C&P#141: Cannabis for aging & Tourette + CBD for fibro pain + THCV strips for weight loss
đ This week đ
Cannabis for aging
CBD for chronic pelvic pain & fibromyalgia
Cannabis for the tics of Tourette (2x)
A teen overdose from fentanyl-laced cannabis
A study of subsidized cannabis for cancer patients
Weight loss strips with THCV & CBD (just in time for a new flood of subscribers from GLP-1 Real Talk)
Even after quitting cannabis, you still have persistent changes to your epigenetics
Preclinical: CBD for aging brain, diabetic brains & inflamed brains + PEA for Alzheimer's + beta-caryophyllene for male sexual dysfunction
Abstracts from the American Academy of Neurology 2025 Annual Meeting [look for abstracts from âneurology.orgâ]âŚ
While the Society of Biological Psychiatry continues to be useless
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 141st edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelgerâs free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science, canna-news, War on Drugs coverage, harm reduction & psychedelic updates. Upgrade to a paid subscription here to support my work sharing canna-science. As always, ask me anything.
(this weekâs numbers: ~7800 words, ~15 minute reading time, 171 papers)
đ Editorâs notes:
No newsletter next week: ICBC in Berlin & then camping by the lake with the kids.
I made some formatting changes to the newsletter. Tightened up some of this info at the top. Added emojis for easy scrolling (and fun!). Let me know if you have any suggestions for what might make this newsletter more useful to you or easier to read.
Sharing about a "stoner-surveillance-thriller" film called, âHI! YOU ARE CURRENTLY BEING RECORDEDâ. As of 4/20, itâs now available online as a never-ending, 24-hour loop exclusively at hiyouarecurrentlybeingrecorded.com. From @StupidCoBiz, this new festival-acclaimed cannabis-fueled film in a unique form can be reviewed on Letterboxd.
đ¤ Sponsor đ¤: The Cannabis & Health Research Initiative
Want to help expand the knowledge of medical cannabis use in the real world & get paid 100 bucks to do so?
Johns Hopkins University, with support from Realm of Caring, is spearheading the groundbreaking National Cannabis Study to evaluate the benefits, risks & overall outcomes of using cannabis for conditions like pain, insomnia, anxiety & more. If you are an adult in the U.S. considering starting cannabis for health reasons, this is your chance to help shape the future of cannabis research â and get compensated for your time ($100!). Join now to share your experience & contribute valuable data that could revolutionize healthcare for many patients nationwide. To learn more & sign up, visit:
https://ncs.cannabisandhealth.org/
Or follow along on Instagram to keep on learning:
https://www.instagram.com/cannabisandhealthresearch/
𧰠Free resources
CVResearch.info: the extensive cannabinoid science archive I maintain for CV Sciences
Canna-edu videos: on YouTube @CVScienceInc & on TikTok @pluscbd
My Free How-To Guides on cannabinoids for different conditions. #AMAGlossary of Cannabinoid Terms (& my Neural Ocean metaphor)
And as always, at the bottom is the album of the week
đ For more from Lex⌠(my Linktree)
My canna-graphic novel series based on Moby Dick, ââAnandamide; or, the Cannabinoidâ to explain endocannabinoid science, the darkness of the War on Drugs & the long human history with our favorite plant.
See the volumes âSUNsetâ (Queer canna-history from the AIDS crisis) & âThe CROWNâ (the story of the hunt for the chemical structure of CBN, the first fully-solved cannabinoid in the 1940s). To see more about this ongoing series, see lexpelger.comThe first 2 seasons of my podcast âThe Lex Filesâ on cannabinoids, psychedelics & spirituality
Work with my company White Whale Creations to produce content for cannabis & psychedelic companies: writing, science archives, social media content, newsletters & podcasts: my portfolio
đŁ A request to spread the word đŁ
This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth,
so please forward to colleagues & tell your friends & relatives.
đĽ My work this week đ¤
Canna-Edu Vids for CV Sciences:
(on YT @CVSciencesInc & TT @pluscbd)
CBD for Aggressive Fish (1k views on YT)
My Vids:
(on TT @lexpelgerandhisbooks or on YouTube)
Iâm backing up the earliest videos from my first days on TikTok to my YouTube account. Hereâs some of the recent ones:
The Telepathy Tapes (+ related thoughts) (this is actually my first new video in months. Donât sleep on âThe Telepathy Tapesâ)
'Emma' by Jane Austen (500+ views)
Burton's 'Anatomy of Melancholy' (one of the best of the Western Canon)
đ Ways to support this work đ
A paid subscription on Substack
Buy Me a Coffee
Venmo: @Lex-Pelger
PayPal: donate here
đ Best Of (Phyto)Cannabinoid Science...
