Cannabinoids with the ability to produce psychoactive effects have been gaining popularity recently. Among these compounds is THC-O which is reportedly more potent than the main psychoactive ingredient in Marijuana. Because of its possible high level of potency and lack of research on its effects on one’s health, many have concerns about this THC analog.

What Is THC-O?

THC-O, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, is a non-natural cannabinoid. Also called THC-O-acetate, this compound is not derived from hemp in the same way other cannabis products, like CBD, CBG, and CBN are. This means that THC-O is not found naturally in the hemp plant.

To synthesize THC-O, acetic anhydride is used. This chemical compound is a highly inflammable, colorless liquid that is typically used in making pharmaceuticals, dyes, fibers, plastics, and explosives. Because of the chemicals involved, production requires specialized equipment. This process begins by extracting Delta-8 THC from hemp. The acetic anhydride is then combined with Delta-8 molecules to create THC-O.

There has been very little scientific research done on the effects and dangers of using THC-O. It has been reported by some news outlets that THC-O can be up to 3x more potent than THC. Based on the experiences of consumers, this compound is capable of producing more psychedelic effects than other cannabinoids. It has also been said that these effects tend to have a more spiritual tone.

While not much is known about the effects of THC-O, those who use this cannabinoid believe it can help to relieve pain, boost appetite, and reduce anxiety. Consumers also report the following side effects.

• Hallucinations
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Paranoia
• Sedation
• Vomiting
• Seizures

Public interest in THC-O has been growing across the US, especially in states where the sale of recreational Marijuana is still illegal. It is typically sold in vape cartridges, tinctures, and gummies.

The Legality Of THC-O

In 2018, former President Trump indirectly legalized the production and sale of hemp on a federal level when he signed the Farm Bill. With the signing of this bill, hemp and low concentration derivatives were separated from the definition of Marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This means that cannabis products with no more than 0.3% THC can legally be sold, transported, and possessed.

It may seem that THC-O would fit this description and therefore be considered legal, but it’s more complicated than that. Although THC-O is derived from a naturally occurring hemp compound (Delta-8), there are synthetic elements involved. The same 2018 Farm Bill stated that synthetically derived tetrahydrocannabinol was to remain classified as a schedule 1 substance. The Federal Analog Act also can apply to the legality of THC-O. This 1986 act essentially declared that chemicals that are “substantially similar” to an illegal drug are to be treated as a schedule 1 drug.

In September 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), responded to an inquiry made by the Alabama Board Of Pharmacy about the legality of Delta-8. In their letter, the DEA wrote that “delta-8 THC synthetically produced from non-cannabis materials is controlled under the CSA as a tetrahydrocannabinol.” Following the logic presented in this letter, THC-O would also be considered an illegal tetrahydrocannabinol.

Despite these deductions, THC-O has never been listed by name as a schedule 1 substance under the CSA which makes its legal status still very questionable.

Dangers Of Use

Like most cannabinoids, THC-O is not regulated and is manufactured without any standards. For this reason, one should be very conscious when using THC-O. Despite most THC-O products claiming to be all-natural, synthetic chemicals are always used in its production. Knowing what chemicals were used and how much is next to impossible. This means you can never know how potent it is or how your body may react to the chemicals involved.

THC-O is also considered a prodrug. This means that the psychoactive effects will not be noticeable until the chemical has been transformed after use. For THC-O, it could take up to 30 minutes to feel the effects. This is dangerous because those who are unaware may think that they haven’t taken enough which may cause them to take a second dose. It is important to note that when taking THC-O edibles, effects are even more delayed. In these cases, one might not feel anything for several hours after taking the edible.

Current Restrictions

Some parts of the US, as well as some companies, are working to put regulations in place for synthetic cannabinoids like THC-O. Just this month, a Delta-8 focused bill was passed in South Dakota’s House and Senate. If this bill becomes law, only those who are over the age of 21 will be able to purchase products containing Delta-8, THC-O, and Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). While supporters of this bill believe that these limitations are the best way to create a safe environment, there are concerns that it won’t be enough because of a lack of regulations throughout the US. Because there are no federal restrictions, unregulated THC-O can be sold from other states to those under the age of 21.

