(CNN) Cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive ingredient in hemp and marijuana, could treat opioid addiction, a new study says. Given to patients with heroin addiction, cannabidiol, also known as CBD, reduced their cravings for the illicit drug as well as their levels of anxiety. The available medications for opioid addiction, such as buprenorphine and methadone, act in a similar way, curbing cravings. "So many people are dying, and there is a need for developing medications," Hurd said. These findings are similar to those of a pilot study Hurd ran, but she says the next step is to do a longer-term study, following subjects for up to six months.

Source: CNN May 21, 2019 07:18 UTC