âď¸ Clinical
In older people using cannabis, they experienced clinically significant improvements in pain, sleep, quality of life & reductions in co-medication plus âthe cost per QUALY [quality-adjusted life-year] was well below the standard for traditional pharmaceuticalsâ
Medical Cannabis for Patients Over Age 50: A Multi-site, Prospective Study of Patterns of Use and Health Outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968489/
In women with chronic pelvic pain & fibromyalgia, a survey found CBD improved pain, insomnia & anxiety as well as being substituted for at least one other medication
Cannabidiol use and perceptions of effectiveness in women with chronic pelvic pain
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1701216325000799
In people trying to lose weight, 3 months of an oral film with THCV& CBD was associated with significant weight loss & decreased abdominal girth, blood pressure & total & LDL cholesterol
Weight Loss and Therapeutic Metabolic Effects of Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)-Infused Mucoadhesive Strips
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968488/
In healthy adults, comparing the effects of THC vs delta-8 THC
A Within-Subject Cross-Over Trial Comparing the Acute Effects of Oral Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Healthy Adults
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625001292
For Tourette's syndrome, 2 meta-analyses found cannabis caused significant reductions in tic severity & premonitory urges
Cannabis for Tic Control: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Its Efficacy in Tourette Syndrome Management (P10-5.013)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000210898
Evaluating the Efficacy of Cannabis-based Medicines in Managing Tourette Syndrome: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis and Systematic Review (P10-5.027)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000208686
In young people with Fragile X Syndrome (a genetic disorder of intellectual disability & a wide range of comorbidities), CBD gel caused improvements to scores for irritability & the caregiver's impression of change to disruptive behaviors
Long-term Safety and Effectiveness of ZYN002 Cannabidiol Transdermal Gel in the Treatment of Irritability-Related Behavioral Symptoms in Children and Adolescents with Fragile X Syndrome: Update to Open-Label Extension Study (ZYN2-CL-017) (S31.007)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209008
For tuberous sclerosis complex (a rare genetic disease of non-cancerous tumor growth, seizures & developmental delays), CBD improved dysregulated behavior & overactivity/impulsivity scores
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)âAssociated Neuropsychiatric Disorder (TAND) Outcomes Following Add-on Cannabidiol (CBD) Treatment: 3-Month Analysis of Open-Label Phase 3b/4 Trial EpiCom (P8-9.005)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000212277
In a survey of caregivers for epilepsy, CBD improved seizure duration, the condition of the patient & their own experience
Caregiver-Reported Real-world Use of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Effects on Seizures and Caregiver Burden: Results From the CARE-EpiC Survey (P1-9.003)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000208624
And a survey of nurses reported improvements in seizure frequency, emotional functioning, sleep, cognition, communication & physical functioning
Nurse-Reported Outcomes of Cannabidiol (CBD) Treatment in the Long-Term Care (LTC) Setting: Results From the BEhavior, COgnition, and More With EpidiolexÂŽ in the Long-Term Care Setting (BECOME-LTC) Survey (P2-9.016)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000212295
And in children with severe childhood epilepsies, CBD combined well with the treatment drug fenfluramine
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Efficacy of Fenfluramine in Combination With Cannabidiol: Results From a Phase 1 Study (P9-9.010)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000210560
In a case report of non-epileptic myoclonus (disordered tremulous movements) in a person with Angelman syndrome (a rare neuro-genetic disorder of developmental disabilities & nerve symptoms), after the failure of several other medications, CBD caused significant improvements in movements, sleep, the ability to walk without assistance & overall quality of life
Cannabidiol Intervention for Non-epileptic Myoclonus in Angelman Syndrome (P8-5.027)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000210666
In pharmacy data of people using prescription CBD, an analysis of their dosing regimen
Dosing Patterns and Persistence on Cannabidiol (CBD) â Insights From US Specialty Pharmacy Data (P12-9.005)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000212285
In this multicenter study of epilepsy, CBD reduced seizures & increased scores on the Clinical Global Impression scale
Expanding the therapeutic role of highly purified cannabidiol in monogenic epilepsies: A multicenter real-world study
https://portal.findresearcher.sdu.dk/en/publications/expanding-the-therapeutic-role-of-highly-purified-cannabidiol-in-
At an urban pain clinic, cannabis use was associated with lower levels of opioid painkiller use
Medical Cannabis Experience at an Urban Academic Pain Practice (P4-7.001)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000208681
âPreferences were highest for equal THC/CBD (42%) or low THC/high CBD (36%) concentrations in tincture (43%) or vape (35%) forms with tolerable side effects.â
In people with cancer in palliative care, a trial of subsidized medical cannabis looked at the benefits & barriers
Barriers and Benefits of Subsidized Medical Cannabis in Oncologic Outpatient Palliative Care
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0885392425004312
Finally. This is what the world needs. Free cannabis for people with cancer.
In a survey of Ecuadorian veterinarians, the majority had a general positive perception of CBD & its therapeutic uses
Evaluating the viability of integrating CBD in the treatment of small species: Study of the perception of veterinarians in the City of Quito
https://dspace.ucacue.edu.ec/server/api/core/bitstreams/3fef5ff3-53ce-4170-b264-bfd0b07ddb2c/content
đ Reviews
On cannabis & anxiety, a systematic review of 62 studies on their âmultifaceted relationshipâŚ, highlighting both anxiolytic [anxiety lowering] and anxiogenic [anxiety causing] effectsâ
A Systematic Review of Cannabis and Anxiety: Chicken or Egg?
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-025-00650-x
For neurodegenerative diseases, a review of targeting the CB2 receptor
Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2R) as potential target for the pharmacological treatment of neurodegenerative diseases
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225002380
For anticancer therapy, a review of the efficacy & side effects of cannabinoid treatments
Effect of cannabinoids on the efficacy and side effects of anticancer therapeutic strategies â Current status of preclinical and clinical research
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0163725825000634
â ď¸ Harms
In people who have quit smoking cannabis, they still have persistent changes to their DNA methylation (epigenetics, the turning on & off certain genes) related to aging & cancer pathways
Cannabis smoking is associated with persistent epigenome-wide disruptions despite smoking cessation
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12890-025-03634-9
In people with bipolar disorder I, cannabis use at a younger age was associated with a higher prevalence of first-episode psychosis, more psychotic symptoms & an increased likelihood of discontinuing treatment, but not higher relapse rates
Cannabis and tobacco use in bipolar disorder: Associations with early onset, psychotic symptoms, and relapse risk (2015-2019)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032725005877
A case report of an adolescent with an overdose from fentanyl-laced cannabis
Fentanyl-laced Marijuana: A New Crisis in Adolescent Overdose (P5-1.005)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000211958
Just last week, I said that I have never seen a case report about this from medical professionals. But now, here it is...
