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New Study Reveals Cannabis Potentially Treats Melanoma Skin Cancer

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Recent research findings indicate that a specific cannabis extract possesses potential in impeding the proliferation of melanoma cells and promoting apoptosis.

A collaborative study conducted by researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) scrutinized the impact of cannabinoid PHEC-66, a concentrated cannabis extract developed by MGC Pharmaceuticals in Australia, on programmed cell death in melanoma cells.

The study, which was partially funded by MGC Pharmaceuticals Ltd. in Australia and was published in the Cells journal, highlights the link between the cannabis extract and receptors on melanoma cells, pointing to a potential additional therapeutic use for malignant melanoma. However, additional preclinical research is necessary to fully evaluate its effectiveness and potential.

RMIT-University

Despite making up a small percentage of skin cancer cases, melanoma—which is derived from melanocytes in the epidermis—is responsible for a substantial number of skin cancer-related deaths because of its tendency to spread and resistance to standard therapies.

There are currently few treatment options available for metastatic melanoma. However, new research suggests that several naturally occurring cannabis plant chemicals, like terpenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols, may have anticancer effects and may be useful in the treatment of melanoma.

Previous research has demonstrated that chemicals derived from plants can inhibit the growth of tumors at an early stage by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors, which in turn modulates other molecular pathways.

The current study shows that the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors interact with the cannabis extract PHEC-66 to inhibit the proliferation and motility of melanoma cells.

In order to verify the role of these receptors in mediating the lethal effects of PHEC-66, melanoma cells were treated with CB1 and CB2 antagonists. The outcomes show a noticeable rise in cell viability after receptor blocking.

Furthermore, the research notes distinct changes in receptor gene expression in melanoma cell lines after PHEC-66 treatment, indicating that CB1 and CB2 receptors play a role in the signaling pathways that are activated. Furthermore, the variation in response amongst cell lines highlights how intricate this relationship is.

Moreover, melanoma cell migration and proliferation have been shown to be inhibited by the cannabis extract PHEC-66, which contains mostly CBD, potentially preventing the spread of cancer. However, additional investigation is necessary to clarify the exact mechanisms behind PHEC-66’s binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in melanoma cells.

Interestingly, studies of the relationship between PHEC-66 and its receptors in the presence of particular blockers, AM251 and AM630, showed that the extract primarily depends on CB2 receptor activation in all tested melanoma cell lines for its growth-inhibitory actions.

In summary, this study underscores the ability of PHEC-66 to attenuate melanoma cell growth through interactions with CB1 and CB2 receptors, thereby influencing metabolic pathways and cell cycle progression, ultimately culminating in apoptosis and reduced tumor growth. Further research is imperative to elucidate its therapeutic potential in advanced-stage melanoma, particularly in combination therapies and utilizing advanced experimental models.

While offering a glimmer of hope in cancer therapeutics, the translation of these findings into clinical applications necessitates rigorous scientific scrutiny, including animal experiments and human clinical trials, to ensure safety and efficacy.

In essence, this study highlights how PHEC-66 can effectively slow down the growth of melanoma cells by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors. These interactions impact important cellular processes like metabolism and cell cycle, ultimately leading to cell death and decreased tumor growth. However, further research is crucial to fully understand its potential in treating advanced melanoma, especially when combined with other therapies and tested in more advanced experimental models.

While these findings provide hope for improved cancer treatments, they must be subjected to rigors scientific testing. This comprises animal research, followed by human clinical trials. Only through thorough research will we be able to ensure the safety and efficacy of translating these discoveries into real-world patient therapies.

How do I get access to medical cannabis in Australia?

Accessing medicinal cannabis in Australia began in 2016, but it was very costly, and not everyone had access. Almost 9 years later, we have access to over 200 medications, with new brands and suppliers regularly entering the Australian market with various consumption methods i.e. oral liquid, flower, vape carts, and edibles.

To reduce the stress and worry associated with access to alternative chronic pain management choices, I often advise new patients to seek out pharmacies or dispensaries which specialize in medicinal cannabis.