Shopify, an e-commerce platform with more than 2.1 million users, announced this month that cannabinoid products with more than 0.3% of THC must be removed from user’s online stores. For global shipping, products cannot exceed 0.2% THC. This applies to products with any form of THC, regardless of compound type, such as Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10, THC-O, and THCP. These restrictions have been made in compliance with FDA regulations for hemp derived products.

The THC-O Takeaway

Since synthetic Marijuana was introduced, a large number of similar cannabinoid agonists have been created. This makes it difficult to control these substances. Because there is very little research and few regulations, the risks that can come with using THC-O are virtually unknown. Lack of regulations and standards for production make it very difficult to know a product’s potency or what chemicals were involved during production. While most are advertised as being organic or natural, often dangerous chemicals are used when manufacturing THC-O.

It is possible that using these products can lead to a tolerance developing. In these cases, more of these substances are needed to feel the same effects. With so much unknown and the risk of building up a tolerance, it is best to avoid synthetic cannabinoids, like THC-O, to prevent an addiction from forming.

The post The Risks Involved With Using THC-O appeared first on Addiction Center.

Have you ever heard of the term “California sober?” It’s a phrase that has been popularized by singer/actress Demi Lovato in a recent documentary detailing her battle with addiction. According to the star, the term means avoiding all addictive substances except “soft” drugs like Marijuana and alcohol. The practice is rooted in harm reduction rather than absolutism. 

People who are “California sober,” also known as “Cali sober,” either moderately use or forgo alcohol and “hard” drugs. A few examples of  “hard drugs” are Heroin, Cocaine, and crystal Methamphetamine. Instead, they use “soft” drugs like Marijuana, LSD, or Psilocybin. Demi Lovato explains it’s a form of “balanced” sobriety that has helped her stay away from harder drugs. Lovato clarifies, “I’ve learned that it doesn’t work for me to say that I’m never going to do this again.” She explains cutting off all substances was “setting myself up for failure because I am such a black-and-white thinker.” Since Lovato’s interview, the term California sober has blown up on social media. Still, does it work? 

Does “California Sober” Work?

Demi Lovato claims California sobriety works for her but is it for everyone? Unfortunately, no, it is not. Exposing yourself to light alcohol and drug use may be ok for certain people while disastrous for those who have struggled with addiction. According to research, people once addicted to a substance that return to drinking or smoking are more likely to relapse. Even if an individual refrains from using “softer” drugs or alcohol, they are likely to backslide. According to the American Medical Association Journal, nearly 50% of people relapse within a year of treatment. 

Staying away, or abstaining, from all drugs and alcohol is necessary for those in recovery. To some, it may seem like absolutism, but in reality, it is the best chance a person has to improve their odds of staying “clean.” The practice of reintroducing “soft” drugs to a person’s system is risky. Both alcohol and Marijuana are part of the 3 most commonly used addictive drugs in the United States. More than 11.8 million people admit to using Marijuana, and about 30% of them have a Marijuana use disorder. Nearly 70% of adults over-consume alcohol, and about 14.5 million are battling an alcohol use disorder. 

California Sober Is Not Medically Proven Or Regulated

Though celebrities rave about being “Cali sober,” it is essential to note that the term is not medically recognized or regulated. There is no way of knowing what 2 different people consider as okay while “Cali sober.” Some individuals use alcohol and smoke weed, while others take shrooms and do not drink. The term is arbitrary with little to no clear criteria or scientific basis. 

Besides being confusing, going “Cali sober” can still lead to a dependency on Marijuana and alcohol. The goal of treatment is to help patients stop drug abuse. By using “soft” drugs, individuals are, in a way delaying true sobriety. Still, medical professionals must do much more research to understand if being “Cali sober” is beneficial for some people.

