Cannabis News
Hotel Deliveries, Direct to Consumer Sales, Music Festivals
The Maine regulatory body overseeing the adult-use cannabis market is introducing new regulations to improve consumer accessibility. These modifications, driven by recent record-breaking sales, are primarily influenced by two legislative bills passed this year. One of these bills seeks to diminish the stigma surrounding cannabis. At the same time, the other aims to rectify an omission in a previous year’s bill, which permitted cannabis sales at events like concerts and festivals.
Maine, the way life should be, is the state slogan, and for cannabis fans, they can now agree!
The proposed rules represent a comprehensive transformation and complete rewriting, often called a “repeal and replace,” of the initial guidelines. According to Gabi Pierce, the policy director at the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy, this overhaul aims to enhance the user-friendliness of the approximately 100-page regulations governing adult-use cannabis in Maine.
It includes formatting, organization, and language updates to make the rules more accessible and understandable. A public hearing to discuss these changes is scheduled for next week.
Expansion of Cannabis Delivery and Sales
Last year, the Legislature granted authorization for cannabis delivery from retail stores to customers, and this year, they expanded this privilege to include small cultivators and manufacturers. Presently, cultivators and manufacturers are prohibited from selling directly to consumers.
The proposed bill would also allow stores, manufacturers, and cultivators to directly serve tourists by delivering to hotels and businesses, provided these establishments have written consent for such deliveries.
Rep. Laura Supica, D-Bangor, who introduced the bill, pointed out that medical and illicit cannabis are already being delivered to these locations. She emphasized that if we are genuinely committed to using a regulated adult-use market to eradicate the illegal market, these changes in delivery regulations should be beneficial.
Furthermore, the bill proposes to increase the permissible potency of a cannabis product, raising the limit from 100 mg of THC per package to 200 mg. Additionally, it doubles the quantity of cannabis concentrate an individual can buy in one go, from 5 grams to 10 grams. THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana responsible for the user’s high, is the key focus of these changes.
Rep. Laura Supica emphasized that many of the current limits stem from the stigma associated with the drug. She argues that, in this instance, cannabis should be regulated more akin to alcohol.
She pointed out that when purchasing alcohol at a liquor store, individuals can buy as much as they can afford and even purchase spirits with 150 proof. The intent is to shift the prevailing cultural perspective on how cannabis is treated and regulated.
The preceding year, lawmakers passed a contentious bill permitting the off-site sale of non-smokable cannabis. This meant that, theoretically, cannabis products like edibles could be marketed at venues such as farmers markets, concerts, festivals, and fairs, among others. While the law allowed the sale of specific cannabis items, it strictly prohibited their consumption in public spaces.
However, Governor Janet Mills opted not to endorse the bill, as indicated by draft veto language briefly published on the governor’s website before its removal. Her concerns revolved around the bill’s perceived need for clarity and the potential for inconsistent interpretations in municipal oversight. Also, off-site sales could encourage public consumption, posing significant safety concerns.
In the draft language, Governor Mills also noted that the bill lacked the necessary statutory safeguards for her office to effectively and responsibly oversee its implementation.
In the end, Governor Mills decided not to veto the bill, allowing it to become law without her signature, and the previously drafted language outlining her concerns was subsequently removed from her website.
The revised version of the bill, passed this year, extends permission for the sale of smokable cannabis and addresses the statutory issues by offering more precise instructions for both state and municipal regulators.
Evolution and Growth of Maine’s Cannabis Market
In 2022, Maine’s adult-use retailers achieved sales totaling $158.9 million worth of products, and they are currently on a trajectory to surpass that figure this year, having already sold $118.3 million through July.
July marked a historic high for the market, with sales reaching almost $21 million, demonstrating a continuous uptrend in revenue. Notably, the average price for a gram of cannabis flower has dipped to $7.88, nearly half its 2020 selling price. Despite this price drop, the number of sales in 2023 has almost doubled compared to all of 2021, totaling approximately 2 million transactions.
Maine currently boasts 287 state-licensed adult-use cannabis businesses, including cultivators, store owners, manufacturers, and testing labs, with 198 companies in various stages of the approval process.
The proposed rules will undergo discussion at a public hearing scheduled for 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the state’s offices in Augusta. The Maine Office of Cannabis Policy is welcoming public comments until September 17th. These rules are anticipated to come into effect in January.
Maine’s adult-use cannabis industry is projected to generate annual sales ranging from $275 million to $325 million by 2024, as reported by “Marijuana Business Daily.” This growth potential is underscored by the experience in Massachusetts, where dispensaries recorded over $420 million in sales during their initial year of recreational marijuana operations, highlighting the significant opportunities for cannabis businesses in the Northeast.
Conclusion
Maine’s adult-use cannabis market is experiencing significant growth and evolution. July marked a milestone with record-breaking sales despite a noticeable decline in the price of cannabis flowers. The industry has seen a remarkable increase in transactions in 2023, nearly doubling the figures from the previous year. With 287 state-licensed cannabis businesses already operational and another 198 in the approval pipeline, the industry is poised for further expansion.
The proposed rule changes, aimed at enhancing accessibility, potency limits, and regulatory clarity, signal a proactive approach to the evolving cannabis landscape. These changes will be discussed in a public hearing, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions. As these rules are expected to take effect in January, Maine’s cannabis industry is on a dynamic path, adapting to meet the needs of both consumers and regulators in this rapidly evolving market.
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“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.
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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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