Cannabis News
After Blocking Medical Research on Marijuana for 80 Years, the US Government Asked States for Data on the Benefits of Cannabis
The irony of irony, after blocking medical research on cannabis for over 80 years, the US Federal government asked legal states for data on the medical benefits of cannabis as the consider resheduling the plant from a schedule 1 drug to a schedule 3 drug.
Horse meet cart, cart meet horse.
As MJBIZ reported, newly released documents suggest that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took into consideration information on the medicinal value of marijuana submitted by U.S. states with legalized cannabis programs when determining the federal classification of the drug.
Previously, federal officials had provided limited information about the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) review process following a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommendation in August to reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 under the Controlled Substances Act.
Even the specific recommendations from HHS to the DEA had not been disclosed.
The DEA is currently in the process of reviewing legal and policy aspects of the rescheduling, initiated by the Biden administration in October 2022. However, a rare glimpse into the process emerged when attorney Matt Zorn obtained and shared heavily redacted internal documents on Substack.
According to the documents, the U.S. government displayed “an interest in state data” submitted by state-level regulators to federal officials during the summer, as noted by attorney Shane Pennington, co-author of the “On Drugs” newsletter with Zorn.
Several states had provided information to the FDA and HHS regarding the cannabis products used by medical patients and how marijuana addressed their symptoms, as initially reported by MJBizDaily in July. Since the Federal government has blocked most requests for studies on cannabis, the information is scarce.
At the time, these submissions were deemed potentially crucial, considering the limited number of peer-reviewed studies typically examined by federal health and science experts regarding state-legal marijuana products.
The “broader and more current data set” from the states appears to have played a role in informing HHS’ analysis of whether marijuana currently has an accepted medical use in the treatment of ailments in the United States, according to Pennington.
He further suggested that the FDA’s recent interest in state data, coupled with its significant focus on determining whether marijuana has a currently accepted medical use, leads to the conclusion that the agency likely believes the answer to that question is affirmative.
Unveiling the DEA’s Review Process
The recent disclosure of internal records has shed light on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) usually confidential review procedure, which is a complex area of drug categorization. These records, which were acquired and made public by lawyer Matt Zorn on Substack, provide a unique window into the process federal authorities went through while making decisions in reaction to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposal that marijuana be reclassified. The public and interested parties were not informed about the factors influencing the substance’s potential federal status before this disclosure, which followed a period of restricted transparency.
The disclosed documents highlight a pivotal moment in the DEA’s review process, initiated in the wake of the HHS recommendation to move marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 under the Controlled Substances Act. Before this release, federal officials had maintained a tight-lipped approach, providing scant details on the factors and assessments guiding their decisions. With this newfound glimpse into the inner workings of the DEA’s considerations, observers now have a better understanding of the complexities involved in reshaping the regulatory landscape for marijuana.
As attorney Matt Zorn shares these heavily redacted internal documents, questions arise about the criteria, evidence, and arguments weighed by the DEA in response to the HHS recommendation. The subheading sheds light on the intricacies of the review process, sparking discussions about the need for transparency in decisions that hold significant implications for the legal status and accessibility of marijuana in the United States. This revelation prompts a broader conversation about the balance between confidentiality in regulatory processes and the public’s right to information on decisions that impact public health and policy.
The Significance of State-Level Data in the Rescheduling Debate
The released documents bring to the forefront the crucial role played by U.S. states with legalized cannabis programs in the ongoing debate over the rescheduling of marijuana. Within the disclosed information, it becomes evident that the federal government has shown a distinct interest in the data submitted by state-level regulators. This marks a notable shift in the regulatory landscape, acknowledging the importance of considering firsthand experiences and observations from jurisdictions where cannabis is already legal.
During the summer, several states actively contributed valuable information to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) concerning the usage of cannabis products by medical patients and the efficacy of marijuana in addressing their symptoms. The significance of these submissions lies in their potential to shape the federal perspective on marijuana’s medical utility, as federal health and science experts typically rely on a limited number of peer-reviewed studies.