These clinics have highly qualified pharmacists who can provide guidance and empathize with their patients. During my own journey, I explored a number of clinics, but none of them offered the personalized treatment that I found at Astrid Dispensary. They’re a boutique plant-based pharmacy who are dedicated to providing a safe space and providing the best patient experience.

What impressed me the most was the thorough Doctors appointment and the range of medication, they have pretty much every day, if a product is not in stock, it can be ordered in and received in a mattery of days – long as the supplier is in stock.

If you’re in Melbourne or Byron Bay you can simply pick up from their dispensaries’ at either location. To get started, all I did was go to their online clinic and fill out the pre-screening questionnaire, and book an initial doctors consultation via the Astrid Dispensary + Clinic website, and I was on my way. Because the dispensary and clinic are integrated, it makes it easier to manage and access your scripts.

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TGA Medicinal Cannabis Advertising Laws (December 2023)

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This month the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) made changes to the medicinal cannabis advertising laws. During the 2022-23 period, the TGA issued 101 infringement notices, amounting to $1,292,040, for suspected unauthorized advertising of medicinal cannabis.

What is the TGA?

In Australia, the TGA is in charge of regulating therapeutic goods, which include medications, medical equipment, and vaccinations. Before they may be lawfully supplied in the nation, it evaluates their efficacy, safety, and quality.

When Did Australia legalize Medicinal Cannabis?

In October 2016, Australia legalised medicinal cannabis. The government changed the legislation to allow institutions to grow cannabis for scientific purposes and the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals. Growing cannabis for personal use is still prohibited everywhere other than the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

What Are The New TGA Updates?

The TGA have published an article stating the updates, in the words of the TGA, they’ve advised the below:

“This prohibition extends to the use of synonymous words for medicinal cannabis in advertisements such as ‘plant medicine’, or any word that becomes colloquially known as, or synonymous with, medicinal cannabis, as well as the use of medicinal cannabis in business names including logos or pictures.”source

The screenshot below is an example of something that the TGA may flag:

Cannabis-Advertising-TGA

image: screenshot taken on 25.12.23


For all clinics, doctors, pharmacists, and suppliers, I advise you to remove any creative content or signage containing the term “plant-based medicine”. The TGA seem to be cracking down and playing catch up with all brands and cannabis clinics (rightfully so). This change is going to make it even more difficult in an industry already facing rigorous compliance demands.

Here is a list of words and term which may be suitable:

  • Natural therapies
  • Holistic wellness solutions
  • Natural healing remedies

Please check with your compliant team, I won’t be responsible for you receiving a fine.

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CBD for Pets: 5 Life-Transforming Benefits That Empower Dogs

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CBD (cannabidiol) has grown in popularity in recent years as a result of its possible medicinal properties in both people and animals. CBD for pets, particularly dogs, has piqued the curiosity of pet owners and veterinarians. In this post, we will present a general overview of CBD for pets as well as five potential CBD benefits for dogs.

A Brief Overview of CBD for Pets: CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive chemical obtained from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) found in animals, including dogs, which regulates a variety of physiological functions. CBD products for pets are primarily sourced from cannabis plants, which are 100% THC free(tetrahydrocannabinol), cannabis’s psychoactive component.

Benefits of CBD for Dogs

1. Alleviates Anxiety and Stress

CBD has been found to have anxiolytic properties, making it useful for dogs experiencing anxiety or stress-related conditions. It may help dogs with separation anxiety, noise phobias, travel anxiety, or general anxiety disorders. Several studies have shown that CBD can potentially reduce anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain[^1].

2. Manages Pain and Inflammation

CBD exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it potentially beneficial for dogs with chronic pain, arthritis, or inflammation-related conditions. CBD may help reduce pain perception and inflammation by interacting with receptors in the ECS and modulating the immune response[^2].

3. Supports Joint Health

As dogs age, they may develop joint issues, such as osteoarthritis, which can affect their mobility and quality of life. CBD may offer potential benefits by reducing inflammation in the joints, thereby providing relief from pain and improving joint function[^3].

