Cannabis News
Scotland to Go the Way of Portugal and Calls for the Decriminalization of All Drugs
Last week, the Scottish government made a plea to decriminalize the possession of small quantities of drugs as an effort to address the alarming number of overdose deaths in the country, which ranks among the highest in Europe. In a policy proposal, the semi-autonomous government in Edinburgh, led by the Scottish National Party advocating for independence, stated that removing criminal penalties for drug possession would enable the implementation of safe and evidence-based harm reduction services.
During a press conference, Scottish drugs minister Elena Whitham, alongside drug policy reform advocates Helen Clark, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Ruth Dreifuss, the former President of Switzerland, expressed their belief that the “war on drugs” had proven unsuccessful. Whitham emphasised that the current drug legislation not only fails to deter drug use, prevent associated harm, and ultimately save lives, but it also exacerbates the negative consequences experienced by individuals. Criminalisation contributes to fatalities and intensifies the harm caused by drug use.
Scotland’s Urgent Call for Drug Decriminalization Amidst Overwhelming Overdose Crisis
Scotland currently faces a devastating drug overdose crisis, with a death rate three times higher than the rest of the United Kingdom and the highest in Western Europe. Government data cited by the Associated Press revealed that in the previous year, Scotland, with a population of only 5.5 million, witnessed 1,330 fatal drug overdoses.
In response to this alarming situation, the Scottish government published a policy paper last Friday, expressing deep empathy for the families and communities affected by each drug-related death. They acknowledged the urgent need for comprehensive measures and emphasised their consistent stance on adopting a radical public health approach to combat the drug emergency.
Drawing inspiration from Portugal’s drug policy, where criminal penalties were replaced by health-oriented reforms in 2001, the Scottish government proposed a similar decriminalization strategy. They believe such a plan would eliminate the fear of seeking treatment and support, thereby reducing drug-related harm and ultimately improving lives.
Additionally, the government intends to advocate for the establishment of supervised drug consumption sites, which have proven to save lives and encourage individuals struggling with substance misuse to seek assistance. They also put forth the idea of introducing regulated drug supplies to ensure consistency and safety.
Scottish drugs minister Elena Whitham highlighted the urgency of implementing a radical shift in drug policy, expressing concern over the increasing prevalence of synthetic opioids and new street benzodiazepines. She emphasised that without adequate 21st-century drug laws, Scotland would be ill-prepared to face the potential consequences.
Whitham’s apprehension stemmed from the belief that the situation would only worsen unless significant changes were made. The Scottish government aims to confront the crisis head-on by adopting innovative drug policy approaches, ensuring their citizens’ well-being and preventing further harm.
UK Government Stands Firm Against Drug Decriminalization
However, conservatives in both Scotland and the national government of the United Kingdom opposed the proposal for drug decriminalization. In Scotland, the current policy allows individuals caught in possession of drugs to receive a police warning, but complete decriminalization would necessitate approval from the conservative government in London. Max Blain, spokesperson for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, stated that such approval would not be granted.
Blain asserted, “There are no intentions to modify our firm stance on drugs.” The U.K. Home Office echoed this sentiment in a statement following Scotland’s decriminalization plan, emphasising their commitment to preventing drug use through treatment and recovery support, as well as addressing the supply of illegal drugs as outlined in their 10-year drugs strategy. They firmly stated that there were no plans to decriminalize drugs due to the associated harms, including the risks posed by organised criminals who exploit and engage in violence to further their illicit businesses.
Russell Findlay, the justice spokesperson for the Scottish Conservative Party, criticised the decriminalization proposal, describing it as “madness” to address Scotland’s drug death crisis, the most severe in Europe, by effectively legalising class-A drugs such as heroin and crack. Findlay expressed concern that such a move would increase drug availability on the streets, ultimately jeopardising more lives.
Evaluating the Impact of Drug Decriminalization
The proposal to decriminalize drugs in Scotland has ignited a vigorous and polarising debate among experts, policymakers, and the general public. With passionate arguments on both sides, the potential implications of such a policy change are being closely examined and assessed.
Drug decriminalization supporters presented strong justifications for their position. They argue that eliminating criminal sanctions for drug possession would get rid of the stigma and obstacles that keep people from getting the care they need. According to supporters, decriminalization would lead to better access to support and treatment programs, reducing drug-related harm and advancing public health. Additionally, they contend that this change would free up law enforcement to concentrate on bringing down sophisticated drug trafficking operations and upending organised crime networks.
However, opponents raise valid concerns about the potential risks associated with drug decriminalization. They expressed apprehension that it could increase drug availability and usage, potentially exacerbating the existing drug crisis. Detractors worry that decriminalization might send a misleading message about drug use, normalising or even encouraging substance abuse. Additionally, they voice fears regarding public safety and the potential for an increase in drug-related offences such as theft or violence.
The ongoing discourse and examination of these potential consequences highlight the intricate nature of addressing the drug crisis. It emphasises the requirement for a thorough strategy that carefully balances public health issues, social issues, and the larger influence on society. As the discussion continues, it is essential to carefully weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages of drug decriminalization to choose the most sensible and successful course of action.
Bottom Line
The government’s plea for drug decriminalization in Scotland in an effort to tackle the devastating overdose crisis has ignited a heated debate. While proponents argue that decriminalization would promote public health and access to treatment, opponents express concerns about potential risks and the impact on public safety. The opposing views of the Scottish and UK conservative governments highlight the complexity of addressing the drug crisis. As the discussions continue, finding a balanced and effective solution that prioritises the well-being of individuals remains a crucial challenge.
SCOTLAND’S MOVE TO LEGALIZE, 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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