Cannabis News
The UK’s Cannabis Market is Worth Over $3.3 Billion a Year, Will Cancer Headlines Push Legalization Forward in England?
As NPR reported, Catherine, Princess of Wales, has cancer, she announced in a video message released by Kensington Palace on Friday, and is in the early stages of chemotherapy. In the video, the former Kate Middleton, 42, said the diagnosis was a “huge shock after an incredibly tough couple of months.”
The cancer was found during testing done after she successfully underwent major abdominal surgery in January, Kate said. She did not specify the type of cancer or its stage.
Would legal cannabis, or illciit cannabis be part of Kate’s possible treatment, depending on what cancer she has and at what stage the cancer is at? Does England have legal medical marijuana that has her cancer as a qualifing condition? If not, could Kate tap the illicit market for cannabis in England? A slipery slope for sure being part of the Royal Family, no?
The illegal cannabis market in Britain is now estimated to be worth £2.6 billion annually, posing a significant challenge for authorities due to the growing interest in its potential for pain relief. Despite being classified as a class-B illegal substance, the Institute of Economic Affairs’ market estimate underscores the substantial size of this underground trade.
According to findings from medical clinic Mamedica, annually, three million Britons access the illicit cannabis market, with over 600,000 purchasing it for self-medication purposes. Moreover, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly exploring cannabis as a treatment option for health conditions that have proven resistant to traditional medications, according to the firm’s analysis.
Recent reports from Mamedica indicate that nearly eight million chronic pain sufferers have unsuccessfully tried up to three different medications, spurring interest in medicinal cannabis. Globally, the medical cannabis market is presently valued at $13 billion, with projections indicating it could surge to over $57 billion by 2028.
Despite the increasing acknowledgment of cannabis’s therapeutic advantages, constraints within the UK’s public health services prevent general practitioners—73% of whom are willing to prescribe cannabis—from doing so, according to Mamedica. Jon Robson, Mamedica’s CEO, underscores the importance of raising awareness and improving accessibility to legal, regulated medical cannabis as pivotal steps toward transitioning users away from the illicit market, potentially fostering growth in this sector.
Since the UK government legalized medical cannabis in 2018, progress has been sluggish, with only 1,000 patients receiving licensed prescriptions compared to over 20,000 through private prescriptions. The privatization of the sector is identified as a driving force. Yet, the absence of licensed cannabis-based medicinal products remains a significant barrier.
Robson emphasizes the significance of customer experience and satisfaction in expanding the medical cannabis industry, highlighting notable quality challenges, cost, service, and supply chain challenges. He further notes that the intricate landscape of cannabis in the UK reflects a clash between long standing legal restrictions and a shifting perception toward its medical utility. This is coupled with the increasing accessibility and understanding of cannabis-based treatments.
The Current Legal Landscape
The ongoing discussion on cannabis legalization in the UK is gaining momentum, akin to the persistent growth of the weed plant. While nations worldwide are increasingly recognizing the advantages of legalized cannabis, the UK has been somewhat cautious, although there are signs of change.
Presently, cannabis in the UK is categorized as a Class B drug according to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. However, there’s a glimpse of advancement. Since November 2018, specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis-based medicines in the United Kingdom legally.
Nevertheless, the question persists for many: “Is cannabis legal in the UK?” The straightforward answer? No, not for recreational purposes. Nonetheless, Britain may not be far behind as global attitudes toward cannabis continue to evolve.
Decriminalisation Efforts, Public Opinion, and Economic Impact
In recent times, there has been a significant movement towards decriminalization. London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has taken steps to decriminalize drugs in the capital, sparking both praise and criticism.
Furthermore, public support for legalizing cannabis is on the rise, with reports suggesting that only 32% of the UK population opposes the idea. This shift in public opinion begs the question: “Will cannabis become legal in the UK soon?“
Apart from the social and health considerations, there’s a compelling economic incentive. Following the example of our German counterparts, a study estimated that legalizing cannabis could bolster the German economy by approximately £4bn annually and generate 27,000 new jobs.
Could the UK experience similar benefits? It’s plausible, given the burgeoning cannabis market already in existence.
Predicting Cannabis Legalisation in the UK
The global trend towards cannabis legalization, evident in various countries, including moves toward decriminalization and full legalization, prompts speculation about when cannabis might be fully legalized in the UK. Several factors contribute to this discussion:
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Global Trends: Observing countries like Canada and Uruguay, which have legalized recreational cannabis, can inform the UK’s decision-making process. Positive outcomes in these nations could influence UK policymakers.
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Medical Cannabis: The UK’s allowance for medical purposes in November 2018 indicates a changing perspective on the plant’s therapeutic potential.
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Public Opinion: Only 32% of UK residents oppose legal cannabis, according to a 2019 YouGov survey. However, increasing public support may pressure political parties to reconsider their stance over time.
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Economic Benefits: Countries like Germany, experiencing significant financial benefits from cannabis legalization, could prompt the UK to consider similar advantages, particularly amidst post-COVID-19 economic recovery efforts.
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Political Climate: The stance of political parties, especially those gaining support from younger and BIPOC voters, could influence the pace of cannabis legalization. A party advocating for legalization could accelerate the process if it gains prominence or forms a government.
Considering these factors, while pinpointing an exact timeline is challenging, a cautious estimate suggests that the UK could witness significant moves towards cannabis decriminalization or legalization within the next 5-10 years. This may begin with broader decriminalization efforts followed by regulated recreational use, similar to approaches in other countries.
However, predicting political outcomes, especially on contentious issues, entails uncertainty. Rapid changes could occur due to unforeseen events, shifts in public opinion, or evolving global trends.
The Changing Perception of Cannabis
Several factors are influencing the discourse surrounding cannabis legalization in the UK. Firstly, decriminalization is viewed as a potential avenue for addressing racial and social disparities. A recent analysis of police data by House of Commons researchers has indicated a decline in cannabis possession offenses. However, it has also revealed persistent racial biases in arrests and prosecutions, highlighting the need for reform in this area.
Additionally, the increasing recognition of the medical benefits of cannabis is shaping the conversation. Despite the legal complexities, products such as CBD flowers and hash are already widely available in the UK, underscoring the plant’s therapeutic potential and driving interest in further exploration and regulation.
Political platforms also play a role, with parties like Labour showcasing progressive stances on drug policies in their manifestos. This indicates a potential shift towards more liberal approaches to cannabis and drug regulation within the political landscape.
Looking ahead, the trajectory suggests that it’s not a matter of if but when the UK will legalize cannabis. Whether motivated by potential economic gains, societal advantages, or evolving public opinion, the momentum for legalizing cannabis in the UK is stronger than ever.
However, the road to full legalization will be marked by debates, research, and public discourse. Those curious about the current status of cannabis in the UK or pondering its legal status will need to monitor developments, anticipating potential shifts and hoping for progress towards a more permissive stance on cannabis use and regulation.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN THE UK, READ ON…
WHY ARE 17,000 MMJ PATIENTS IN ENGLAND USING THE ILLICIT MARKET?
“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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