4. Enhances Appetite and Digestion

Loss of appetite and digestive issues can be common in dogs, especially when they are undergoing treatments or recovering from illness. CBD has shown promise in stimulating appetite and improving digestion by interacting with receptors in the ECS and regulating appetite-related hormones[^4].

5. Promotes Calmness and Sleep

CBD may help dogs with sleep disorders, restlessness, or insomnia. It has been reported to have sedative effects, which can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. By acting on receptors in the ECS, CBD may regulate sleep-wake cycles and help dogs achieve a more restful sleep[^5].

In the CBD market for dogs, a variety of products are available to cater to different preferences and needs. These products are specially formulated to deliver CBD in a safe and convenient way for dogs. Some of the common CBD products for dogs include biscuits, treats, and oils.

CBD-Infused Biscuits and Treats

These products are designed to provide a tasty and enjoyable way to administer CBD to dogs. They often come in various flavors and sizes, making it easy to find options that suit your dog’s preferences. CBD-infused biscuits and treats are convenient for daily use and can be incorporated into your dog’s regular routine.

CBD Oils

CBD oils for dogs are typically administered orally. They come in bottles with droppers for precise dosage control. CBD oils are versatile and can be added to your dog’s food or directly administered into their mouth. They provide a flexible option for adjusting the CBD dosage based on your dog’s needs.

It’s important to note that when purchasing CBD products for dogs, it’s crucial to choose reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure the quality, purity, and accurate CBD content of the products. Consulting with your veterinarian can also help guide you in selecting the most appropriate CBD products for your dog’s specific requirements.

In summary, the CBD market for dogs offers a range of products such as biscuits, treats, and oils. These products provide different administration options to cater to individual preferences and ensure convenient CBD delivery for your furry companion. When choosing CBD products, prioritize reputable brands and consider consulting with your veterinarian for guidance.

Photo by Jozef Fehér

Sources and References:

Campos AC, et al. (2013). Involvement of serotonin-mediated neurotransmission in the dorsal periaqueductal gray matter on cannabidiol chronic effects in panic-like responses in rats. Psychopharmacology, 226(1), 13-24.

Hammell DC, et al. (2016). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 936-948.

Philpott HT, et al. (2017). Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis. Pain, 158(12), 2442-2451.

Ignatowska-Jankowska BM, et al. (2020). Cannabidiol-induced lymphopenia does not involve NKT and NK cells. Journal of Immunology, 204(1 Supplement), 195.2-195.2.

Chagas MH, et al. (2013). Cannabidiol can improve complex sleep-related behaviours associated with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Parkinson’s disease patients: a case series. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(5), 564-566.

Disclaimer: Please note that while the sources and references provided are reputable, it’s always advisable to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or treatments to your pet’s routine.

Discover The Doggie Shop: Treats, Accessories, and Toys for your furry friend. Shop now for quality products to keep your dog happy and entertained! Check out the The Doggie Shop

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TGA Approves Prescription of Psychedelic Drugs Psilocybin and MDMA for Mental Health Treatment

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In a historic move, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has approved the use of psilocybin and MDMA for psychiatrists to prescribe to their patients. This decision is a major milestone for the medical use of these drugs and could have a significant impact on the treatment of mental health conditions.

Psilocybin, which is found in certain species of mushrooms, and MDMA, also known as ecstasy, have been used in various clinical trials for the treatment of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These trials have shown promising results, with many patients reporting significant improvements in their symptoms after taking these drugs.

Until now, however, the use of psilocybin and MDMA in a clinical setting has been highly restricted, with only a handful of countries allowing their use. The TGA’s decision to approve these drugs for prescription by psychiatrists marks a major shift in the approach to mental health treatment in Australia.

The decision is based on the TGA’s recognition of the potential benefits of these drugs in the treatment of mental health conditions. The TGA has stated that the approval of psilocybin and MDMA is subject to certain conditions, including that the drugs must be prescribed by a specialist psychiatrist and only used in a medically supervised environment.

The TGA’s decision has been welcomed by mental health advocates and experts, who have long argued that the current treatments for mental health conditions are inadequate and often come with significant side effects. Many believe that psilocybin and MDMA could provide an alternative approach to treatment that is more effective and less harmful.

