Addiction
There are no two ways about it. Addiction is both diabolical and devastating. By definition, “addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.” https://www.asam.org/quality-care/definition-of-addiction
Addiction comes with so many different moving parts that one should make no mistake, cannabis IS a drug. It comes with side effects (both good and bad), drug interactions and legality issues. Over-education and open dialog with your doctors about your interest in cannabis is crucial. As some of the following research will tell you, cannabis can cause more harm in some and it can do wonders for others. As always, please consult your doctors prior to starting up a cannabis regimen, as it can interfere with some standard medications.
Marijuana and cannabinoid regulation of brain reward circuits
Cannabidiol as an Intervention for Addictive Behaviors: A Systematic Review of the Evidence
Effects of Legal Access to Cannabis on Scheduled II-V Drug Prescriptions
Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers: preliminary findings
Oral cannabidiol does not produce a signal for abuse liability in frequent marijuana smokers
Role of Cannabidiol in the Therapeutic Intervention for Substance Use Disorders