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Alcohol and drugs are psychoactive substances because they directly alter the functioning of the central nervous system. A drug is “psychoactive” due to its ability to increase or decrease the speed of electrical impulses along the neutral pathways in the brain. For example, alcohol slows down this electrical activity while cocaine accelerates it. Psychiatric drugs as medications can treat disorders of the brain by stabilizing chemical imbalances.

The categories of psychoactive substances include:

Depressants

Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives-hypnotics are depressants. While opioids and alcohol are sometimes listed in separate drug classifications, they are still referred to as depressants. Some depressants briefly stimulate the higher brain centers. This results in excitement and decreased inhibition where a person no longer feels restrained. This effect is followed by depression of the central nervous system. Depressants cause relaxation, sedation, a sense of euphoria, and reduced alertness, anxiety, emotional discomfort, or physical pain.

Stimulants

Drugs classified as stimulants include caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine, and crack cocaine. They stimulate the central nervous system, increase physical activity, and create a sense of alertness, wellbeing, and euphoria.

Cannabinoids

Drugs in the category of cannabinoids include marijuana, hashish, and hash oil. These substances can act as stimulants, depressants, or hallucinogens, and produce alerted perceptions and a sense of euphoria, relaxation, or wellbeing.

Hallucinogens or “Psychedelics”

Drugs classified as hallucinogens or “psychedelics” include LSD, PCP, peyote, mescaline, psilocybin, and designer drugs like ecstasy. They distort reality, alter perceptions, blur the boundaries between self and the environment, and create the illusion of special insights or increased empathy towards others.

Inhalants or “Deliriants”

Drugs classified as inhalants include solvents, gases, and nitrates. They alter perceptions, cause mental confusion, create a euphoric “rush,” and cause a person to feel like they’re floating.

Anabolic Steroids

The drugs classified as anabolic steroids are synthetic substances similar to male sex hormones. They are used to enhance athletic performance and make a person feel stronger, more confident, and powerful.

Treatment, Not Punishment, Should Be the Priority

America is a nation obsessed with the consequences of alcohol and drug abuse. The federal government allots 92% of its substance abuse budget to responding to drug abuse and only 8% of its budget to actually treating drug dependence. It’s not only the federally-funded health care which neglects to treat the illness. Law enforcement, courts, and prisons for punishing drug use cost billions of dollars, but America comparatively spends pennies on preventing substance abuse which contributes to crime.

When a person who commits a crime has a drug addiction, it is not reasonable to simply incarcerate that person. If they are left untreated, they will likely return to crime and drugs, but when they receive treatment for addiction, they are dramatically less likely to re-offend. It is counterproductive to refuse to treat people who abuse alcohol and drugs when they are in prison. If recovery is going to be prevention-based, then actions need to be taken to prevent abuse, not just punish it.

To do this effectively, the investments that corporations undertake to produce profits for for their stockholders, that parents make to give their children the best education possible, that the medical industry dedicates to cancer and heart disease prevention are needed. This is not to say that people are not responsible for their actions when commit crimes under the influence of drugs and alcohols. Rather, treatment needs to be prioritized for the disease of addiction more than in the past.

For more information on treatment options, contact a treatment provider today.

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Addiction transference, also known as a cross addiction, is when a person has an addiction to two or more addictive substances or behaviors, which can include addictions to not only drugs and alcohol, but also gambling, sex, video games, food or other compulsive behaviors. Addiction is the continued use of a substance or behavior despite the potential for personal problems or negative consequences. A person with an addiction may want to stop, yet struggle doing so on their own.

Cross addictions do not necessarily have to occur simultaneously. For instance, someone may be in recovery from a drug addiction, such as opioids, and may even be clean for many years, but later develop an addiction to alcohol or engage in behaviors that may become compulsive. This triggers the brain’s dopamine reward center. People who have or have a history of one addiction have a higher propensity for developing a cross addiction. Addiction transference occurs when a person substitutes one addiction for another.

How Does Addiction Transference Happen?

