The argument that legalization of marijuana is linked to lower rates of opiate prescriptions has hit the headlines this week with the release of two new research studies. The two studies are the latest in a larger body of research showing that marijuana availability is connected to a reduction in opiate use and misuse.

A growing number of opioid addictions in Canada has many health-care providers, lawmakers and regulators looking for solutions to this serious public health issue. U of G psychology professor Francesco Leri researches opioid addiction and is investigating why some people are more at risk of developing an addiction than others. He says it makes sense that legalization of marijuana would lead to fewer opiate prescriptions and could be one component of a more comprehensive strategy to combat the opioid addiction crisis.

Leri also studies other aspects of opioid use, including patterns of use, addiction, relapse and withdrawal.

He is available for media interviews.

Contact:
Prof. Francesco Leri
fleri@uoguelph.ca