Research into the use of psilocybin and MDMA has shown that these drugs can have a profound impact on the brain, leading to changes in the way the brain processes emotions and memories. This can help patients to confront and overcome the root causes of their mental health conditions, leading to long-term improvements in their symptoms.

However, it’s important to note that the use of psilocybin and MDMA in a clinical setting is still a relatively new area of research, and there is still much to learn about the potential benefits and risks of these drugs. As such, the TGA’s decision to approve these drugs for prescription by psychiatrists comes with strict conditions, including the requirement that patients must be carefully screened and monitored throughout their treatment.

The decision also highlights the need for further research into the potential medical uses of psilocybin and MDMA. While many clinical trials have shown promising results, there is still much to learn about how these drugs work, and how they can be used most effectively in a clinical setting.

Despite these challenges, the TGA’s decision to approve psilocybin and MDMA for prescription by psychiatrists is a major step forward for the medical use of these drugs. It could provide hope to the millions of people around the world who suffer from mental health conditions, and who have struggled to find effective treatments.

It also underscores the growing recognition of the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of mental health conditions. As more research is conducted in this area, it’s likely that we will continue to see a shift in the approach to mental health treatment, with more emphasis on alternative therapies such as psilocybin and MDMA.

In conclusion, the TGA’s decision to approve psilocybin and MDMA for prescription by psychiatrists is a major milestone in the medical use of these drugs. It provides hope to those who have struggled with mental health conditions, and underscores the growing recognition of the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of mental illness. While there is still much to learn about the potential benefits and risks of these drugs, the TGA’s decision represents an important step forward in the search for more effective treatments for mental health conditions.

Source: TGA Media Release

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Twitter Is Now Cannabis-Friendly (Kind of)

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Twitter, one of the largest social media platforms in the world, has recently become the first major platform to allow cannabis ads. This decision has been a significant victory for the cannabis industry, which has been facing major advertising restrictions and challenges for years.

In 2018, Canada became the first G7 country to legalize recreational cannabis. However, even in places where cannabis is legal, the industry faces many restrictions, particularly when it comes to advertising. Most major social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, have strict policies that prohibit the promotion of cannabis-related products and services. Google also prohibits the promotion of cannabis-related products and services, making it nearly impossible for cannabis companies to advertise online.

This has forced many cannabis companies to rely on more traditional forms of advertising, such as billboards and print ads. However, these methods are not only expensive, but they also have limited reach. With more and more people spending their time online, particularly on social media platforms, the inability to advertise on these channels has become a major hindrance to the growth of the industry.

However, Twitter’s recent decision to allow cannabis ads has changed the game. The platform has updated its advertising policy to allow companies that are licensed by the state to advertise legal cannabis products and services. This means that companies can now use Twitter to promote their products to a wider audience, including those who may not have been aware of the legal cannabis industry before.

The move has been welcomed by the cannabis industry, with many companies already taking advantage of the new policy. For example, Cresco Labs, one of the largest cannabis companies in the United States, has already started running ads on Twitter. The company’s ads are focused on education and information, helping to demystify some of the misconceptions surrounding cannabis and its uses.

The decision to allow cannabis ads on Twitter is also significant because it could signal a shift in the broader approach to cannabis advertising. With Twitter setting a precedent, other social media platforms may follow suit, which could have a major impact on the growth of the industry. It could also help to reduce some of the stigma associated with cannabis and its users, as more people are exposed to the industry through advertising and education.

However, there are still some limitations to Twitter’s policy. For example, the platform does not allow companies to advertise products that contain more than 0.3% THC, which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis. This means that companies that sell products such as edibles or concentrates are still unable to advertise on the platform. There are also restrictions on the age of the audience that can be targeted with cannabis ads, with Twitter requiring that companies only advertise to users who are over the age of 21.

Despite these limitations, the decision by Twitter to allow cannabis ads is a major step forward for the industry. It could help to increase awareness and understanding of the legal cannabis industry, and make it easier for companies to reach potential customers online. As more and more states and countries legalize cannabis, it is likely that other platforms will follow Twitter’s lead and update their advertising policies to allow cannabis-related ads. For now, however, Twitter is leading the way, and the cannabis industry is better off for it.