A case of a young person with an unusual vascular spasm in the brain & a recurrent thunderclap headache after cannabis use
Unveiling Unconventional Demographics: Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome in a Young Male With Marijuana Use
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39965145/
And a case report of cannabis use linked to an atrioventricular block of the heart
CANNABIS INDUCED 2ND DEGREE AV BLOCK
https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1062&context=northtexas2025
In racial & sexual minorities, cannabis use linked to an increased odds of depression but not heart attack or asthma
The Association Between Marijuana Use and Myocardial Infarction, Asthma, and Depression in Racial and Sexual Minorities: BRFSS 2016-2022
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2773065425000318
For synthetic cannabinoids leading to hyper-coagulability (blood clotting too much, a risk factor for stroke), a case report & literature review
Synthetic Marijuana Associated Hyper-coagulability: An Undermined Stroke Risk Factor (P4-14.004)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000211027
In brain scans of adolescents, prenatal cannabis exposure was associated with alterations in white matter tracts & microstructure
The Effect of Prenatal Marijuana Exposure on White Matter Microstructure and Cortical Morphology During Late Childhood
https://www.ajnr.org/content/early/2025/04/06/ajnr.A8774.abstract
âWe found that prenatal exposure to marijuana is associated with brain alterations in white matter tracts and cortical regions essential for goal directed behaviors, including motivation, cognitive skills for achieving specific objectives, and emotional processing.â
đ Preclinical
(basically, the phytocannabinoid research goes here & the ECS research goes below)
In aging mice with memory impairment & brain inflammation, 7 months of CBD reduced their cognitive decline & inflammatory response
Effects of cannabidiol (CBD) treatments on age-related cognitive decline in C57 mice
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2025.1567650/abstract
In diabetic mice, CBD improved blood glucose levels & alleviated their mood & memory deficits by boosting their low levels of anandamide & 2-AG, suppression of the HMGB1-TLR4 pathway & anti-inflammatory effects in the microglia (guardian immune cells of the brain)
Potentiation of endocannabinoid signaling alleviates depressive-like behavior in diabetic mice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2950200425000114
In a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, the chronic use of PEA reduced neural inflammation, improved cognitive function, restored dendritic spine density & reduced astrogliosis (an abnormal increase in the number of astrocytes, the most predominant brain support cell)
Chronic palmitoylethanolamide administration via slow-release subcutaneous pellets promotes neuroprotection and mitigates neuroinflammation in the Tg2576 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fncel.2025.1571428/abstract
In a mouse model of neuroinflammation, CBD-rich cannabis extract reduced anxiety-like behaviors, cognitive deficits, oxidative stress, inflammation & locomotor impairments better than synthetic CBD
Cannabidiol-Rich Cannabis sativa L. Extract Alleviates LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation Behavioral Alterations, and Astrocytic Bioenergetic Impairment in Male Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40195769/
In a rat model of male sexual dysfunction, the terpene beta-caryophyllene caused significant improvements via antioxidant effects
Ameliorative Role of β-Caryophyllene on Antioxidant Biomarkers in a Paroxetine-Induced Model of Male Sexual Dysfunction
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39960010/
In a rat model of copper toxicity, cannabis leaf extract reversed the negative changes to serum electrolytes
MITIGATION OF COPPER-INDUCED TOXICITY IN WISTAR RATS' SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PROFILE BY CANNABIS LEAF EXTRACT
https://fjs.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/fjs/article/view/2315
In neurons of the hippocampus (memory center of the brain), THC, CBD & CBDV caused different changes to their firing rates
THC, CBD and minor cannabinoid CBDV differently modulate hippocampal neurons firing
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161813X25000397
𧏠Novel Studies
(my new grab bag section for stuff I havenât quite seen before)
2 biochem deep-dives: on how 2AG is released on demand via extracellular vesicles
The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol is released and transported on demand via extracellular microvesicles
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39977325/
And when CB1 receptors cause their effects, they use several isoforms of their G protein to send their signal
CB1 receptor coupling to extracellular regulated kinase via multiple GÎąi/o isoforms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39975996/
On modifying CBD for better targeting to the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
Mitigating Cannabidiolâs Non-Selective Cytotoxicity via Subcellular Organelle Targeting: Exploring Mitochondrial Targeting Potential
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5c00012
đ° US Headlines & Fav Articles
A whistleblower at METRC (the cannabis track & trace platform) accused the company of enabling illegal cannabis diversion & then retaliating against him when he raised concerns
https://cannabislaw.report/former-metrc-executive-files-federal-whistleblower-lawsuit-accusing-the-company-of-enabling-illegal-marijuana-diversion-and-retaliating-against-him-after-he-raised-concerns-about-the-alleged-practice
And in California, a staffer alleged that the Department of Cannabis Control ignored widespread product diversion
https://www.weedweek.com/stories/calif-dcc-ignored-rampant-diversion-staffer-alleged-in-2021/
In Hawaii, the governor signed a bill to speed the process for expunging cannabis arrest records
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/hawaii-governor-signs-bill-to-speed-marijuana-record-expungements-process
This is one of the most important actions that states can take & it's a shame how few take it seriously.
In Florida, DeSantis took $10M from a legal Medicaid settlement & gave it to his wife's organization, which then contributed millions to a PAC against the state's cannabis legalization initiative
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/article304020886.html
Haha. Of course, a trade group of liquor stores & bars (the American Beverage Licensees) published a memo arguing that cannabis should only be sold from businesses with licenses to sell alcohol
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/alcohol-retailers-say-only-they-should-be-able-to-legally-sell-marijuana-products/
Luckily, this does not clash with my recently published memo arguing that cannabis should be given for free to anyone with the initials LP.
#LawyersGottaLawyer: the largest U.S. association of trial lawyers, the American Association for Justice, officially launched the Cannabis Injury Litigation Group, searching for a payout for themselves & victims of cannabis-related harm
https://mailchi.mp/067316049c96/phone-call-tonight-how-weed-became-the-new-oxycontin-6740845
đ International
In Chile, an adult-use cannabis bill was introduced with backing from the top presidential candidates
https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/04/44743798/chile-moves-to-legalize-adult-use-cannabis-with-backing-from-presidential-candidate
In Italy, the government used emergency powers to push through a hemp flower ban
https://businessofcannabis.com/italian-government-uses-emergency-powers-to-push-through-hemp-ban-criminalising-22000-people-overnight/
âRecent figures suggest that this is set to decimate an industry worth nearly âŹ2bn to the Italian economy, supporting over 22,000 workers.â
In Israel, they will impose tariffs on Canadian cannabis at up to 165% for the next four years
https://stratcann.com/news/israel-to-move-forward-with-tariffs-on-canadian-cannabis-as-high-as-165/
The government accuses Canada of product dumping into their market & to be fair, Canada is basically the world supplier of cheap, decent cannabis & many local industries find it hard to compete.
In Brazil, after last week's decriminalization by the Supreme Court, officials plan to introduce a mandatory referral to treatment if caught with cannabis
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/brazilian-officials-pursue-mandatory-drug-treatment-plan-following-supreme-courts-decriminalization-of-cannabis/
In France, the dinosaurs at the AcadĂŠmie Nationale de MĂŠdecine reiterated their opposition to legalized cannabis
https://www.academie-medecine.fr/la-legalisation-de-lusage-recreatif-du-cannabis-causerait-de-graves-problemes-en-termes-de-sante-publique/
My bet is that my three-year-old will have a doctorate before I can legally consume cannabis here.
