Starting March 1, 2025, medicinal cannabis users in Victoria will no longer face an automatic driving ban for testing positive for THC, provided they are not impaired and are following a prescription. This legislative change is a significant step forward, granting more autonomy to medicinal cannabis users who rely on their treatment without the fear of losing their driving privileges.

Key Takeaways

• Medicinal Cannabis and Licensing: Victoria’s law no longer mandates a six-month ban solely for THC presence in medicinal users, as long as there’s no impairment.
• Court Discretion: Magistrates can now decide whether a patient with a THC-positive test can retain their license based on their adherence to medical guidelines and lack of impairment.
• Road Safety and Research: The Victorian Government’s closed-circuit driving trial will provide data on how medicinal cannabis impacts driving, paving the way for more informed policies.
• Looking Forward: With medicinal cannabis usage on the rise and more data being gathered, this amendment could set a precedent for other states and territories.

New Legislation: A Breakthrough for Medicinal Cannabis Patients

Under the Road Safety Amendment (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2023, magistrates now have the authority to allow medicinal cannabis patients to retain their licenses, assuming no signs of impairment and adherence to a doctor’s prescription. Previously, the 1mere presence of THC in a driver’s system, regardless of impairment, triggered a six-month license suspension.

Legalise Cannabis Victoria, along with advocates and medicinal users, have praised the amendment. MP Rachel Payne highlighted that this change will allow thousands to take prescribed cannabis without the fear of losing their license, enabling better pain management without compromising their mobility and independence.

What This Means for Drivers in Victoria

For medicinal cannabis users, this change is monumental. Despite cannabis’s therapeutic benefits, many patients were hesitant to use it due to stringent driving laws. THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, can linger in the body for days, even after impairment has faded, which put many at risk of failing roadside tests.

Now, licensed users have the chance to appear before a magistrate, who can consider their medical needs and driving history before deciding on any penalties.

World-First Closed-Circuit Driving Trial in 2024

To ensure road safety alongside patient rights, the Victorian Government has launched a unique trial in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology. This closed-circuit trial will simulate real-world driving scenarios to study the impact of medicinal cannabis on driver behavior and performance, especially regarding THC levels that linger post-use but don’t impair driving.

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• Accidental THC Infusion: Famous Yeti’s Pizza in Wisconsin accidentally served THC-infused pizzas, surprising customers with unexpected psychoactive effects.
• THC and High-Fat Foods: THC binds strongly with fats, creating a more intense and lasting high when consumed in fatty foods like pizza.
• Slow but Potent Effects: Unlike smoking, where effects kick in within minutes, edibles take longer but result in stronger, sustained effects due to how THC is metabolized.
• Unexpected Source: The THC contamination was traced back to oil stored in a shared kitchen, also used by a vendor who produces THC-infused brownies.
• A Learning Moment: This incident highlights the differences in how cannabis interacts with food compared to alcohol, with fats increasing THC’s effects instead of reducing them.

In a twist no one saw coming, a pizza shop in Wisconsin, Famous Yeti’s Pizza, found itself at the center of a bizarre story. Patrons at the popular spot reported feeling strange after enjoying their slices, and soon, the unexpected culprit was revealed: THC oil, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, had somehow made its way into the pizzas.

“This is incredibly serious to us, and we can’t imagine anything worse than betraying the faith our customers have in us to provide a product made with utmost care and concern,” said Cale Ryan, co-owner of Famous Yeti’s, in a heartfelt Facebook post on October 25. “If we’ve lost your trust and you decide never to return, I completely understand.”

The shop identified the mix-up on October 22 and 23, realizing that THC-infused oil had been used in around 71 orders, leading to a food experience no one anticipated.

Why Does THC in Pizza Pack Such a Punch?

While eating raw cannabis won’t cause a high, things change when it’s cooked, explains Darin Erickson from the University of Minnesota’s Cannabis Research Center. In edibles, like the accidental THC pizza, cannabis is often infused into fats or oils, which are then used as ingredients in various foods. This method activates the THC, making it effective when ingested.

Here’s where it gets even more interesting: THC is absorbed faster and more intensely when combined with fatty foods. “Eating high-fat foods can make edibles stronger” said Erickson. Unlike smoking, where effects are felt in just a few minutes, ingesting THC takes longer — up to an hour — but often results in a longer, more intense high.

How Fat Affects Cannabis Absorption

Tory Spindle, a psychiatry professor at Johns Hopkins University, explains that fats increase cannabinoid absorption, meaning THC-rich oils create stronger effects than those found in non-fatty carriers. The interaction of THC with food is almost the opposite of alcohol, where food generally reduces its effects.