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Cannabis in the Workplace: The 2022 Guide for Employers and Employees 

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With more US states and cities legalizing marijuana and reducing prohibitions, businesses that wish to keep cannabis out of the workplace face new challenges. In 2022, multiple cannabis regulations were updated in almost all states, and it’s important to keep them in mind when developing a drug policy in the workplace. Moreover, both employers and employees should be aware that medical marijuana laws vary by state. If you are an employer with offices in many states, you must adhere to each state’s medical cannabis rules. If you are an employee that is transferred from one state’s office to another, remember that the new state’s rules should be applied to your medical marijuana status and use.

Laws on Marijuana Use at Work by States

Approximately two-thirds of the US states now have medical marijuana legislation allowing people with serious medical illnesses to consume marijuana with a doctor’s approval. However, just because marijuana is legal in many places does not mean that its use is permitted in the workplace. Employers in most states have the right to terminate, punish, or otherwise penalize an employee who uses marijuana at work or shows up to work under the influence of marijuana, even if they require it to treat a medical condition.

The states are divided when it comes to off-duty medical cannabis use. Approximately 20 states ban employers from discriminating against medical marijuana cardholders or terminating employees who test positive for marijuana while on the job. Moreover, some states additionally require employers to create appropriate accommodations for employees that use medical marijuana to treat a medical condition. For example, employees suffering from glaucoma can be allowed to start work later in the morning to have enough time for treatment. Other states, however, specifically enable employers to terminate employees for using medical marijuana in the workplace. 

In recent years, more states have legalized marijuana for recreational use. However, most of them enable companies to impose zero-tolerance drug policies and dismiss employees for using drugs while on the job. So far, only the state of Maine protects off-duty recreational marijuana usage. To demonstrate how different the regulations are from place to place, you can check the situation regarding cannabis use in the workplace in some of the US states: 

Medical Marijuana Laws in Arizona

Regulations: The Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 36-2801 to 36-2819

Legal: medical marijuana only

Rules for employers: Employers may not discriminate against medical marijuana users based merely on their status as registered cardholders or for testing positive on a marijuana drug test unless it would result in the employer losing money or license under federal law. According to Arizona’s laws and rules, employers have the right to terminate or otherwise penalize workers who use, possess, or are impaired by medical marijuana on company property or during work hours.

Medical Cannabis Laws in California 

Regulations: California Health & Safety Code §§ 11362.5, 11362.7 to 11362.9;  §§ 11362.1 to 11362.45

Legal: medical and recreational marijuana

Rules for employers: Employers are not obligated to accommodate medical or recreational marijuana usage in the workplace. Employers may terminate employees who test positive for marijuana, even if the usage was off-duty and for a legitimate medical reason with a valid medical marijuana card.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Ohio

Regulations: Ohio Revised Code Ann. §§ 3796.01 to 3796.30

Legal: medical marijuana only

Rules for employers: Employers are not compelled to facilitate an employee’s medicinal marijuana usage or possession. Employers may impose zero-tolerance drug policies, and medical marijuana users may be disciplined, fired, or refused employment. Get to know the current regulations on medical marijuana use in the workplace and how to get a medical marijuana card online in the state of Ohio. 

Medical Marijuana Laws in Utah

Regulations: Utah SB 109 (2022), Utah Code Ann. 26-61a

Legal: medical marijuana only 

Rules for employers: Government employers must treat medical cannabis patients the same way as they would treat employees with valid opioid prescriptions. This means that such staff cannot face discrimination unless their use of medical cannabis impairs their performance or creates harmful circumstances. Private employers, on the other hand, are permitted by state law to undertake drug testing to detect cannabis usage. They are also permitted to use their current anti-cannabis rules for employees who test positive. This is not to imply that they must, but they do have this option.

Get to know more detailed information about legal cannabis use for medical purposes in other states on this State Cannabis Laws page. 