In Portugal, 80% of the lawsuits filed against health insurance companies for using CBD to treat children with autism are denied (versus a 92% success rate for other types of treatment)
https://sechat.com.br/noticia/80-das-acoes-judiciais-para-obter-canabidiol-para-autismo-em-criancas-e-adolescentes-sao-negadas-em-sp
In the Pakistani province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, cannabis cultivation will be legalized in certain districts
https://www.nation.com.pk/15-Apr-2025/kp-govt-to-legalise-cannabis-cultivation-in-selected-districts
On the creation of the Paraguayan bricks of cannabis
https://canamo.net/noticias/mundo/como-se-produce-el-prensado-paraguayo-y-cuales-son-sus-riesgos
In Mexico, a public health analysis of strategies for strengthening their proposed adult-use cannabis legalization
LegalizaciĂłn de cannabis recreativa: lecciones de salud pĂşblica para MĂŠxico
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39977202/
âď¸ Business, Laws & Education
Trump's tariffs already affecting the cannabis industry supply chain
https://mjbizdaily.com/cannabis-industry-supply-chain-feeling-effects-of-trump-tariffs/
An argument for stronger workplace protections for medical cannabis & psychedelic users
Increasing Employment Discrimination Protections for Users of Medical Marijuana and Psychedelics
https://scholarship.shu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2132&context=shlj
For Black-owned labels in cannabis & psychedelic markets, four different surveys on people's responses
From Stigma to Support: âBlack-Ownedâ Labels and Expertise Stereotypes in Cannabis and Psychedelics Markets
https://academic.oup.com/jcr/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jcr/ucaf022/8108403?redirectedFrom=fulltext
In physical dispensaries & online sellers, their different tactics for marketing & for checking IDs (often pretty easily circumvented)
Age-Gating and Marketing Differences Between Storefront and Non-Storefront Cannabis Retailers
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968484/
For cannabis tourism, an analysis of shared values & corporate social responsibility among Canadian cannabis tourism operators
Approaching Cannabis Tourism With Shared Value in Legal Contexts
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/jtr.70014
đ The War on Drugs
History Corner: a censored 1970 essay about the CIA & their drug smuggling during the Vietnam War
https://www.lewrockwell.com/lrc-blog/peter-dale-scott-on-early-oss-cia-relationship-with-the-international-drug-networks/
In Ecuador, the president accused of ties to drug trafficking
https://insightcrime.org/news/ecuadors-election-sees-president-accused-drug-trade-ties/
In Mexico, a UN analysis of how drug traffickers capture state institutions
From drug trafficking to state capture
https://www.wider.unu.edu/sites/default/files/Publications/Working-paper/PDF/wp2025-19-from-drug-trafficking-state-capture.pdf
An analysis of the Wiz Khalifa controversy when he toured Pablo Escobar's sites in Colombia & a meditation on the Black American âhustlerâ & the Latin American ânarcoâ
The WIZ KHALIFA CONTROVERSY and HIP- HOPâS PABLO ESCOBAR ARCHIVES
https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/122000815/Esquivel_Suarez_The_Wiz_Khalifa_Controversy_and_Hip_Hop_s_Pablo_Escobar-libre.pdf
The Government Accountability Office released a report on the counterdrug work of the Department of Defense & the National Guard
Drug Control: DOD and National Guard Align Counterdrug Policies and Guidance with Federal Laws
https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-25-107590
In Atlanta, an analysis found that cannabis decriminalization led to a reduction in violent crime
The Impact of Marijuana Decriminalization on Crime: Evidence from Atlanta
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5165064
A review of David Pozenâs new book âThe Constitution of the War on Drugsâ
Race, the Academy, and The Constitution of the War on Drugs
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A13%3A35728653/detailv2
From law enforcement data, cannabis legalization did not significantly change the seizure of non-cannabis drugs & it decreased the Black-white ratio for cannabis seizures
State adult-use cannabis policy effects on law enforcement efforts to disrupt drug markets
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095539592500101X
In rural Colombia, an analysis of when landowners encounter drug traffickers
Landowners Meet Drug Traffickers: Coercive Networks and Violence in Rural Colombia
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/anti.70018
In Pakistan, on the challenges faced by anti-narcotic forces
Challenges Faced by Anti-Narcotics Force in Combating Drugs Trafficking: A case study of Regional Directorate Peshawar
https://academia.edu.pk/index.php/Journals/article/view/97
In Indonesia, on their plan against drug trafficking
Overcoming a Recurring Problem: Delving Into Bakamla Riâs Role and Path for Development Against Drug Trafficking
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390495364_Overcoming_a_Recurring_Problem_Delving_Into_Bakamla_Ri%27s_Role_and_Path_for_Development_Against_Drug_Trafficking
A thesis project on the inefficacy of the War on Drugs
Drugs Donât Kill, Policy Does: The Inefficacy of the War on Drugs in the United States
https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/plugins/generic/pdfJsViewer/pdf.js/web/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fjps.library.utoronto.ca%2Findex.php%2Frespublica%2Farticle%2Fdownload%2F42934%2F33760%2F124367
A personal story on what it's like to have a sister on the streets battling addiction
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/moncton-overdoses-opioid-drug-addiction-homelessness-1.7507888
DEA says dealers moving to the old school âtrash canâ vials
https://www.aol.com/children-playgrounds-targeted-drug-runners-080021538.html
#CANNABIS
In the UK, a ringleader & 10 accomplices of a cannabis smuggling group arrested for bringing it in from a southern Thai island
https://cannabislaw.report/alleged-uk-ringleader-of-smuggling-group-shipping-cannabis-from-koh-samui-to-london-has-been-arrested/
And in the UK, a cannabis factory discovered with 140 plants
https://cannabislaw.report/uk-140000-cannabis-factory-discovered-in-long-eaton/
And in the Netherlands, 13 bags of hashish found in a boat off the coast (apparently, 145 kilograms = ~1.5M euros)
https://cannabislaw.report/police-seize-145-kilograms-of-hashish-from-boat-off-scheveningen-one-arrested/
#DRUGS
Photos of the US Coast Guard seizing 24 tons of drugs from a narco-sub
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-coast-guard-seized-510-195034263.html
https://themercury.com/news/national/coast-guard-seizes-over-500m-in-suspected-cartel-drugs/article_56aa5f25-985d-5608-8b29-664ca17c7504.html
And in India, the Coast Guard seized 300 kilograms of narcotics from a ship
https://hindustanherald.com/indian-coast-guard-drug-seizure/
đĄď¸ Harm Reduction
In Canada, Conservatives vow to close all supervised consumption sites
https://www.ctvnews.ca/federal-election-2025/article/conservative-plan-to-close-overdose-prevention-sites-would-cost-lives-researcher-says/
In Alberta, the Compassionate Intervention Act will strip people who use drugs of due process & force them into medical treatment/incarceration
https://drugdatadecoded.ca/alberta-ends-due-process-for-people-who-use-drugs-2/
https://lethbridgeherald.com/news/lethbridge-news/2025/04/17/changes-to-addiction-care-wont-work-say-ndp-friends-of-medicare/
https://lethbridgeherald.com/news/lethbridge-news/2025/04/16/province-announces-sweeping-changes-for-addiction-care/
In Winnipeg, the community rejected a proposed safe consumption site location
https://winnipegsun.com/news/gold-point-douglas-pushback-community-rejects-proposed-drug-site-location
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2025/04/16/law-enforcement-part-of-supervised-consumption-site-plan-police-say
But the local hospital unveiled harm reduction vending machines
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/healthbox-vending-machine-st-boniface-hospital-winnipeg-1.7511488
In Massachusetts, the new top federal prosecutor said supervised injection sites are illegal
https://www.wbjournal.com/article/new-top-federal-prosecutor-in-mass-says-supervised-injection-sites-are-illegal
https://wbsm.com/massachusetts-injection-sites-trump-healey/
In London, supervised drug-use sites are not open to people who smoke illegal drugs, even though it is generally found to be the most common ingestion method
https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/1.7508010
In Ontario, photos of the final days of a safe consumption site.