The involvement of state-level data in the rescheduling debate amplifies the voices of those directly impacted by legalized cannabis, bringing forth real-world insights that go beyond theoretical considerations. This section explores the implications of states actively participating in the regulatory discourse and how their submissions may influence the federal decision-making process. The newfound acknowledgement of state-level data introduces a dynamic element into the dialogue surrounding marijuana rescheduling, emphasizing the need to incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences in shaping national drug policy.
How State Submissions Inform HHS’ Analysis
The disclosed documents offer a fascinating glimpse into how state-level data is fundamentally shaping the analysis conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the medicinal value of marijuana. Attorney Shane Pennington’s observation that the U.S. government expressed “an interest in state data” underscores a departure from the traditional reliance on limited, peer-reviewed studies in the federal decision-making process. The rich dataset submitted by at least five states to the FDA and HHS includes intricate details about the cannabis products employed by medical patients and the nuanced ways in which marijuana alleviates their symptoms. This marks a significant departure from the norm, introducing a more dynamic and real-world perspective into the ongoing evaluation of marijuana’s accepted medical use.
As we peer into this data-driven paradigm, it becomes increasingly evident that the HHS’ analysis is being profoundly influenced by the comprehensive insights provided by states with legalized cannabis programs. The emphasis on a “broader and more current data set” signifies a recognition of the need to incorporate diverse experiences and contemporary information in assessing marijuana’s therapeutic potential. This shift in focus from theoretical studies to tangible, state-submitted data indicates a more holistic approach to understanding the medicinal applications of marijuana, potentially signalling a reevaluation of the substance’s classification at the federal level.
Bottom Line
The recently unveiled documents shed light on the intricate decision-making processes of both the DEA and HHS concerning the potential rescheduling of marijuana. The rare glimpse into these usually confidential procedures underscores the evolving landscape of marijuana regulation, with a growing emphasis on transparency and a departure from traditional reliance on limited studies. The acknowledgement of state-level data and its influential role in shaping federal perspectives introduces a dynamic element to the discourse, recognizing the importance of real-world experiences in evaluating marijuana’s medicinal value. As the FDA and DEA navigate the legal and policy complexities, these revelations prompt a broader conversation about the balance between confidentiality and the public’s right to information in shaping national drug policies with far-reaching implications.
HOW THE US GOVERNMENT BLOCKED CANNABIS RESEARCH, READ ON…
HOW THE NIDA WAS ABLE TO BLOCK CANNABIS RESEARCH EVERY YEAR!
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
-
From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
-
Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
-
As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
-
Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
-
Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
-
Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
-
Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
-
Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
-
FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
-
Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
-
Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
I Had Just One Puff
Marijuana firms Eaze, Green Dragon find new life after $10 million capital infusion
Get some rest on Modified Grapes—November’s Leafly HighLight
Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
The CBD Dog Treat Guide
Trippin’ Golf Balls – Can Magic Mushrooms Help Your Golf Game?
Australian Broadcasting Corp Alleges Military Veterans Have Been Targeted By Medicinal Cannabis Companies Via Social Media & Offered Free “Product”
Medical Marijuana Passed in 106 out of 106 Counties and Cities in What State? A. Florida B. Kentucky C. Ohio D. North Dakota
Distressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
United States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
What you Need to Know
Drug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
NCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
It has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
Cannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
A new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse
Your Go-To Source for Cannabis Logos and Designs
City Of Oakland Issues RFP For Employee Training Programs
-
Cannabis News2 years agoDistressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
-
One-Hit Wonders2 years agoUnited States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
-
Cannabis 1012 years agoWhat you Need to Know
-
drug testing11 months agoDrug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
-
Education2 years agoNCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
-
Cannabis2 years agoIt has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
-
Marijuana Business Daily2 years agoCannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
-
California2 years agoA new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse