The research found a decline in prescriptions for chronic pain, anxiety and depression — ailments for which medical marijuana is sometimes recommended — in states where medical marijuana is legalized. The study also found Medicare saved about $165 million in 2013. Researchers estimate nationwide legalization would have saved Medicare Part D $470 million in 2013.
While the possible savings represent only half a percent of the program’s total spending, medical marijuana could act as an alternative to excessive prescription painkiller use, Kaiser Health News reported. The research found painkiller prescriptions decreased by an average of 1,800 daily doses filled every year per physician in states legalizing the drug.
Twenty-five U.S. states, including the District of Columbia, have legalized medical marijuana.
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