https://www.thecanadianpressnews.ca/health/people-dont-judge-you-inside-the-final-days-of-a-safe-consumption-site-in-toronto/article_a7cc6a03-aea9-57c6-82c2-61ca4f80ace5.html
An SSDP chart on the best types of naloxone to use: âMore Naloxone is Not Always Betterâ
https://ssdp.org/blog/empathy-over-excess-more-naloxone-is-not-always-better/
In Canadian people who use drugs, a thesis project on access to an unregulated community-based model of cannabis distribution
Access to unregulated community-based models of cannabis distribution among people who use unregulated drugs in Canada
https://open.library.ubc.ca/soa/cIRcle/collections/ubctheses/24/items/1.0448348
Research
A description of the Canadian Red Cross's humanitarian naloxone distribution program
Description and evaluation of a national humanitarian opioid poisoning education and naloxone distribution program
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40240741/
At the first legal US overdose prevention center, a survey of the neighbors found widespread support
Community Acceptability of the First State-Authorized Overdose Prevention Center in the United States
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390672515_Community_Acceptability_of_the_First_State-Authorized_Overdose_Prevention_Center_in_the_United_States
In using financial incentives for abstinence from drug use, a meta-analysis of 39 studies found improved abstinence rates
Financial incentives for substance abstinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968741/
In the US, a map of substance use disorder mortality
Spatiotemporal analysis of substance use disorder mortality in the United States: an observational study of emerging hotspots and vulnerable populations (2005â2020)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40242321/
In US media, an analysis of the portrayal of harm reduction (surprisingly, the majority were positive)
"Either way, they will use. And so, probably, would you:" A critical discourse analysis of harm reduction portrayal in United States opinion news media
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40220508/
In an online drug forum, analysis of their grassroots harm reduction knowledge
Vernacular and discursive harm reduction: an ethnography of an online drug community
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40229662/
In psychiatric mental health nursing, a call for integrating harm reduction principles
Harm Reduction as an Essential Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Skill
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40219798/
In Native American & Alaska Native people, the overdose mortality rate rose 5X since 1999
Drug overdose mortality rates among nonâHispanic American Indian/Alaska Native individuals, 1999â2022
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40220940/
In Maryland, interviews about people's knowledge & experiences with naloxone
âAll You Can Do is What You Know to Doâ: Naloxone Knowledge and Uncertainty Among People Who Use Drugs in Maryland amid a Volatile Drug Market
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40219904/
At a Nevada harmâreduction vending machine, a survey of people's drug use behaviors
Drug use and harm reduction practices of applicants to a public health vending machine service in Clark County, NV, 2021â2023
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40221778/
In older adults using opioid agonist treatment, a review of 28 studies on their unique challenges and needs
Individuals 45 Years and Older in Opioid Agonist Treatment: A Scoping Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40238591/
For comorbid bipolar disorder & substance use disorder, a review of the bidirectional worsening & recommendations for integrated care
CoâOccurring Bipolar and Substance Use Disorders: A Review of Impacts, Biopsychosocial Mechanisms, Assessment, and Treatment
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40235615/
đ Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
How MÄori People Are Reclaiming Psychedelic Mushroom Medicine
https://atmos.earth/how-maori-people-are-reclaiming-psychedelic-mushroom-medicine/
The Psychoactive Research
For persistent adverse effects from an MDMA treatment, a case report on the successful use of acupuncture & traditional Chinese medicine
Successful treatment of intractable MDMA adverse reactions using acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390431877_Successful_treatment_of_intractable_MDMA_adverse_reactions_using_acupuncture_and_traditional_Chinese_medicine
On Reunion Island, a case report of hallucinations & hospitalization after cannabis mixed with a powdered cocktail of five medicines: citalopram/escitalopram, paroxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine & trihexyphenidyl
Psychoactive cocktail consumption on Reunion Island: A case report
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39953779/
I lay cases like this squarely at the feet of the War on Drugs. People aren't excited to take cocktails of unknown drugs. But if you can't get anything decent that's safely labeled, you'll simply take what you can get. #FucktheDrugWar
For obesity & compulsive eating, a review on the potential of psychedelics
The compulsive eating paradigm: can psychedelics help in treating obesity?
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40337-024-01186-7
The Plant & the History
In Nepal, on the farmer's use of cannabis
Revealed reality of cultivation and licit/illicit use of Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) in the western mid-hills of Nepal: a list experiment
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00276-w
đą Growing & Processing
In California cannabis producers, a survey of their mitigation measures against wildfires
Wildfire impacts and mitigation strategies among California cannabis producers
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0321476
On protocols for micropropagation & tools to assess epigenetic changes in tissue cultures
Optimization of micropropagation protocols and assessment of epigenetic changes in tissue cultures of diverse medical cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) genotypes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669025005618
A method for cloning & propagating cannabis
Implementation of a Standardized Cloning and Propagation Protocol for Optimizing Cannabis sativa L. Cultivation
https://econpapers.repec.org/article/ibnjasjnl/v_3a17_3ay_3a2025_3ai_3a5_3ap_3a1.htm
For medical cannabis, an analysis of optimal nitrogen rates for yield
Optimal nitrogen rates and clonal effects on cannabinoid yields of medicinal cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-96761-6
In hemp, on the growth effects of treatment with GABA, salicylic acid & abisic acid
Effect of Hormonal Treatments on Cannabinoid Content Levels in Female Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Inflorescences
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/7/3445
A review on Bacillus & Paenibacillus as boosters of plant growth in cannabis & soybeans
Frontiers | Bacillus and Paenibacillus as plant growth-promoting bacteria in soybean and cannabis
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2025.1529859/abstract
In hemp leaves experiencing a water deficit, on their accumulation of trigonelline
Accumulation of Trigonelline in the Leaves of Cannabis sativa L. in Response to Water-Deficit Stress
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202504.0637
In Florida, the first report of crown & root rot via the soil pathogen Pythium aphanidermatum
First Report of Pythium aphanidermatum causing crown and root rot in Cannabis sativa (L.) in Florida
https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/abs/10.1094/PDIS-02-25-0435-PDN
âď¸ Formulating & Analyzing
On a rapid analysis of THC levels using mid-infrared spectroscopy
New Analytical Screening Method for Fast Classification of Hemp Oil Based on THC Content
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.4c10753
On quantifying six cannabinoids using an LC-MS/MS method
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF AN LC-MS/MS METHOD FOR THE QUANTIFICATION OF SIX CANNABINOIDS IN COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A8%3A35758152/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A184256749&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
On differentiating CBD & THC isomers using copper ions & electrospray ionization with a mass spectrometry
Differentiation of CBD and â9 -THC Isomers Using Copper Ion Complexation and Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry
https://www.ifrti.org/documents/research/2025/Couch_AAFS%202025.pdf
On separating cannabinoids with an HPLC & a diamond electrode
HPLC method for novel cannabinoid separation with electrochemical detection on boron-doped diamond electrode
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S073170852500216X
đ Food & Nutrition & Hemp Seeds
On creating hemp protein iron chelates for alleviating iron deficiency in humans
Structural characterization and stability studies of hemp peptides and chelates for efficient chelation of ferrous ions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40205828/
For food products, on the properties of hemp protein & carrageenan complexes
Interfacial properties and functionality of hemp protein and carrageenan complexes at oil-water interfaces
https://edepot.wur.nl/659876
In plant-based meat that uses hemp, the effects of fatty acid chain length on properties
Effect of fatty acid chain length on physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of high-moisture meat analogues based on soy-hemp-wheat protein
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39956067/
In broiler chickens, hemp seed cake improved gut health & growth, but not better than soybean meal or corn
Effect of dietary heated hemp seed cake and phytase as soybean meal substitution on broiler chicken performance, carcass yield, visceral organ weight, intestinal health, and serum biochemical parameters
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11250-025-04416-5
đď¸ Industrial Uses & Fiber
For soil contaminated with heavy metals, a thesis project on using hemp & biochar
Assessing Biochar and Industrial Hemp to Remediate Heavy-metal-contaminated Soil
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1047&context=csesuht
In concrete, enhancing durability & strength with hemp & slag
Use of slag and hemp for enhancing the strength and durability properties of concrete: A case study
https://dialnet.unirioja.es/servlet/articulo?codigo=10118093
For hemp insulation, an analysis of thermal conductivity
Evaluating the Thermal Conductivity of Hemp-Based Insulation
https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/18/8/1723
And an analysis of its environmental life cycle
Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of Hemp-based Thermal Insulation: From Agricultural Growth to Manufacturing in the United States
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652625008595
For mining ventilation, a fire-resistant hemp composite
DEVELOPMENT OF HEMP FIBER-REINFORCED FIRE-RESISTANT COMPOSITES FOR SUSTAINABLE MINING VENTILATION SYSTEMS
https://harvest.usask.ca/server/api/core/bitstreams/0237969c-4c0e-46c5-9fa5-ab46a92c896a/content
Analysis of a polymer of hemp & kenaf (hibiscus, aka Deccan Hemp) with ceramic fillers
Mechanical and wear characteristics of kenaf-glass hybrid polymer composites reinforced with SiO2 and ZnO ceramic fillers
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3270/1/020254/3343958/Mechanical-and-wear-characteristics-of-kenaf-glass
And a hemp composite with polymer & zirconium dioxide nanoparticles
Investigation on the mechanical and thermal properties of hemp/polyester composites with integrated zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3270/1/020253/3343959/Investigation-on-the-mechanical-and-thermal
And a hemp fiber reinforced with vinyl ester composites
Impact of fabrication parameters on the performance of hemp fiber-reinforced vinyl ester (HFRVE) composites
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3270/1/020208/3343785/Impact-of-fabrication-parameters-on-the
And a hemp composite with epoxy & nano fillers
Enhancement of mechanical properties in hybrid hemp-epoxy composites with nano-silicon dioxide and nanographene fillers
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3270/1/020251/3343943/Enhancement-of-mechanical-properties-in-hybrid
And on improving a hemp composite with epoxy using nano fillers
Enhancing mechanical properties of hemp fibre/epoxy hybrid nanocomposites through response surface methodology
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3270/1/020248/3343946/Enhancing-mechanical-properties-of-hemp-fibre
A review of hemp for textiles & industrial applications [Turkish]
Industrijska konoplja - odrĹživa alternativa za tekstil i industrijsku primenu
https://scindeks.ceon.rs/article.aspx?artid=0040-23892501004K
(ENDO) CANNABINOID SCIENCE
đĽ Public Health & Effects of Legalization
In states that legalize cannabis, an analysis of public health data found that adolescents had moderate increases to their use while young adults & older adults had large increases to their use
The Impact of Recreational Cannabis Markets on Cannabis Use Among Adolescents and Adults: A Synthetic Control Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968487/
In US cannabis ingestion methods, public health data found smoking to be the most common, followed by eating, vaping & dabbing
Routes of Marijuana Use â Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 22 U.S. States and Two Territories, 2022
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7412a1.htm
In British Columbia, Canada, cannabis legalization saw a rise in calls about cannabis exposure to the poison control center
Impact of legalization on cannabis exposure calls to the British Columbia Poison Control Centre
https://link.springer.com/article/10.17269/s41997-025-01022-8
In France & Italy, a survey of why people use CBD
Therapeutic Use and Other Reasons to Consume Cannabidiol: Insight from the French and Italian Contexts
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39966743/
Adolescents & Young Adults
In adolescents with cannabis use disorder, a study of stigma related to language & gender
Courtesy stigma toward parents of adolescents with cannabis use disorder: examining the role of language and gender in a Canadian sample
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09687637.2025.2487452
On the effects of cannabis legalization on college students, a thesis project deep-dive
A Critical Analysis of Cannabis Legalization Among College Students
https://www.proquest.com/openview/40ec4c899a7c1954fbb83b24e3d8da82/1?cbl=18750&diss=y&pq-origsite=gscholar
In young adults, a poster on increased odds of cannabis use with a major depressive disorder diagnosis within the past year
The silent pandemic: Link between depression, marijuana usage and mental health services after the Covid-19 pandemic
https://commons.stmarytx.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1086&context=rscpos25
In sexually diverse youth, stress is linked to different cannabis use profiles
Stress Mediates the Link Between Sexual Orientation and Cannabis Use Profiles
https://connect.springerpub.com/content/sgrlgbtq/early/2025/04/10/lgbtq-2024-0021.abstract
In Californian young adults, smoke-free policies led to decreased vaping (but not smoking) of nicotine & THC
Exposure to vaping and smoking prohibitions and nicotine and cannabis vaping in a California-based sample of young adults: An ecological momentary assessment study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460325001182
In Irish adolescents, higher levels of cannabis use were associated with being outside after midnight, a lack of parental rule-setting, parental monitoring, intergenerational closure& lack of participation in sports or volunteering
The impact of the home life environment and organised extracurricular activities on adolescent cannabis use: Findings from the Irish Planet Youth Survey
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033350625001301
In college students, on how the contextual factors of their cannabis use relate to their cannabis outcomes
Beyond Frequency and Quantity of Cannabis Consumption Among College Students: Context of Using Cannabis Relates to Cannabis-Related Outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968483/
In adolescents with adverse childhood experiences, a thesis project found an association to higher levels of alcohol & cannabis consumption
The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Alcohol and Marijuana Consumption in High School Students
https://www.exhibit.xavier.edu/curca/2025/schedule/94/
In South Central Appalachian adolescents, a thesis project found no effect of adverse child experiences or a psychological sense of school membership on cannabis use
The Moderating Role of PSSM on the Relationship Between ACEs and Cannabis Use in South Central Appalachia
https://dc.etsu.edu/boland-research-day/2025/presentations/144/
For young adults in Washington state, their drug intake before & during the pandemic
Young adult cannabis, alcohol, nicotine, and nonprescribed pain reliever use in Washington State from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2773065425000306
In the adolescents of Illinois, a survey of their use of cannabis, vapes & tobacco
OPUS Open Portal to University Scholarship - Research Days: Illinoisan Adolescent Use of Cannabis, Electronic Cigarettes, and Combustible Tobacco
https://opus.govst.edu/research_day/2025/thurs_posters/27/
đ§ The Brain & Neurological Disorders
For cannabinoids & epilepsy, an analysis of social media discussions & public perceptions of their use
Cannabinoid Use in Epilepsy: A Qualitative and Quantitative Study of Public Perception via Social Media (P2-9.017)
https://www.neurology.org/doi/abs/10.1212/WNL.0000000000208950
In epilepsy treatment, a thesis project on how purified CBD did not lead to high blood levels of THC [Italian]
Valutazione a lungo termine del profilo di sicurezza del Cannabidiolo Altamente Purificato: analisi dei livelli plasmatici di THC
https://unire.unige.it/handle/123456789/11399
For eye physiology, on the effects of cannabis on the photosensitive retinal ganglion cells
Marijuana and Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells
https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1157&context=optometric_clinical_practice
In a zebrafish model of seizures, the combination of cannabis extract with Linden extract synergistically caused anticonvulsant & antioxidant effects
In Vitro Antioxidant Effect and In Vivo Anticonvulsant Activity of the Association Between Cannabis sativa and TiliaâĂâviridis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43450-025-00645-9
Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder
For religion/spirituality & substance use, this thesis project found a significant correlation between the consumption of cannabis, alcohol, mushrooms & LSD
Religion/Spirituality and Substance Use
https://scholarworks.moreheadstate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1052&context=celebration_posters_2025
In people with high levels of PTSD, their levels of chronic pain significantly predicted adverse outcomes from cannabis use
Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Moderate the Relationship Between Chronic Pain and Adverse Cannabis Outcomes: A Pilot Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968491/
In people with heavy cannabis use, high stress increased their impulsiveness & cravings
Acute Stress Effect on Delay Discounting and Cannabis Demand Among Individuals Endorsing High-Frequency Cannabis Use
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968482/
In a tobacco smoking cessation trial, cannabis use did not alter their success rates but they did tend to use more cannabis
CHANGE in Cigarette, other tobacco product, and cannabis use among individuals who used or did not use CANNABIS during a smoking cessation trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39976595/
In people with alcohol dependence syndrome versus cannabis dependence syndrome, those using alcohol had higher levels of impulsivity
Impulsivity And Dependency: A Comparative Look at Alcohol and Cannabis
https://www.jccpractice.com/article/impulsivity-and-dependency-a-comparative-look-at-alcohol-and-cannabis-503/
In a rat model of cocaine use disorder, on using squaramides as allosteric modulators of the CB1 receptor
Development of Squaramides as Allosteric Modulators of the CB1 Receptor: Synthesis, Computational Studies, Biological Characterization, and Effects against Cocaine-Induced Behavioral Sensitization and Reinstatement in Rats
