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The Cannabis Substitution Effect – Why Big Pharma Isn’t Keen on Cannabis

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Don’t be fooled – Pharma isn’t very keen on cannabis

 

These days, I don’t really get into arguments when it comes to drug consumption, legalizing weed, etc. For the most part, the people I surround myself with are “drug-friendly” or “drug-tolerant” and understand that as an adult, I understand how to conduct myself under a wide range of substances.

 

In fact, apart from the occasional “buzz”, most people don’t ever get to see me “trip balls” as I have very peculiar protocols to safe and effective consumption.

 

For me, consuming LSD or Psilocybin isn’t about recreation – it’s about exploration and discovering the width and depth of my being.

 

However, “drugs” is one thing and “cannabis” is an entirely separate thing – despite it also being a “drug”.

 

The reason why cannabis is “different” is because it is relatively easy to cultivate, it isn’t “as intense” as other drugs and treats a wide range of ailments of humankind.

 

This is why Pharma has been so adamant in slowing down the legalization of cannabis. This is why “Schizophrenia studies” magically appear out of the blue with shoddy evidence and the infamous “need more research” clause to justify it’s “science”.

 

But under deeper scrutiny, you find that the results are often not replicable and the methods often “miss” many other potential triggers for psychotic episodes.

 

Now, some of you might say – “this dude is talking some conspiracy theory,” and while I do have a Phd in Conspiracies and assorted whacky shit – there is empirical evidence to show you why Pharma isn’t a fan of cannabis.

 

cannabis subsitution effect

image via Twitter

 

While the link on the image is a dead-link [I tried to track it down]. The truth is that cannabis has become a substitute for many people’s “pills”. This is hurting Pharma’s bottom line. They have had the world by the balls for decades.

 

The Controlled Substance Act of 1971, a landmark legislation in the United States, has often been associated with the pharmaceutical industry.

 

This act, signed into law by President Richard Nixon, established a framework for classifying and regulating drugs based on their potential for abuse and medical usefulness. While the act aimed to control drug abuse and protect public health, critics argue that it inadvertently created a favorable environment for Big Pharma.

 

One of the key aspects of the Controlled Substance Act was the authority it bestowed upon the pharmaceutical industry to control, manufacture, and conduct research on drugs. This power allowed pharmaceutical companies to dominate the drug market, leading to a virtual monopoly on drug research, distribution, and production. Through extensive lobbying efforts, the pharmaceutical industry played a significant role in shaping the legislation to its advantage.

 

By positioning themselves as the gatekeepers of drug development and distribution, pharmaceutical companies gained immense influence and control over the healthcare system. This influence translated into substantial profits and market dominance, as they became the primary providers of medication and treatment options.

 

Critics argue that the Controlled Substance Act effectively turned the United States government into enforcers for the pharmaceutical industry. The legislation provided a legal framework that consolidated the industry’s power and restricted competition from alternative medicines and treatments. This monopolistic control not only limited patient choices but also contributed to the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs.

 

While the “alleged” intention behind the Controlled Substance Act was to regulate drugs and protect public health, its implementation and subsequent influence of Big Pharma have sparked debates about the extent of corporate influence and the prioritization of profits over individual well-being.

 

It has underscored the need for a critical examination of the relationship between pharmaceutical companies, policymakers, and the healthcare system.

 

 

While the image reflects a survey, let’s assume for a moment that those numbers in the image translate to the wider marketplace. What if 76.6% of the population of the US switched to cannabis for pain management? How much money would Pharma lose if 76.6% of consumers stopped using their opioids?

 

I posed this question to Google Bard because, why not…and this is what it spewed out:

 

According to a 2019 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the total retail sales of prescription opioids in the United States was $26.8 billion. If 76.6% of consumers stopped using their opioids, the total retail sales of prescription opioids would be reduced to $6.5 billion. This would represent a loss of $20.3 billion for the pharmaceutical industry.

 

It is important to note that this is just a rough estimate, as the actual amount of money that the pharmaceutical industry would lose would depend on a number of factors, such as the specific opioids that consumers stopped using and the prices of those opioids. However, the estimate does provide a sense of the magnitude of the financial losses that the pharmaceutical industry would face if a significant number of consumers stopped using opioids.

