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How is the US Government Studying the Health Benefits of Cannabis? Your Instagram and Facebook Posts, No Joke!
New FDA Report Shows Marijuana Rescheduling May Come Down to Your Social Media Posts about Weed!
Marijuana Moment reported a piece on FDA research that you thought was from The Onion.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is drawing attention to its scientific examination of marijuana, which prompted the agency to propose rescheduling. This involved a thorough analysis of research findings, as well as the examination of numerous social media posts to understand how consumers perceive the therapeutic effects of cannabis.
Wait, what?
Unveiling the FDA’s Cannabis Assessment Journey
The Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) of the FDA published its Drug Safety Priorities report for the fiscal year 2023 on Thursday. The study featured several projects that demonstrate the scope and flexibility of the Center’s and FDA’s drug safety activities. An important project that was started in 2022 was the study of cannabis, which was ordered by President Joe Biden.
CDER thoroughly examined a wide range of data sources to do an Eight-factor analysis (8FA), a scientific and medical evaluation. Based on the findings of this investigation, the FDA advised the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.
To bolster the 8FA that was submitted to the DEA, the CDER Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology (OSE) reviewed sources of epidemiological and pharmacovigilance data as part of the agency’s extensive assessment of marijuana.
Following the FDA review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) submitted a letter containing extensive research materials to the DEA, recommending the reclassification to Schedule III. The DEA is currently conducting its review before making a final decision. Despite rumors suggesting an imminent announcement two weeks ago, a Biden administration official dismissed these claims.
The FDA’s efforts to reach a scheduling decision also involved a team of social scientists who spent six months conducting a detailed qualitative analysis of online and social media discussions surrounding marijuana. This study involved manually analyzing hundreds of posts from publicly available platforms to gather user perspectives on marijuana, including its therapeutic efficacy for conditions such as anorexia, anxiety, nausea, and pain, as well as non-medical uses, benefits, negative effects, and experiences with access.
Additionally, the FDA report highlighted the completion of an assessment regarding the capabilities and utility of various epidemiological, pharmacovigilance, and drug utilization data sources for monitoring the safety of unapproved cannabis-derived products.
Delays and Congressional Pressure: The Quest for Clarity
It has been over six months since the FDA recommended to the DEA that marijuana be rescheduled, but it is unclear when a final decision will be made. The Congressional Cannabis Caucus’ founder, Representative Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), has been pressing the DEA to be more open about its continuing assessment process throughout this time. He specifically asked for information on the agency’s projected completion date for the assessment as well as if it would take into account the legalization of cannabis in several states.
A prior letter from Blumenauer and thirty nonpartisan congressmen caused the DEA to declare its “final authority” over the rescheduling decision, which is when Blumenauer made his request.
On the other hand, in a letter to the DEA, a Republican congressman who is well-known for his adamant opposition to marijuana reform attacked the FDA’s suggestion to reschedule cannabis. He called into question the scientific soundness of the FDA’s ruling and suggested the DEA ignore it in the process of reaching its ultimate conclusion.
Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with other proponents of marijuana reform, wrote DEA Administrator Anne Milgram a separate letter in which they urged the agency to not only reschedule cannabis but also remove it completely from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
Meanwhile, Xavier Becerra, the secretary of health and human services, stated last month that his agency has communicated to the DEA its stance on the rescheduling of marijuana and continues to provide further materials to aid in the decision-making process.
Before the release of a significant cache of documents by the HHS regarding its recommendation on cannabis, a coalition of 12 Democratic state attorneys general urged the DEA to proceed with the federal rescheduling of marijuana, citing it as a critical measure for public safety.
Diverse Stakeholder Perspectives and Political Implications
A group of 29 former U.S. attorneys wrote a letter to the Biden administration in December requesting that cannabis remain listed as Schedule I.
In a coordinated letter to President Biden, the governors of six states—Colorado, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Louisiana—pleaded for the rescheduling of marijuana by the end of the previous year.
The federal health agency’s suggestion to reschedule marijuana was opposed by a coalition of six former DEA chiefs and five former White House drug czars, who wrote a letter to the attorney general and the current DEA administrator. They also made assertions regarding the relationship between drug schedules and criminal penalties, potentially overstating the impact of incremental reform. Notably, signatories included heads of the DEA and the Office of National Drug Control Policy from various administrations, representing both major political parties.
In a separate initiative, a group of 14 Republican congressional lawmakers urged the DEA to reject the federal health agency’s recommendation and maintain marijuana in the CSA’s most restrictive category.
Recent polling suggests that approximately one-third of marijuana consumers would revert to the illicit market if cannabis were rescheduled and only accessible as an FDA-approved prescription drug.
Moreover, a recent survey indicated that President Biden could experience substantial political gains if marijuana were rescheduled under his administration’s directive, though it’s important to note that Biden does not directly control the final decision.
President Biden has frequently highlighted his 2022 scheduling directive and the mass pardons he issued for individuals convicted of federal marijuana possession offenses. In December, he furthered this action with an expanded pardon proclamation. The Justice Department has already commenced issuing certifications for individuals who applied during the second round.
Additionally, Vice President Kamala Harris’s office has been in contact with individuals who received a cannabis pardon, ensuring a smooth process for Justice Department certification and engaging in broader discussions about cannabis policy reform, as reported by a recipient of the pardon who was contacted.
Bottom Line
In navigating the multifaceted landscape of marijuana policy reform, the FDA’s exhaustive examination of cannabis, supplemented by insights from social media analysis, illuminates the intricate dynamics at play. Despite the agency’s recommendation for rescheduling, political pressures from congressional figures and stakeholders present hurdles towards a definitive decision. The divergent views expressed by former U.S. attorneys, governors, and DEA officials underscore the contentious nature of the issue. Meanwhile, public sentiment and potential market shifts add further complexity, with implications for President Biden’s administration and broader cannabis policy reform. Ultimately, the FDA’s thorough evaluation serves as a focal point in a complex discourse, highlighting the intricacies of balancing scientific evidence, political interests, and societal perceptions in shaping marijuana policy.
CANNABIS AND SOCIAL MEDIA, IT’S COMPLICATED, 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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