Marijuana Laws and Employment FAQs 

  1. Is There a Conflict Between State and Federal Laws Regarding the Use of Marijuana at Work?

Yes. Workplace norms are established by the Fair Labor Standards Act, as well as other federal laws and agency regulations. Marijuana is forbidden under federal law. As a result, businesses can freely restrict their employees from using cannabis while on duty. Moreover, sometimes, they can even restrict using cannabis outside the workplace. The case of “Coats v. Dish Network” proves this fact: in 2015, an employee, Brandon Coats, claimed unfair dismissal after testing positive for marijuana, and the Colorado Supreme Court found that form of termination was permissible. Conflicting laws also cause issues in some professions. For example, marijuana is considered to be a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, so doctors cannot lawfully prescribe it. In some states and cases, they are just allowed to “recommend” it. 

  1. Can an employer discipline an employee for consuming marijuana on the job?

An employer is not prohibited from taking disciplinary action against an employee if the employee is impaired by cannabis while at work, which means the employee manifests specific articulable symptoms of impairment that: 

  • Reduce or diminish his/her performance
  • Violate safety and health regulations in the workplace
  1. Can an employee be fired for having a noticeable odor of cannabis? 

The smell of cannabis, on its own, is not evidence of articulable symptoms of impairment under Labor Law Section 201-D.

  1. Must an employee be dismissed for consuming cannabis or being impaired by cannabis on the job?

No, employers are authorized but not compelled to take action in such cases.

  1. What are articulable impairment symptoms?

There is no definite list of impairment symptoms. By “articulable symptoms of impairment” people usually mean objectively visible signs indicating the wrong, reduced, or harmful employee’s execution of the tasks. Employers should be aware that such articulable symptoms may also be an indicator that an employee has a disability protected by federal and state law (e.g., the NYS Human Rights Law), even if the employer is unaware of the impairment or condition. Before taking any measures, employers should get advice from qualified specialists on applicable local, state, and federal laws prohibiting handicap discrimination. For example, the hazardous and careless operation of heavy machinery may be regarded as an articulable indication of impairment.

  1. Can an employer drug test an employee if federal law permits it?

No, an employer can not test an employee for cannabis just because it is legal or illegal under federal law. (See, for example, USDOL TEIN 15-90, which explains that neither the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 nor the regulations enacted under it permit employee drug testing.) However, if federal or state law demands drug testing or makes it an obligatory condition of employment, an employer may drug test an employee.

  1. May employers force employees to promise or agree not to consume cannabis, as a compulsory condition of work?

Employers may not ask employees to relinquish their rights under Section 201-D of the Labor Law to hire or continue employment.

  1. Can businesses forbid employees from using cannabis outside the workplace? 

No, unless the employer has the authority to do so under Labor Law Section 201-D. (4-a).

  1. Can companies forbid employees from using corporate vehicles?

Yes, employers can restrict usage of corporate cars or company property even beyond regular business hours or work shifts.

  1. Can companies forbid employees to possess cannabis at work?

Yes, companies may ban workers from bringing cannabis into their property, which includes leased and rented space, business vehicles, and employee-only areas inside such property.

  1. Can companies limit marijuana use at the “worksite” for remote employees?

The Department of Labor does not regard an employee’s private house utilized for remote work to be a “worksite” under Labor Law Section 201- D. However, if a person that consumes cannabis demonstrates visible articulable signs of impairment during work hours, as indicated above, an employer may take action and implement a general policy barring marijuana usage during working hours.

Takeaway

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the issue of workplace marijuana policies. This topic is still in its infancy. Right now, the main problem is uncertainty. In order to avoid expensive mistakes, experts recommend getting legal advice, researching state laws, revising procedures, and educating staff. 

Writer: Alice Sava, a result-driven content manager, writer, and translator with 9 years of experience in a variety of writing styles. Committed to producing exceptional content for Internet blogs, journal publications, TV advertising, and social media.

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Thailand To Distribute One Million Cannabis Plants in June

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Thailand-TheWeedBlog

The Public Health Minister of Thailand plans to distribute one million free cannabis plants in June, when home cultivation and use of the cannabis plant are due to be officially legalized under Thai law for medicinal users.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that starting June 9, Thai citizens will no longer be required to obtain a permit to cultivate cannabis in their homes. The cannabis cultivated must be of medical grade and used exclusively for medicinal purposes.