There are various reasons for why addiction transference develops; however, it is often accidental. For example, a person with an addiction or history of addiction may have surgery and be prescribed Percocet or Vicodin, and the euphoric feeling they get from the drug reinforces the continued use of the drug until it leads to increased use and eventually becomes an addiction. Another common cause of addiction transference or cross addiction is lack of understanding that another addiction exists. A person may be aware they have an addiction to a particular substance but may not realize they have an addiction to another substance or compulsive behavior, making it pertinent that individuals with a substance use disorder, or history of one, be aware of the risk of cross addiction.

Another reason addiction transference may occur is if someone has unresolved mental health issues, otherwise known as co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis. A person with trauma, depression or anxiety may begin to use alcohol with other drugs as a way to comfort themselves. Cross addiction also occurs as an attempt to compensate for uncomfortable changes in behavior and routines, as well as due to emotions and thoughts that the person may struggle coping with. A common example is when a person recovering from an alcohol addiction begins gambling heavily. This can lead to financial stress and feelings of hopelessness. However, because of the compulsive nature of gambling and the reward of dopamine in the brain, the behavior continues as a way to cope.

How Common Is Addiction Transference?

According the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, there are approximately 21 million people age 12 or older who reported having a cross addiction. Many people do not seek help for their addiction due to not believing they can stop or not being ready to stop, while some do not believe they have a problem at all.

How Is Addiction Transference Treated?

Addiction transference is best treated at an addiction treatment center with the help of 12-step programs or other recovery support groups. There are many different types of support groups that focus on specific addictions, including specific drugs as well as compulsive behaviors, such as gambling, sex, or food. A good treatment program will further address any co-occurring mental health issues by implementing evidenced-based treatment modalities. There is also the benefit of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for certain individuals.

If someone has a history of addiction, it is best to speak with a professional prior to the use of any prescribed medications that are considered addictive substances, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, due to the high risk of developing a cross addiction. If one must take addiction medications, having a family member dispense them may help reduce the risk of abusing them.

The best way to avoid a cross addiction from developing is by educating yourself and others. When a person is in early recovery from one addiction, they are more susceptible to developing a cross addiction because their brains are still seeking out the dopamine rush that they received when they were actively using. Despite this, it can still occur after many years of being in recovery. The best form of action is to be aware of the risks and take proper inventory of your behaviors to prevent developing a cross addiction.

Get Help Now

Perhaps you or someone you know is struggling with addiction transference. If you are unsure or feel you need help, do not be ashamed to reach out for help. Regardless of the circumstance, addiction help is available. Contact a treatment provider today who can assist you with finding treatment.

The post Understanding Addiction Transference appeared first on Addiction Center.

In the State of New York, recreational marijuana is one step closer to becoming legal. On July 29, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law which reduces penalties on New Yorkers who use and possess as many as two ounces of non-medical marijuana. Since decriminalization is not legalization, the police in New York can still arrest someone for possessing up to two ounces of cannabis, but the State will now only charge that person with a violation rather than a misdemeanor. In other words, New Yorkers can no longer go to prison for possessing marijuana in small amounts. Here are the major rules of the new law:

• The penalty for possessing less than one ounce of marijuana will be a $50 fine.
• The penalty for possessing between one and two ounces of marijuana will be a maximum fine of $200.
• It will be illegal to smoke marijuana wherever it is illegal to smoke cigarettes.

It remains illegal in New York to grow, buy, or sell recreational marijuana in any quantity.

The law also provides New Yorkers who have criminal records for possessing marijuana an opportunity to apply to have the State erase their convictions. Additionally, the State will automatically erase all criminal convictions for possessing as many as 25 grams (0.88 ounces) of marijuana. There are almost 600,000 people in New York who have a criminal record for minor marijuana offenses. The provisions of the law take effect in 30 days.

Politics And Criminal Justice Reform

Cuomo campaigned last year to legalize marijuana in New York, but his fellow Democrats in the state legislature were not able to reach a consensus on how the State would regulate the cannabis industry. Meanwhile, the Republicans in New York opposed legalization altogether. Although Cuomo could not fulfill his pledge this year to legalize marijuana, he praised the decriminalization law as “a critical step forward in addressing a broken and discriminatory criminal justice process.”

In 1977, New York decriminalized the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis, yet the State continued to punish smoking any amount of the drug “in public view” as a crime. Advocates of decriminalization claim that this provision of the old law disproportionately affected New Yorkers who are Black, Hispanic, and poor. In fact, in just one year, 2015, 88% of all New Yorkers who were arrested for marijuana possession were members of racial minorities.

Some supporters of decriminalization say that the new law will correct this disparity by equalizing the penalties for possessing marijuana in public and in private. However, others say that legalizing the drug, taxing it, and then investing the revenue into underserved communities is the only way to truly address the problem. In the words of Melissa Moore, the deputy director for the Drug Policy Alliance in New York, “decriminalization falls short.” It’s likely that New York will continue to debate the merits of legalization and may one day join the 11 states where marijuana is fully legal.

Find Help In New York For Marijuana Abuse

Whether or not it’s legal, illegal, or decriminalized, marijuana is not always safe. In fact, the drug has the potential to inflict a variety of health problems, aggravate mental illness, stunt brain development, and cause addiction. Marijuana is a common drug in New York, but fortunately there are also many rehab centers in New York which offer treatment to anyone who wants to recover from a marijuana habit. Contact a treatment provider today to find out more about the options for rehab.

The post New York Decriminalizes Up To Two Ounces Of Recreational Marijuana appeared first on Addiction Center.

On June 25, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 1438, which allows people in Illinois to use and purchase recreational Marijuana. The bill also requires the state to license marijuana dispensaries. Medical Marijuana has already been legal in Illinois since 2013 and now Illinois will be the 11th state to legalize the drug for non-medical use.

Recreational Marijuana is currently legal in Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, Michigan, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, and Nevada, although the federal government still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance.

Pritzker stated that “legalizing adult-use cannabis brings an important and overdue change to our state, and it’s the right thing to do.” Supporters of HB 1438 claim that taxing legal Marijuana will generate millions of dollars in revenue for Illinois and that legalization, combined with the bill’s reparations provisions, will correct injustices which they say anti-drug laws have inflicted on minorities. Opponents of HB 1438, especially interest groups which represent police officers, fear that legalization will cause more people to use Marijuana and then drive while “high.”

New Marijuana Rules And Limitations

Under the new law, Illinois residents may possess as many as 30 grams (or 1 ounce) of Marijuana and non-residents visiting the state may possess as many as 15 grams, beginning on January 1, 2020. Possessing non-medicinal Marijuana will be against the law for the remainder of 2019.

Adults who are at least 21 years old will also be allowed to buy Marijuana, but only from licensed dispensaries. The law does not allow people in Illinois to grow their own Marijuana unless they are patients who use medical Marijuana for treatment. In those cases, they may keep a maximum of 5 cannabis plants in their homes. Additionally, it will remain illegal to use Marijuana in public spaces, at schools, in a car, or in the presence of a minor. Landlords and business owners can also ban Marijuana use on their private property, and universities and colleges can still prohibit the drug on campus.

When cannabis sales begin on January 1, there may be over 100 dispensaries for recreational Marijuana throughout the state. The law requires would-be Marijuana merchants to pay $100,000 to apply for a dispensary license. The state will give preference to the 55 medical Marijuana dispensaries which are already operating in Illinois and then will open applications for 75 more licenses in October.

Overturning Criminal Convictions

When he signed HB 1438, Pritzker claimed that the “the war on cannabis” – the criminalization of Marijuana – “has destroyed families, filled prisons with nonviolent offenders, and disproportionately disrupted black and brown communities.” Therefore, the law will erase state-level, non-violent marijuana convictions. This provision has the potential to relieve almost 800,000 people of a criminal record.

The law also requires that 25% of tax revenue which the state collects from the Marijuana industry be invested in high-poverty areas and that another 20% of the revenue be used to finance programs to treat drug addiction. Furthermore, the law requires that the state give preference to minorities who apply for a license to open a dispensary.