“This increased absorption means that a person would feel stronger effects than if the THC was suspended in something that was not fatty,” Spindle explains. This distinction can catch people off guard, especially those unfamiliar with how edibles work.

The Source of the Mix-Up

Famous Yeti’s shares a commercial kitchen space with other vendors, one of whom produces THC-infused brownies. Ryan knew about this vendor but didn’t initially suspect THC was behind the reports of “strange reactions” to the pizza. At first, he assumed it might be due to a contaminated ingredient, like spinach, or even a possible carbon monoxide leak, which prompted a check from the local fire department.

When the truth came out, it was clear that a simple mix-up in the shared kitchen led to a very unusual dining experience. And while recreational cannabis isn’t yet legal in Wisconsin, this incident has brought attention to the role of fat in amplifying THC’s effects in unexpected ways.

This story is a unique reminder of the unexpected twists that can happen in the culinary world and how science plays a role even in our daily meals. For Famous Yeti’s Pizza, it’s a lesson in quality control — and for the rest of us, it’s an interesting look at the unexpected effects that can come from the foods we eat.

In an exciting step forward, the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has announced a clinical trial scheduled for 2025. The trial will explore the potential benefits of medical cannabis in treating refractory epilepsy, a severe form of the disorder that resists conventional treatments. This trial marks a critical moment in medical cannabis research, particularly for patients who have exhausted other options.

Key Takeaways:

• NHS Trial in 2025: The NHS will trial cannabis-based treatments for refractory epilepsy in adults and children.
• Trial Design: Led by University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital, the trial will involve 500 participants over 24 weeks, testing both CBD and THC products.
• Goal: The trial seeks to provide scientific evidence on the effectiveness of cannabis for seizure control and quality of life.
• Potential Policy Impact: Success could lead to wider medical cannabis access in the UK.
• Supply: Ananda Developments will provide the cannabis for the trial.

Addressing a Critical Need

Refractory epilepsy affects both adults and children, leading to frequent and severe seizures that are often unmanageable with standard anti-epileptic drugs. Many patients and families have been advocating for broader access to cannabis-based treatments, given anecdotal reports of reduced seizures with cannabis extracts, particularly cannabidiol (CBD).

However, much of the evidence so far remains limited, and regulated trials are essential to build clinical knowledge and ensure safety. The NHS’s trial aims to bridge this gap by providing rigorous data on the impact of cannabis on epilepsy patients.

Structure of the Trial

The study will be led by experts from University College London (UCL) and Great Ormond Street Hospital, two major institutions with experience in neurological research. The trial will involve around 500 participants, both adults and children, who suffer from refractory epilepsy. These individuals will be monitored over a 24-week period to assess changes in seizure frequency, sleep quality, behavior, and overall quality of life.

One unique aspect of this trial is that it will examine the effects of both CBD-only products and formulations containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. This dual approach will allow researchers to evaluate whether THC adds any significant therapeutic benefit in combination with CBD.

Potential Impact on Medical Cannabis Policy

If the trial yields positive results, it could pave the way for broader NHS prescriptions of cannabis-based products. Currently, access to medical cannabis in the UK is tightly regulated, with only a handful of patients receiving it through specialist prescriptions. This study could provide the evidence policymakers need to expand access and offer more patients this potentially life-changing treatment.

Supply Chain and Research Collaboration

The trial will be supported by Ananda Developments, a UK-based company specializing in the cultivation and supply of pharmaceutical-grade cannabis. Ananda’s involvement ensures a consistent and high-quality product for the trial, a crucial factor in maintaining the integrity of the research.

Conclusion

The NHS trial set for 2025 offers new hope to individuals and families affected by refractory epilepsy. If successful, it could reshape the medical cannabis landscape in the UK, making these treatments more accessible to patients in need. The results will not only impact public health policy but could also inspire further research into cannabis-based therapies for other chronic conditions.

This initiative is a promising step toward validating the therapeutic potential of cannabis while balancing safety and scientific rigor. As families across the UK wait for the trial to begin, many are hopeful that this study will mark the beginning of a new era in epilepsy treatment.

Past UK Cannabis Studies

The value of real world evidence: The case of medical cannabis (Schlag et al., 2022)

• This paper explores the challenges of using randomized controlled trials for cannabis-based products and highlights the importance of real-world evidence in expanding patient access and understanding the effects of cannabis-based medications.

Developing a real-world evidence base for prescribed cannabis in the United Kingdom: Preliminary findings from Project Twenty21 (Sakal et al., 2021)

• Project Twenty21 focuses on gathering real-world data on the effectiveness and safety of medical cannabis prescribed in the UK. Initial findings indicate improvements in health outcomes and patient-reported well-being.

