Cannabis News
The Amount of THC in Your System Does Not Determine Impairment When Driving Says New Federal Government Report
Why Testing impairment with THC levels is not an accurate benchmark
When it comes to stoner culture, there’s an unwritten understanding that reverberates through the smoke-filled rooms of seasoned stoners: the presence of THC in your system is not a definitive marker of impairment. This nuanced perspective, born out of countless personal experiences and observations, contrasts sharply with the blunt instrument approach adopted by law enforcement agencies across the nation.
For years, the legal threshold of THC content in one’s bloodstream has been wielded like a gavel, ready to pronounce judgement on one’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. But the science behind this method of assessment is far from settled, and voices from within the very institutions that enforce these rules are beginning to question their validity.
Enter the arena, a researcher from the Justice Department, who recently cast a spotlight on the glaring discrepancies between THC levels and actual impairment, especially among those who consume cannabis regularly. This acknowledgment from a figure within a federal agency marks a significant pivot in the conversation around cannabis, driving, and the law.However, we have had federal judges make comments which impacted absolutely nothing save for a few stoners who said, “Look, the feds agree!”
Nonetheless, it’s a recognition that the current metrics might not just be flawed but could be fundamentally misaligned with the realities of cannabis consumption and its effects on the human body.
The implications of this critique extend far beyond the legal skirmishes on the roadside; they touch on the very heart of how society understands, regulates, and integrates cannabis use within the framework of daily life.
This article aims to dive deep into the murky waters of THC impairment testing while driving. We’ll explore the scientific underpinnings (or lack thereof) that inform current policies, the peculiarities of THC metabolism that challenge the notion of a one-size-fits-all impairment standard, and the potential paths forward in creating a more nuanced and just system of evaluation. Through this exploration, we seek to illuminate the complexities of cannabis impairment, advocating for a shift from rigid, THC-centric measures towards approaches that genuinely reflect an individual’s capacity to drive safely.
A recent Justice Department research says states may need to “get away from” per se THC limits for determining cannabis impairment while driving.
“The problem is we’ve funded this research that pretty conclusively shows that the THC concentration in the blood is not particularly well-correlated with impairment for driving,” said Frances Scott, a DOJ physical scientist, on a recent podcast. “Maybe what we need to do is kind of get away from that idea that we can sort of have a number when it comes to marijuana and have that mean that you’re impaired.”
One major issue is that frequent and infrequent marijuana users metabolize THC differently. “If you have chronic users versus infrequent users, they have very different concentrations correlated to different effects,” Scott explained. “So the same effect level, if you will, will be correlated with a very different concentration of THC in the blood of a chronic user versus an infrequent user.”
A recent study funded by the federal government identified new methods to test for recent cannabis use that accounts for lingering THC metabolites (Hound Labs, 2022). But we still lack “a good metric” for impairment.
“With alcohol, we per se laws—that’s the 0.08 [blood alcohol content], right?” said Scott. “If we demonstrate that your blood alcohol content is over 0.08, that’s all I have to do to prove impairment.”
But THC is more complex. “Maybe it’s not a blood measure or a breath measure,” she said. While the Justice Department continues researching a marijuana breathalyzer, they’re also funding alternative tests like saliva swabs and assessments of eye functioning.
Some research has found little link between THC blood levels and crash risk. A 2019 study concluded drivers at the legal limit of 2-5 ng/mL were no more likely to crash than sober drivers (Sewell, 2019). And a Congressional Research Service review found “conflicting results” on crashes and THC levels (CRS, 2019).
With unclear science, lawmakers want clarity. A 2022 House bill supported developing “an objective standard” for marijuana impairment. And Senator John Hickenlooper requested an update on research barriers inhibiting standardized cannabis impairment tests.
But the path forward remains unclear. “We may need better tests,” said Scott. Until then, per se THC limits seem unreliable for determining driver impairment.
With blood THC levels an unreliable metric, the question lingers: how can we accurately measure marijuana impairment, especially for drivers? The path forward is unclear.
“We may need better tests,” said DOJ researcher Frances Scott recently. But until new technology emerges, assessing impairment likely requires in-person evaluations. These could gauge reaction times, decision-making abilities, and motor coordination through tablet apps or roadside maneuvers.
One app, DRUID, claims to measure marijuana impairment. I once interviewed its developer, who said DRUID assesses hand-eye coordination, time estimation, and inhibitory control. While results aren’t foolproof, it aims to provide an objective benchmark. But most law enforcement lacks access to such apps currently.
Thus, we largely rely on field sobriety tests for cannabis. These include the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, which measures jerky eye movements linked to intoxication. But results aren’t cannabis-specific and such exams bring subjectivity. “There are no conclusive tests to measure marijuana impairment,” said Jolene Forman of the Drug Policy Alliance.
Plus, even if a driver seems impaired, determining the substance’s role is tough. “Because cannabis can be detected in bodily fluids for up to a month after last use, it is inherently difficult to determine whether or not an individual operated a vehicle while impaired,” said NORML deputy director Paul Armentano.
This lack of clarity poses issues headed toward potential federal legalization. Those impaired on marijuana may dodge charges today. And frequent consumers like medical patients might fail sobriety tests despite no recent use.
“Someone who consumes cannabis daily or multiple times per day is more likely to have residual THC in their system that exceeds per se limits but is not necessarily impaired,” said Armentano.
Until we have better impairment measures, the clearest way forward is two-fold. One, set traffic safety laws based on actual impairment versus THC levels. Two, improve and standardize field impairment exams to rely less on blood draws and more on observable intoxication signs. There is no panacea currently to determine cannabis impairment for drivers. But bolstering roadside exams can help clarify justice, especially as marijuana gains legal traction nationwide.
Determining cannabis impairment for drivers remains a perplexing challenge. Unlike alcohol tests, THC blood levels don’t accurately gauge intoxication. “We may need better tests,” said Scott. But until then, we must base roadside impairment on observables not numbers.
Still, accurately measuring marijuana intoxication levels is crucial, especially headed toward likely federal legalization. Relying solely on subjective sobriety exams brings inconsistencies in charges and convictions. And without clarity, frequent consumers like medical patients may fail tests despite no recent usage due to lingering THC.
“Because cannabis can be detected in bodily fluids for up to a month after last use, it is inherently difficult to determine whether or not an individual operated a vehicle while impaired,” said Armentano.
The need for innovation is urgent. Apps like DRUID show early promise in objectively measuring cannabis impairment via assessments of motor skills and cognitive functioning. While not yet foolproof, technology may propel solutions.
“There are no conclusive tests to measure marijuana impairment,” said Forman. Conclusiveness is needed to determine driver fitness, administer justice properly, and shape intelligent roadway policies centered on actual intoxication levels versus metabolism technicalities.
Whoever cracks the code on measuring cannabis impairment stands to gain big. Not only fame as a champion of safe, legal marijuana access, but likely billions in technology licensing and implementation.
“That’s also well-understood,” said Scott on alcohol tests’ accuracy. We need similar understanding of marijuana markers that determine real-time impairment regardless of usage frequency. Until then, the race is on to develop reliable cannabis tests to clarify justice, better protect all motorists, and allow informed usage policies for marijuana-friendly worlds ahead. The innovator who creates a foolproof impairment gauge will help drive that future while securing their own fortune.
SOURCE URL: https://www.marijuanamoment.net/scientists-develop-new-method-to-test-
for-recent-marijuana-use-with-96-accuracy-in-federally-funded-driving-simulation-study/
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DRIVING HIGH – HOW HIGH IS TOO HIGH WHEN IT COMES TO DRIVING?
“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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