Legal Marijuana Is Not Safe Marijuana

Cannabis may now be legal in Illinois, but regular Marijuana users are still at risk for emotional disorders, lung damage, stunted brain development, psychological dependence, and symptoms of withdrawal.

Whether or not it’s legal, Marijuana can harm a person’s ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you or someone you know needs help with overcoming Marijuana dependence, contact a treatment provider today to get answers to your questions about rehab.

The post Illinois Legalizes Recreational Marijuana, Overturns Cannabis Convictions appeared first on Addiction Center.

In the Pamir Mountains in present-day western China, researchers have found evidence of Cannabis use dating back at least 2,500 years ago. Traces of CBN (the chemical compound formed by the metabolization of THC, the psychoactive compound in Marijuana) were discovered in wooden braziers in an area thought to be a burial ground, known as Jirzankal Cemetery.

Scientists were especially intrigued to find Cannabis remnants with significantly high levels of THC, compared to the wild Marijuana plants found naturally in the area. Using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method to isolate specific Cannabinoid compounds preserved for thousands of years in the burners, the artifacts also suggest that people in the area purposely cultivated high-THC plants for use in rituals.

The findings support the idea that Cannabis plants were first used for their psychoactive compounds in the mountainous regions of eastern Central Asia, thereafter spreading to other regions of the world.

In a paper published in the journal Science Advances, scientists posit that these Cannabis users filled braziers with hot stones and Marijuana leaves, then inhaled the smoke produced by the coals. Also found in the cave were the bones of an individual who did not grow up in the area – lending credence to theories that the area was a part of an ancient Silk Road.

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Other Early Cannabis Use Discoveries

Previously, researchers had difficulty finding evidence of Marijuana use by earlier civilizations. In Herodotus’s historical writings of the Scythians, he described funeral receptions where attendees would “throw the seed … upon the red-hot stones” and “shout for joy” as the smoke filled the air.

The Jirzankal Cannabis discovery represents the first hard evidence of use of the psychoactive substance for the purpose of experiencing mind-altering effects. So far, researchers have been able to uncover remnants of Cannabis use from cemeteries to the north of Jirzankal, in the Chinese Xinjiang territory and the Russian Altai Mountains.

While the discovery does not entirely fall under “recreational” use, scientists who analyze the time period believe it was an important part of funeral and, possibly, spiritual rituals. To this day in the region, many Chinese people continue to practice the tradition of wearing hemp while in mourning.

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New statistics inform the American public of increasing rates of Marijuana poisoning in pets. Pet Poison Hotline (PPH) has witnessed a 448% increase in animal-related Marijuana poisoning within the 6 years. In 2010 alone, the PPH witnessed a 200% increase of Marijuana ingestions in domestic animals. Additionally, the ASPCA reports witnessing a 765% increase in calls related to pets and Marijuana intoxication.

Much of this is due to the legalization of cannabis throughout the United States, shaping pet owners’ relaxed attitudes on Marijuana use. Because of Marijuana’s reputation as being a natural substance to encourage relaxation, some pet owners may not find the harm in exposing their dogs and cats to it. While Marijuana exposure is milder to pets that some others drugs such as Opioids, Stimulants, or Diet Pills, many remain concerned.

Marijuana, Edibles, And Pet Deaths

Despite Marijuana being considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses according to ASPCA, the rate of animal deaths from Marijuana are rare. Some of these cases included animals who accidentally ate edibles or plant material while on walks. Other cases of Marijuana exposure and toxicity by owners to pets have occurred through animals ingesting edibles found in the home. For example, there were 2 recent incidents of dogs dying from Marijuana intoxication. Both of these cases included dogs eating edibles, with a very high content of butter-infused Marijuana.

Edibles are baked goods, breads, butters, and candies containing Marijuana. Because of this, a large amount of Marijuana intoxication has occurred from dogs eating their owner’s edibles. If the edibles contain chocolate, this can be very harmful to both dogs and cats as well. In general, dogs are more susceptible to Marijuana poisoning than cats, as dogs are more likely to ingest the herb. Reports of Marijuana poisoning and dogs confirm a dog’s natural curiosity in trying out a wider variety of foods and more omnivorous diet, as opposed to a cat’s discriminating and carnivorous nature.