Medical cannabis in the UK: From principle to practice (Schlag et al., 2020)

• This study discusses the gap between patient demand for medical cannabis and the limited availability of prescriptions through the NHS, exploring solutions to address this disparity.

An observational study of safety and clinical outcome measures across patient groups in the United Kingdom Medical Cannabis Registry (Olsson et al., 2023)

• The study reports on clinical outcomes and safety of cannabis-based medicines, indicating improvements in patient-reported outcomes across chronic conditions with relatively few adverse events.

An updated analysis of clinical outcome measures across patients from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry (Ergisi et al., 2022)

• This paper presents further analysis of patient outcomes, finding significant improvements in anxiety, sleep, and overall quality of life among cannabis users.

Photo by Nicolas J Leclercq on Unsplash

In a massive drug bust, Hong Kong customs officers have seized 500kg of cannabis buds with an estimated street value of HK$130 million (US$167 million). This bust, uncovered in a shipment of soybeans from Canada, has pushed the total amount of cannabis confiscated in 2024 to a staggering 2.6 tonnes. This marks an 80% increase in cannabis seizures compared to the same period last year.

The discovery, made on September 27, highlights the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks and the vigilance of Hong Kong’s Customs and Excise Department. The cannabis was hidden within 83 sacks of soybeans in a sea shipment from Canada, with traffickers attempting to evade detection by using vacuum-sealed bags to suppress the drug’s odor and strategically placing the sacks at the bottom of the shipment.

Cannabis Trafficking in Hong Kong: A Growing Concern

This latest haul is part of a broader rise in drug seizures across Hong Kong. Assistant Superintendent Jacky Tsang Kin-bon of the customs’ drugs investigation bureau reported that the amount of cannabis seized this year had already surpassed the total found in 2023. Hong Kong authorities have been ramping up efforts to disrupt these criminal networks through intelligence sharing and advanced risk assessment strategies targeting air, sea, and land shipments.

The arrests include a 54-year-old man, who was apprehended when he arrived to collect the shipment, as well as a 44-year-old woman and a 55-year-old man who were arrested days later. All three are facing charges of trafficking in a dangerous drug, an offence punishable by up to life imprisonment and a HK$5 million fine.

Increasing Street Value of Cannabis

Interestingly, the seizure has also had ripple effects on Hong Kong’s underground cannabis market. A previous bust in February saw 570kg of cannabis buds confiscated from a Fanling warehouse, significantly disrupting supply chains. In fact, the price of cannabis on the black market has surged, rising to HK$270 per gram in July, up 30% from HK$200 per gram in March.

This spike in price reflects both the scarcity of supply following major seizures and the ongoing demand for the drug, despite its illegal status in Hong Kong.

Regional and International Cooperation

Customs authorities in Hong Kong have attributed their success to a robust network of international and regional cooperation. As Tsang pointed out, they are working closely with mainland China and overseas law enforcement agencies to combat the trafficking of illegal drugs. The continued collaboration is crucial in identifying and dismantling drug distribution networks, as investigations into the source of the cannabis and the criminals’ distribution networks are still ongoing.

Growing Cannabis Seizures Reflect Increased Smuggling Efforts

Seizures of cannabis have surged dramatically in 2024, with authorities confiscating over 3,021kg of the drug between January and July, marking a 108% increase from the 1,449kg seized in the same period last year. This trend highlights the increased efforts by smugglers to exploit Hong Kong’s busy trade routes while also reflecting the growing global cannabis market.

Photo: Photo by Andrew Jephson on Unsplash

Cannabis lovers in Sacramento could soon have a new place to unwind and enjoy their favorite herb, as the city moves closer to allowing cannabis consumption lounges. Think of it as a café or bar—but instead of alcohol, it’s all about marijuana. Sounds pretty cool, right? These lounges could redefine how cannabis is experienced socially, offering a unique, communal space for cannabis enthusiasts.

What Exactly Is a Cannabis Lounge?

For those unfamiliar, a cannabis lounge is a designated public space where people can legally consume cannabis in a social setting. Picture a laid-back atmosphere where friends can gather, chat, and enjoy weed together—kind of like the vibes you’d get from a cozy coffee shop or a trendy cocktail lounge, but with the added twist of legal cannabis consumption.

The concept has already taken root in cities like San Francisco, West Hollywood, and Denver, where cannabis lounges have become a hit. Visitors get the chance to try different strains, infused beverages, or edibles in a comfortable environment, without having to worry about breaking any laws or disturbing neighbors. And Sacramento? Well, it seems to be gearing up to join that list.

