Cannabis News
Congress Tells the DEA That UN Drug Treaties are a Joke, Don’t Let Them Stop You from Rescheduling Marijuana
With Germany legalizing recreational cannabis this past week, it appears UN Drug treaties around cannabis cultivation and processing are out the window. While Cannabis.net has been beating the drum over the past year in multiple articles that the US using the excuse of not rescheduling marijuana because of “violations of international drug treaties” is a complete farce. The UN actually changed its own scheduling of cannabis resin 4-years ago, while the US has yet to update their scheduling of the plant. Ironcially, the US has started to import cannabis from Jamaica with DEA approval for medical testings as well.
It appears the US Congress is picking up the baton from Cannabis.net and telling the DEA not to worry about international drug treaties as it reschedules cannabis in the current months or weeks.
Sydney Kamlager-Dove, a Democrat in Congress, is pushing for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to reevaluate its position regarding the rescheduling of marijuana. She disputes claims that postponing would violate the agency’s commitments under international treaties and asks the Department of health and human services (HHS) to give its proposals first priority. Furthermore, Kamlager-Dove stresses the need of openness and demands that the DEA reveal any outside factors influencing its decision-making process.
While some, like Rep. Andy Harris, express concerns about potential treaty violations, legal experts and lawmakers argue in favor of rescheduling. They point to revisions in global cannabis policies and examples from countries like Canada and Uruguay to support their stance. Advocates for rescheduling contend that moving marijuana to Schedule III aligns with treaty objectives of safeguarding public health and safety.
Debate Surrounding Treaty Obligations and Rescheduling
The debate over marijuana rescheduling is intensifying as questions arise regarding its potential conflict with international treaty obligations. While some, like Rep. Andy Harris, voice concerns over treaty violations, others, including legal experts and lawmakers, argue for rescheduling, citing evolving global cannabis policies and examples from countries like Canada and Uruguay. Advocates assert that moving marijuana to Schedule III could align with treaty goals of promoting public health and safety.
Support for rescheduling comes from various quarters, emphasizing its potential benefits and alignment with changing global norms. Rescheduling, according to supporters, may result in a more comprehensive drug policy that addresses the unequal effects of prohibition and places a higher priority on harm reduction and scientific research. In the meanwhile, appeals for responsibility in determining drug policy—especially when it comes to a substance with major medical and societal ramifications—highlight more general concerns for openness in the decision-making process.
As stakeholders navigate the complexities of international agreements and domestic law, the DEA’s decision on rescheduling carries substantial weight. It not only shapes federal policy but also signals the United States’ stance on drug regulation globally. With diverse interests and perspectives in play, the debate highlights the need for a nuanced approach that considers public health, scientific evidence, and international obligations.
Support for Rescheduling
Support for the rescheduling of marijuana is widespread among advocates, who underscore its potential benefits and alignment with changing global attitudes. Advocates argue that rescheduling could usher in a more holistic approach to drug policy, prioritizing harm reduction and scientific inquiry. By acknowledging the medicinal properties of marijuana and easing restrictions, proponents believe it would enhance access for patients and researchers alike. Moreover, they contend that such a move would address the inequities perpetuated by prohibition, particularly impacting marginalized communities disproportionately.
Proponents emphasize how important it is to recognize marijuana’s medical benefits and modify laws accordingly. They contend that rescheduling would promote a more compassionate and fact-based approach to cannabis legislation in addition to reflecting societal advancements in cannabis understanding. Rescheduling, according to supporters, may create new avenues for medical innovation and patient care by removing barriers to research and treatment, ultimately leading to better public health outcomes.
Rescheduling is being pushed mostly because of larger social justice issues related to drug laws. A lot of supporters draw attention to how low-income people and communities of color are disproportionately affected by marijuana prohibition. They contend that by easing the severe penalties associated with criminalization and creating avenues for both community reinvestment and economic development, rescheduling is a step in redressing these past injustices.
Stakeholders are advocating for a balanced and inclusive strategy that stresses equality, scientific evidence, and public health as support for rescheduling builds. They stress how important it is to have open, cooperative decision-making procedures that take into account the many interests and points of view involved. In the end, the push for rescheduling marijuana is a reflection of a larger trend toward more reasonable and progressive drug laws that put harm reduction, social justice, and human rights first.
Social Justice Implications
There are significant social justice implications to the marijuana rescheduling issue in addition to health and scientific ones. The disproportionate effects of marijuana prohibition on marginalized communities—people of color and those from low-income backgrounds, in particular—are highlighted by critics of the existing drug policy. Current laws have led to racial inequities in arrest and imprisonment rates by criminalizing marijuana use and distribution, which has prolonged cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement.
Marijuana rescheduling offers an opportunity to alleviate these injustices by reducing the punitive impacts of prohibition while also giving opportunities for economic empowerment and community development. Advocates claim that such reforms are critical for redressing historical injustices and creating a more just society. Furthermore, rescheduling may allow for the erasure of prior marijuana-related convictions, giving people an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society without the weight of a criminal record.
In addition, proponents assert that rescheduling marijuana might open doors for economic growth and entrepreneurship, especially in areas where the war on drugs has disproportionately impacted the population. Legislators may promote a flourishing and diverse cannabis sector that serves the interests of all societal members by regulating marijuana in a way that puts social equity first. Therefore, the push to reschedule marijuana is about more than just altering drug laws; it’s also about promoting social justice and building a more just future for everybody.
Bottom Line
The discourse surrounding marijuana rescheduling intertwines intricate facets, from treaty obligations to social justice concerns. While apprehensions exist regarding treaty adherence, proponents advocate for rescheduling, citing evolving global cannabis policies and the necessity for a compassionate approach to drug regulation. The drive for rescheduling stems from its potential benefits, such as improved medical access and redressing the disproportionate impact of prohibition on marginalized groups. Navigating these complexities demands transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes. The forthcoming DEA verdict on rescheduling holds immense significance, shaping not only domestic policy but also the nation’s stance on drug regulation worldwide. Amid diverse interests, the discourse underscores the need for a balanced approach, considering public health, scientific evidence, and social equity. Ultimately, the advocacy for marijuana rescheduling reflects broader societal shifts toward progressive drug policies prioritizing harm reduction, social justice, and human rights.
INTERNATIONAL DRUG TREATIES THAT DON’T MATTER, READ ON…
“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.
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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.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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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
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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…
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