These were, however, positively correlated children. In addition, an increase frequency decrease women.ConclusionsThis suggests that, although may viewed some as substitute analgesics, effective policy tool tackle epidemic