Sacramento’s Move Towards Cannabis Lounges

As Sacramento eyes the legalization of cannabis lounges, officials are working on crafting the right regulations to bring these social consumption spaces to life. According to recent reports, city council members are discussing the potential zoning, safety measures, and overall structure for these lounges. One of the major factors driving this is the desire to expand the local cannabis market and attract tourists looking for a unique experience.

There’s definitely a sense of excitement, both from the cannabis community and local businesses that could benefit from the increased foot traffic. Think about it: cannabis tourists from all over could soon be flocking to Sacramento to experience a different side of cannabis culture. And it’s not just about the consumers—local dispensaries and businesses could also see a boost.

According to Sacramento’s Office of Cannabis Management, lounges could be a way to bridge the gap between cannabis consumers and the city’s economic growth. Not to mention, it gives residents who live in housing where smoking or vaping is prohibited a safe, legal space to enjoy their cannabis products.

Why Cannabis Lounges Matter

So why is this such a big deal? It’s not just about giving people a cool new hangout spot. Cannabis lounges represent a broader shift in how cannabis is viewed and integrated into daily life. For so long, cannabis consumption has been stigmatized, kept behind closed doors, and treated as something that had to be hidden. But with the rise of these lounges, cannabis is moving into the mainstream, being treated more like alcohol—a substance that can be enjoyed responsibly in a social setting.

One of the great things about cannabis lounges is that they create an environment where education and socializing meet. People can learn about different strains, how to consume cannabis responsibly, and even explore products they might not have considered before, all while having a chill time with friends. It’s also a chance for cannabis brands to interact directly with their audience in real-time, which is pretty rare in most retail settings.

Safety and Regulation: What’s the Plan?

Of course, like with any public consumption space, safety is a top priority. Sacramento officials are being very careful to ensure that these lounges don’t contribute to impaired driving or disrupt the surrounding community. Regulations around cannabis lounges are expected to be strict, likely involving designated consumption zones, limitations on operating hours, and clear rules about intoxicated customers leaving the premises.

To combat potential issues, some experts suggest that lounges should partner with ride-share services or offer in-house options for customers who may need help getting home safely. In addition, Sacramento’s officials are also looking at other cities’ models to learn what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to balancing public safety with consumer enjoyment.

The Community’s Reaction

So far, the response from the community seems to be a mix of curiosity and optimism. Many people are excited about the idea of having a safe and welcoming place to enjoy cannabis socially. Local businesses, too, are paying attention—especially since lounges could boost tourism and bring more customers to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Some are concerned about potential nuisances like increased foot traffic, the smell of cannabis, or the possibility of lounges turning into hotspots for disruptive behavior. But as with any new development, much of the success will depend on how well Sacramento implements the rules and regulations to ensure these spaces remain enjoyable and respectful for everyone involved.

A New Era for Cannabis Culture

The introduction of cannabis lounges in Sacramento marks an exciting time for the city’s cannabis community. These spaces aren’t just about consumption—they’re about building connections, fostering education, and helping to remove the stigma that still surrounds cannabis use. As Sacramento inches closer to making these lounges a reality, we could soon see a vibrant new layer of the city’s social scene, one where cannabis isn’t hidden away but celebrated openly and responsibly.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s clear that cannabis lounges could bring a fresh energy to Sacramento’s culture. So the next time you’re thinking about meeting up with friends, maybe instead of a bar or café, you’ll be heading to the city’s newest cannabis lounge to unwind and enjoy the high.

In a groundbreaking move, New Mexico could soon be one of the first states to allow medical marijuana for female orgasm difficulty (FOD). The state’s Medical Cannabis Advisory Board recently voted to recommend adding FOD to the list of qualifying conditions for the state’s medical cannabis program, recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

How Cannabis Can Help with Female Orgasm Difficulty

Cannabis and sexual wellness is becoming a hot topic in the medical community, with many studies showing its benefits for improving sexual function. For women who experience difficulty reaching orgasm, cannabis could be a game-changer. Research indicates that cannabis can help by:

• Increasing orgasm ease: Studies show that 71% of women reported easier orgasms after using cannabis .
• Improving satisfaction: 67% of women said they experienced greater satisfaction during sex when using cannabis .
• Enhancing sexual desire: Cannabis has been linked to increased sexual desire and pleasure, especially when used in lower doses .

Why Medical Marijuana for FOD?

The science behind cannabis and orgasm difficulty lies in how cannabis interacts with the brain’s default mode network (DMN). This network can keep people stuck in their heads, blocking relaxation and pleasure. Cannabis helps quiet this network, making it easier for women to be present and experience orgasm.