Anutin announced the decision in a Facebook post on Sunday (8 May), in which he outlined the benefits of commercial cultivation.

The sale of cannabis products containing less than 0.2% THC, the psychoactive compound, is currently legal in Thailand.

According to Anutin, cannabis and hemp products could generate up to 10 billion baht in annual revenue if both public and private enterprises are permitted to operate freely under the new regulations.

The minister of public health added that the new rules allow small operators to launch marijuana-related businesses without registering with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while large-scale operations will continue to require authorization.

Thailand became the first south-east Asian country to legalize medical cannabis in 2018.

Check out this cannabis ice-cream from Black Canyon in Thailand – Video (Instagram)

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Switzerland To Trial Adult-Use Cannabis Sales This Summer

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Cannabis-TheWeedBlog

Switzerland will start adult-use cannabis sales this summer over a trial program that will involve 400 people. On the 19th of April, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) authorized the first pilot on the sale of cannabis for recreational use.

The initiative is a joint project with the University of Basel and will also take place in the third most popular city in the country, Basel. The study on the legal sale of adult-use cannabis aims to educate to regulate cannabis in the whole country.

The pilot program is intended to provide information and educate consumers about low-risk consumption, knowledge, and benefits of the effects of controlled access to cannabis, and information on consumers’ behavior and physical and mental health.

The cannabis sales trial program will follow strict rules. There will be about 400 pre-selected adult volunteers with previous experience in cannabis consumption will be involved in the pilot, and their state of health will be monitored throughout the trial.

All cannabis products must meet high-quality requirements, come from Swiss organic crops, have to be sold in pharmacies, and can’t be advertised.

The path that brought the pilot on adult-use cannabis sales started in 2016.

In an interview with market intelligence firm Prohibition Partners, Dr. Lavinia Flückiger, co-leader of the study, explained that the project was developed in 2016 and was approved by the local scientific ethics committee in 2017. However, it was never able to start due to the lack of a legal basis. But when the Swiss parliament changed narcotics law in 2021, the project got the green light in August 2021.

According to Dr. Flückiger, recruitment of the participants is expected to take place in August 2022, and the trial program will officially start at the end of the month.

Swiss German daily newspaper Blick reported that volunteers would have access to four cannabis strains and two types of hash available in ten selected pharmacies in Basel produced by Switzerland’s cannabis company Pure Holding AG. Prices of cannabis products will match the ones offered by the illegal market: between $8 and $12 per gram, depending on the product and the level of THC.

The project, which involves authorities and researchers from the local government, the University of Basel, and the University Psychiatric Clinics, Basel, will run for two and a half years.

While cannabis with a THC level below 1% (also known as hemp) is legal, growing, importing, producing, or selling cannabis with a high level of THC is prohibited. Personal consumption of up to 10 grams is tolerated. However, law enforcement officers can fine individuals caught using cannabis with a fixed penalty fine of $100.

Swiss authorities recognize widespread consumption and that the illegal market thrives. Therefore, the launch of an adult-use cannabis sale trial program may be the proper response to fight back against the illicit market and safeguard public health.

In fact, the goal of Swiss drug policy is to minimize drug use and its negative consequences. It is based on the four pillars of prevention, therapy, harm reduction, and repression.

One of the brightest examples of such a drug policy is the Heroin Assisted Treatment Program (HAT), which supplies controlled heroin under medical supervision to a limited number of addicts. The program, introduced in 1994, was meant to keep addicts off the streets and reduce crime. However, it soon became a game changer in Switzerland’s drug policy.

It showed to be an efficient alternative to “zero-tolerance” drug policies as it focused on prevention, harm reduction, medical care, and counseling for the drug addicts and their reintegration into society.

What You Need To Know

  • There will only be 400 pre-selected volunteers
  • Products must meet a high-quality requirement
  • Cannabis must be from Swiss organic crops
  • Strictly access only via a pharmacy
  • Prices start from $8 / $12 per gram – depending on THC levels.

