Cannabis News
German Health Insurance Filled Close to 100,000 Medical Marijuana Prescriptions Last Quarter Alone
Demands for the legalization of cannabis are increasing throughout Europe, mirroring the progressive steps taken by Canada and certain regions of the U.S. to approve the use of the substance. Advocates conveyed many advantages of establishing a legal cannabis market during the Cannabis Europa industry event held in London last week. These benefits encompass improvements in public health, augmented tax revenues, and the destigmatization of medical marijuana.
Despite enduring opposition from critics who contend that legalization results in elevated crime rates, addiction issues, and health hazards, proponents insist that a regulated market yields positive outcomes. Jindřich Vobořil, the Czech Republic’s national drug coordinator, emphasized the efficacy of a regulated approach and underscored the need for cannabis to be governed like other controlled items within his domain, such as tobacco and alcohol. He pointed out that prohibition has proven ineffective, drawing parallels with the failures of alcohol, tobacco, and gambling restrictions.
EU Pushback
Nevertheless, European governments are encountering resistance at the European Union level, as many struggle to draft legislation that aligns with EU regulations, international drug treaties, and public health considerations. While certain European countries have sanctioned the use of marijuana for medicinal reasons, the region has traditionally maintained a cautious stance towards recreational cannabis. Concerns linger that legalizing the substance in one country might trigger ripple effects for neighboring nations that oppose such actions.
The European Commission, which serves as the executive branch of the European Union, declined to comment on specific national dialogues but affirmed its close monitoring of these developments. A spokesperson conveyed that the Commission is attentive to the evolving cannabis policies within member states, particularly their potential impacts on health, crime, the environment, and societal dynamics. This perspective was shared through an emailed statement responding to CNBC’s inquiries. Against this backdrop, activists advocating cannabis legalization were observed marching past the Reichstag during Berlin’s annual Hemp Parade in Germany.
EU regulations mandate that member states establish measures that impose “effective, proportionate, and dissuasive” criminal penalties for selling illicit drugs, including cannabis. However, these regulations do not impose restrictions on personal consumption. Legalizing cannabis commercially also clashes with international treaties, including the United Nations’ 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. Despite this, countries like Canada and Uruguay have not faced significant consequences after opting to legalize the drug.
In response to feedback from the EU, Germany recently scaled back its comprehensive legalization proposals. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach acknowledged the failure of his initial proposal and emphasized the need for a fresh approach in the revised plan. Under the updated legislation, the focus has shifted towards permitting private consumption and distribution through non-profit organizations. Additionally, the revised plan includes provisions for a potential pilot project to test the sale of cannabis in a limited number of licensed shops.
Germany Looks To Legalize Cannabis
Germany’s Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has introduced a contentious draft bill to legalize recreational cannabis use. The bill, which gained approval from the German Cabinet, is being pushed by proponents within the coalition government. Despite their aim to legalize cannabis this year, resistance emerges from conservative lawmakers, certain medical professionals, and law enforcement.
Lauterbach has characterized the draft bill as a significant shift from past unsuccessful cannabis policies. He emphasizes that although cannabis consumption will be legalized, it still carries risks. The Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry, stresses the importance of safeguarding youth through an upcoming information campaign.
The proposed legislation would permit adults over 18 to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and grow up to three plants for personal use. Additionally, “cannabis social clubs” would be established, allowing members access to homegrown products. However, consumption within the clubs’ premises or 200 meters of them would be prohibited, presenting a challenge for finding suitable locations.
The initial phase involves decriminalization, followed by the possibility of specialized shops selling cannabis and THC-containing products in selected districts and cities. These regions would serve as model areas for five years. While there were initially high expectations for substantial tax revenues and savings in law enforcement costs, revised estimates have reduced these projections to hundreds of thousands of euros due to increased spending on law evaluation and prevention initiatives.
Opposition To The Bill
Medical professionals have voiced their criticism of the proposed changes. Five organizations representing physicians specializing in the care of children and young individuals issued a collective statement, expressing concerns about the potential harm to the mental well-being and developmental prospects of young people in Germany.
In addition, the police union has registered its opposition to the bill, and the German Association of Judges has cautioned against overburdening the judicial system due to the intricate regulations governing cannabis clubs and drug distribution.
Furthermore, conservative lawmakers from various states have openly rejected the proposed legislation. They argue that the initiative is “medically irresponsible,” some have even labeled it as an “assault on youth and health protection.”
More Encouragement for Germany to Legalize Cannabis With Increased Insurance Payouts
In the first quarter of 2023, insurance reimbursements for medical cannabinoid products in Germany continued to grow, illustrating the ongoing gradual expansion of the country’s cannabis industry, which now ranks among the largest globally.
This period’s reimbursement reached approximately 50.9 million euros ($55.6 million), as indicated by the most recent data from the German National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (GKV-Spitzenverband). This marks a 6.5% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. However, there was a minor decline compared to the fourth quarter of 2022. During this quarter, nearly 99,000 prescriptions were filled.
Within the market segments, the dried-flower segment accounted for 21.1 million euros, while finished pharmaceutical products, encompassing items like Sativex and Epidolex, recorded sales of 13.1 million euros.
For context, during the same quarter, Canada’s regulated cannabis market registered medical cannabis sales worth 98 million Canadian dollars ($72 million), per Statistics Canada’s data. It’s important to note that the German reimbursement figures do not encompass private prescription sales paid directly by patients. Consequently, the actual medical cannabis sales in Germany exceeded the reported 55.6 million euros, although an exact figure remains unavailable.
Conclusion
The evolving landscape of cannabis in Europe, particularly in Germany, reflects the intricate interplay between regulatory frameworks, medical considerations, and societal opinions. The gradual growth of the cannabis industry, as seen through insurance reimbursements for medical products, showcases the complexity of balancing public health needs with economic opportunities.
As the cannabis dialogue continues, it remains essential to weigh the perspectives of medical professionals, policymakers, and the public to navigate the path toward responsible and effective cannabis policies.
MORE ON GERMAN LEGALIZATION, 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.
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