Dr. Jordan Tishler, a specialist in cannabis and sexual function, explains that by disrupting overthinking and stress, cannabis creates a more relaxed mental state, allowing for better sexual experiences .

States Moving Towards Cannabis for Sexual Health

New Mexico is not alone in considering medical marijuana for sexual health. Other states like Connecticut, Illinois, Oregon, and Arkansas are also looking at adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs. Advocates like Suzanne Mulvehill, a clinical sexologist, are leading the charge, highlighting that millions of women worldwide suffer from FOD, and conventional treatments are scarce.

According to Mulvehill’s research, cannabis not only helps with orgasm difficulty but can improve overall sexual satisfaction . These findings have helped drive momentum for states to recognize female sexual health as a legitimate reason for medical cannabis use.

The Growing Body of Research on Cannabis and Sexual Function

A growing number of studies are exploring the connection between marijuana and sexual health. For example, research published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that more than 70% of adults who use cannabis before sex report increased desire and improved orgasms . Other studies have shown that women who use cannabis regularly report having better sex overall .

However, not all cannabis use is created equal. Studies show that THC dosage plays a role in sexual function. Lower doses of THC are often associated with heightened arousal and satisfaction, while higher doses may reduce desire or have no effect . This makes understanding the right strain and dosage crucial for maximizing the benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

Next Steps for New Mexico’s Medical Marijuana Program

The next step for New Mexico’s medical marijuana program is for the Secretary of Health to review the recommendation. If approved, women experiencing FOD could soon access cannabis as a treatment, offering them a new way to address sexual health issues that have historically been overlooked.

As more states consider adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs, the conversation about cannabis for sexual wellness continues to grow. Cannabis could be a powerful tool for closing the “orgasm gap” and helping women experience more satisfying sex lives.

Conclusion: Cannabis as a Tool for Better Sexual Health

With studies showing that medical marijuana can improve sexual function and satisfaction, it’s clear that cannabis holds potential in addressing female orgasm difficulty and other sexual health issues. As the conversation progresses in states like New Mexico, women may soon have access to a natural, plant-based treatment for improving their sexual well-being.

Sources:

1. Study on THC Dosage and Sexual Arousal
2. Effects of Cannabis on Orgasm Frequency
3. Cannabis and Default Mode Network
4. Research on Women, Cannabis, and Better Sex
5. Review on THC and Libido

Introduction

Ohio’s journey towards recreational cannabis legalization is progressing rapidly. With recent approvals for cultivation and processing licenses, the state is preparing for the anticipated launch of adult-use cannabis sales.

Key Developments

1. License Approvals: Ohio has issued 34 adult-use cannabis licenses, encompassing cultivators, processors, and testing laboratories. Notably, dispensaries are still awaiting their final approvals.
2. Cultivators and Processors: Among the recent approvals, prominent companies like Verano and Cresco Labs have received dual-use certificates for cultivation and processing.
3. Dispensary Status: Despite the issuance of numerous cultivation and processing licenses, no dispensaries have been green-lit yet, delaying the retail sales of adult-use cannabis.

Market Implications

The dual-use licenses will enable businesses to serve both medical and adult-use markets, fostering a robust cannabis supply chain. However, the market’s full functionality depends on the final approval of dispensary licenses.

Conclusion

Ohio’s cannabis market is on the brink of a significant transformation. As the state moves closer to legalizing adult-use cannabis, the emphasis on thorough licensing and regulatory processes ensures a well-structured and inclusive market.

Introduction

In a groundbreaking move, Missouri has awarded 57 cannabis microbusiness licenses as part of its initiative to diversify the cannabis industry and support small-scale businesses. This decision, announced by the Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation, marks a significant step towards fostering local economic growth and inclusivity in the state’s cannabis market.

Key Highlights

1. Promoting Diversity: These licenses are designed to ensure a more diverse representation within Missouri’s cannabis industry by providing opportunities for small businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs.
2. Economic Impact: The microbusiness licenses are expected to stimulate local economies, allowing smaller businesses to thrive in the burgeoning cannabis market.
3. Supporting Entrepreneurs: This initiative opens doors for new entrepreneurs, encouraging innovation and growth within the cannabis sector.

The Selection Process

The winners were selected through a lottery system, ensuring a fair and transparent process. This second round of licenses adds to the momentum of the first round, further solidifying Missouri’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive cannabis industry.

Conclusion

Missouri’s approach to awarding cannabis microbusiness licenses is a forward-thinking move that promotes diversity, economic growth, and entrepreneurial opportunities. By supporting small-scale businesses, the state is paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic cannabis market.