The scientific approach to testing adult-use cannabis in Switzerland follows a series of attempts to review cannabis legislation all across Europe.

According to a 2022 report, 55% of Europeans support legalizing recreational cannabis.

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New Yorkers With Cannabis Convictions Will Get First Retail Licenses

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As New York gets ready for recreational cannabis sales and prepares to open up its first dispensaries by the end of 2022.

The state’s Cannabis Control Board has approved and passed a bill last month that will allow New Yorkers with convictions related to cannabis to be eligible for a retail/cultivation license, who will be among some of the first!

The new legislation also provides existing hemp farmers in New York with the opportunity to apply for a license to grow in the 2022 season. If you are currently own and operate a hemp farm in New York and you want to apply for a license, you can do so here.

Mr. Alexander said he expected between 100 and 200 licenses to go to people who were convicted of a marijuana-related offense before the drug was legalized, or those who have “a parent, guardian, child, spouse, or dependent” with a marijuana conviction.

“I am proud to sign this bill, which positions New York’s farmers to be the first to grow cannabis and jumpstart the safe, equitable and inclusive new industry we are building,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State will continue to lead the way in delivering on our commitment to bring economic opportunity and growth to every New Yorker in every corner of our great state.”   

“I could press the green button right now and have 40 dispensaries online,” said Mr. Alexander, speaking of the state’s extant medical dispensaries. “But instead we’ve decided that the folks who have been most impacted actually have the space and the real runway to participate in a meaningful way.”

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the policy, which is what she calls the Seeding Opportunity Initiative, is an effort to make sure communities that have been impacted the most by marijuana prohibition have a head start in the state’s multi-billion-dollar industry. Most states that have legalized marijuana have banned people with drug felonies from entering the legal market.

The state also hopes that some in the existing black market — sometimes known as “legacy” candidates — may be persuaded to apply for licenses instead because some could be considered equity applicants.

Chris Alexander is the executive director of the state’s Office of Cannabis Management.

He also went on to say that he expects the first handful of dispensaries to be opened by the end of 2022. The state has not set a limit on the available amount of retail licenses for the time being, officials said it all depends on market demands.

You can read more on the bill and changes, here.

Photo by Florian Wehde

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Cannabis and Mushroom Combination That Kills 90% Of Colon Cancer Cells

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Israeli biomedical company, Cannabotech, who develops alternative and preventive medicine based on based on cannabis and mushroom extracts, has recently found promising results in a study involving it’s Integrative-Colon product.

According to statistics, researchers have forecasted there are going to be over 160,000 new cases of colon cancer that will be diagnosed in the United States, and worldwide it’s the third most diagnosed type of cancer.

The Integrative-Colon products are based on a combination of several cannabinoids from the cannabis plant and various mushroom extracts and then tested on subtypes of colon cancer. The research has been a success so far with 90% of cancer cells killed.

The mushroom extracts had a high concentration of PSK, which is derived from the Turkey Tail (Trametes) mushroom, which is renowned for its cancer-fighting properties. In case you didn’t know, the Trametes mushrooms are already approved for cancer treatments in countries like South Korea, Japan and Taiwan. It’s also been used in Chinese medicine for centuries.

CannaBotech intend to combine the formulation with chemotherapy treatment in the next phases of the research, and also combine it with the Cyathus Striatus mushroom.

In addition, their study outlines that there are different impacts of each cannabinoid on various colon cancer subtypes. Cannabotech said it demonstrates the importance of tailoring medical care for each patient’s unique needs. However, the goal of biomedical firms’ work is not to completely replace conventional cancer treatments though they hope that with the new formulations, cancer patients need fewer treatments to get the same benefits.

“This is a significant milestone in Cannabotech’s growth to becoming a leader in integrative oncology medicine. The integrative products developed by Cannabotech are intended for use in combination with chemotherapy treatment to reduce its side effects. Cannabotech’s solutions will be launched in Israel and the US towards the second half of 2022, while the company’s goal is to define a new standard for the medical cannabis industry,” said Elchanan Shaked.

Learn more about Cannabotech here

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