 

It is also worth noting that the loss of revenue from opioid sales would not be the only financial impact of a decline in opioid use. The pharmaceutical industry would also face costs associated with the treatment of opioid addiction, as well as the costs of lawsuits filed by individuals who have been harmed by opioids.

 

Overall, the financial impact of a decline in opioid use would be significant for the pharmaceutical industry. The industry would lose revenue from opioid sales, and it would also face costs associated with the treatment of opioid addiction and lawsuits filed by individuals who have been harmed by opioids. – Google Bard, Artificial Intelligence

 

 

**Yes, I quoted a bot…they might remember my kind acts in the robot uprising.

 

According to Bard, “If 71% of all users of anxiety medicine stopped using it, the total retail sales of prescription anxiety medications would be reduced to $5.2 billion. This would represent a loss of $12.3 billion for the pharmaceutical industry.”

 

While this might be speculation by an advanced artificial intelligence, it does indicate the potential loss of revenue to an industry that has had the world by the balls for decades.

 

What would happen if people could simply grow their own cannabis at home to treat a myriad of diseases? Would we begin to see the decline of the pharma stronghold? Siphoning money through a rigged healthcare system – using public money to fund their parasitic practices.

 

 

 

Monopolies, by their very nature, tend to be detrimental to various aspects of society. Whether it’s the consumer, innovation, or the economy, the consequences of a monopoly can be far-reaching and negative. This holds true for the pharmaceutical industry, where the concentration of power has led to significant challenges and limitations.

 

One of the main downsides of monopolies is the negative impact on consumers. With limited competition, monopolistic companies can control prices, leading to inflated costs for essential medications. This restricts access to affordable healthcare and puts a burden on individuals and families. Moreover, monopolies often stifle innovation and discourage the development of alternative treatments or approaches. This lack of competition hinders progress, leaving consumers with limited choices and potentially inferior products.

 

In contrast, open-source projects provide a compelling example of the benefits of decentralization and collaboration. Open-source software, such as Linux and the Android operating system, has flourished due to its collaborative nature. By allowing developers around the world to contribute, share ideas, and build upon existing work, open-source projects often outperform closed projects in terms of innovation, reliability, and security. The success of these projects is rooted in the principles of open access and the free flow of information.

 

Applying this concept to the pharmaceutical industry, decentralizing drugs, and embracing open-source research could lead to a paradigm shift. By removing the current pharmaceutical monopoly and dismantling barriers to entry, a more diverse and inclusive landscape could emerge. This would foster innovation, promote competition, and ultimately benefit the consumer.

 

To decentralize drugs effectively, it would be crucial to establish new rules and regulations that prioritize patient well-being, safety, and affordability. This would require a comprehensive reevaluation of drug policies and a shift away from the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) framework. A call to nullify the CSA and adopt alternative approaches that promote decentralization and open research could be a powerful step toward transforming the pharmaceutical industry.

 

However, it’s important to recognize that such changes would require concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the public. Advocacy for decentralization, open research, and dismantling monopolistic structures is essential. By actively supporting decentralized approaches, individuals can contribute to a more equitable, innovative, and accessible healthcare system.

 

I’m not naive. I understand that what I’m talking about is probably not going to happen any time soon if ever. However, my hope is to sow these ideas into the general mass consciousness. Hopefully, enough of these little seeds take root for a revolution to blossom throughout time.

 

I hope this information finds you well…keep on smoking dear friends!

 

OPIOID USE WITH LEGAL CANNABIS, READ ON…

OPIOID USERS SWITCH TO CANNABIS

80% OF OPIOID USERS STOP OR DROP LEVELS OF OPIOIDS AFTER CANNABIS!





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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

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trump on marijuana reform

In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

TRUMP ON MARIJUANA REFORM

TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?

 



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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



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I Had Just One Puff

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one puff of a joint a drug test

“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..

how long does weed stay in your urine

HOW LONG DOES WEED STAY IN YOUR URINE FOR A DRUG TEST?



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