Is Pet Marijuana Poisoning Accidental Or Intentional?

Accidental and intentional reports of pet intoxication by Marijuana both exist. Stories of pet owners giving their dog or cat “a contact high” –a direct exposure to Marijuana from the owner’s mouth to the pet can cause reckless exposure to Marijuana. In such cases, the owner is not measuring the amount of Marijuana smoke that can affect the pet.

Some pet owners report giving their pets small amounts of Marijuana to combat health conditions. One woman speaks of the time she gave her cat medical Marijuana to combat arthritis. The cat owner was able to get it in a liquid form to make it easier for her cat to ease into comfort. The end was the cat having less pain and eating more. Although the pets seemed to show symptoms of improvement, there is little evidence supporting Marijuana’s effects on pets. The FDA has not approved Marijuana for animals, and veterinarians are unable to distribute medical Marijuana to pets.

Signs Of Pet Marijuana Intoxication

Giving your pet Marijuana can definitely cause them discomfort and adverse symptoms. Because pet owners are not certified in understanding the differences in animal biology versus human biology, they could give their pet too much Marijuana (and there is likely no safe amount). As a result, the pet may endure uncomfortable symptoms like:

• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Coma
• Extreme sleepiness
• Dilated pupils
• Vocalization of discomfort (whining, crying)
• Aggression
• Increased heart rate
• Dry eyes/bloodshot eyes
• Loss of bladder control
• Poor coordination
• “Spacing out”

These symptoms occur from 5 minutes if inhaled through “a contact” (from the owner’s mouth to the pet’s mouth/face) or 1 hour of exposure if they eat it. Symptoms can last as little as 30 minutes to 1 hour to as long as a few days.

Since pets don’t actively use Marijuana with the intention of humans, there is little risk of Marijuana dependence. It is up to the owner to be responsible, use common sense and keep Marijuana and other harmful drugs away from pets, as the risks can cause harm. If your pet is experiencing dangerous symptoms, call your veterinarian.

The post Pets And Marijuana Poisoning appeared first on Addiction Center.

Back in June of 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex as the first Marijuana-based medication in the United States. This month, November 2018, it became available to be prescribed and used across the country.

What Is Epidiolex?

Epidiolex is an anti-seizure medication specifically meant for children who are two and older and suffer from either Dravet or Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS). The 2 forms of epilepsy begin in early-childhood and have not responded well to the past available seizure medications. Epidiolex has had a large testing trial and looks to be significantly more effective than those past medications.

The medication itself, while made from components of Cannabis, does not carry the same effects that people associate with the drug. In particular, Epidiolex does not contain any trace of THC, the psychoactive component of Marijuana. It is exclusively made from CBD compounds, that have had a large backing for years when it came to their potential healing effects. CBD is also the main reason that Marijuana is becoming approved for medical use across the country. THC is the psychoactive component that causes the “high” that Marijuana is famous for. Since THC is not present in Epidiolex, users can’t get high off of it, and its potential for abuse is much lower than other medications.

Despite Marijuana and CBD being Schedule I substances, and many states still not allowing the use of medical Marijuana, the FDA-approved Epidiolex bypasses those state-by-state restrictions and is available as a prescription everywhere.

Why Is This Important?

Epidiolex is the first FDA-approved medication to be made from Cannabis, despite its legalization at the state level in many areas. That opens up possibilities for other medications derived from CBD to make it into the mainstream. In particular, the potential of a painkiller could help curb the number of Opioids that are being prescribed and help with the current Opioid epidemic that we find ourselves in.

While this is only the first application of a federally approved CBD-based medication, it shows hope for more medications to use a less addictive component. However, it is new and that means it will be put under a lot of scrutiny and can still face some push back from other organizations. Hopefully, however, this leads to Opioids becoming less relied upon in the medical field.

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