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c00383
In a rat model of PTSD comorbid with cannabis & alcohol use disorder, a thesis project modulating glutamate (the brainâs primary excitatory neurotransmitter) helped to decrease the deficits in fear extinction
Behavioral Alterations in THC and Alcohol Co-Use: Insights into Fear Learning and Implications of mGlu5 Modulation
https://dc.etsu.edu/boland-research-day/2025/presentations/194/
Reproduction & Hormones
For pregnant women with cannabis-related emergency department visits, a review of their medical records
A retrospective medical record audit of the management of cannabis-related emergency department presentations, hospital admissions and hyperemesis of pregnant women who self-reported non-medicinal cannabis use to a substance use in parenting and pregnancy service
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40210203/
In young mothers, on the relationship between their response to infant cries & their use of tobacco or cannabis
Perceptions of Infant Cry Sounds Among Tobacco and Cannabis Using Mothers and Their Association with Tobacco and Cannabis Cravings
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202504.0158/v1
For the inhibition of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide), a review of the effects on the release of corticosterone (the key hormone of the adrenal gland)
Effects of pharmacological inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase on corticosterone release: a systematic review of preclinical studies
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44192-025-00155-z
đŚ The Immune System & Microbial
In people living with HIV, there was more cannabis use among those with more bothersome symptoms, especially memory, depression, anxiety & nausea
Cannabis Use and Self-Reported Bothersome Symptoms in People with HIV
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39968492/
For malaria, a computer analysis of the potential of cannabinoids, with THCV & THC being the strongest
POTENTIAL OF Cannabis sativa BIOACTIVE COMPOUND AS PfNR PROTEIN INHIBITOR FOR ANTIMALARIAL DRUG CANDIDATE: AN IN-SILICO STUDY
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Yosua-Gultom-2/publication/390495364_Overcoming_a_Recurring_Problem_Delving_Into_Bakamla_Ri's_Role_and_Path_for_Development_Against_Drug_Trafficking/links/67f0c03576d4923a1af717a2/Overcoming-a-Recurring-Problem-Delving-Into-Bakamla-Ris-Role-and-Path-for-Development-Against-Drug-Trafficking.pdf#page=210
Against the drug-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, on using silver & gold nanoparticles synthesized from cannabis waste extract
Antibacterial properties of silver and gold nanoparticles synthesized using Cannabis sativa waste extract against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00272-0
Pain, Musculoskeletal & Surgeries
In people getting a liver transplant, pre-operative cannabis use was associated with higher levels of morphine use 48 hours after surgery but no other painkiller difference after that or any effect on hospital stay, readmission or 90-day mortality
Cannabis and liver transplant in the era of legalization: Effects of pre-transplant cannabis use on postoperative opioid use and transplant outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39976576/
In a survey of orthopedic patients, their primary use of CBD was for pain management& the majority were interested in learning more about CBD
Cannabidiol Perceptions and Use in the Orthopaedic Patient Population
https://journals.lww.com/jbjsoa/fulltext/2025/06000/cannabidiol_perceptions_and_use_in_the_orthopaedic.5.aspx?context=latestarticles
For healthcare practitioner knowledge around cannabis & operations, a thesis project of a knowledge assessment test for education
Enhanced Preoperative Screening: Implementing Additional Marijuana Education to Heighten Awareness of Perioperative Complications
https://kb.osu.edu/items/5d53f4ea-c411-4cd8-9faa-86b270532fcf
In a mouse model of alcohol use disorder, their increased pain sensitivity due to alcohol withdrawal was not reversed by a number of endocannabinoid enzyme inhibitors
Chronic intermittent ethanol produces nociception through endocannabinoid-independent mechanisms in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39975399/
In tissue samples related to osteoarthritis, an analysis of the involvement & genetic expression of the endocannabinoids
The emerging role of endocannabinoid system modulation in human fibroblast-like synoviocytes: Exploring new biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225002343
For pain, a computer analysis of targeting the CB1 & TRPV1 vanilloid receptor
Nutraceuticals Targeting Cannabinoid Receptor 1 and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 for Pain Relief: A Computational Screening Approach
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/original_article/pdf/351528/20250406-261656-dhs9d8.pdf
đ˝ď¸ The Guts, Nutrition & the Microbiome
In tissue samples of people with eosinophilic esophagitis (a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus), they had increased levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG & decreased levels of the MAGL enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG)
The endocannabinoid system drives eosinophil infiltration during eosinophilic esophagitis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352345X25000566
In a tissue model of intestinal fibrosis (scarring), inhibition of the NAAA enzyme (which breaks down PEA & oleoylethanolamide) reduced fibrosis & genes related to fibrosis via immune system signaling
Pharmacological Inhibition of N-Acylethanolamine Acid Amidase (NAAA) Mitigates Intestinal Fibrosis Through Modulation of Macrophage Activity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39211986/
In chickens with C. perfringens (food poisoning), CBD combined with nano-selenium balanced the immune system, lowered the excessive inflammatory responses & improved the intestinal barrier
Cannabidiol and nano-selenium mediate intestinal barrier function by affecting mucosal microstructures, and gut-associated immunological and oxidative stress response in the gut of chickens infected with C. perfringens
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1529449/abstract
In a mouse model of a binge eating disorder, the combination of activating the CB2 receptor & blocking the D4 dopamine receptor reduced binge-like food intake
Coadministration antagonist dopamine receptor D4 with agonist CB2 receptor decreases binge-like intake of palatable food in mice
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/behavioral-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2025.1572374/abstract
In a female rat model of feeding, a drug that activates both the CB1 & CB2 receptors caused acute increases in food intake & an impulsive response to sucrose
Edible cannabinoids impact meal structure and food impulsivity in female rats
https://www.cell.com/iscience/pdf/S2589-0042(25)00676-5.pdf
The Genitourinary System
In young people with lower urinary tract symptoms, they were more likely to have a previous diagnosis of cannabis use disorder
IP09-33âCANNABIS USE IS ASSOCIATED WITH NEW DIAGNOSES OF LUTS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTSâA LARGE CLAIMS DATABASE STUDY
https://www.auajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1097/01.JU.0001109864.72014.8e.33
In a tissue model of bladder pain syndrome, activating the CB2 receptor reduced inflammatory cytokines
MP27-16âCANNABINOID RECEPTOR 2 SIGNALING IN REGULATING INFLAMMATION IN INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/BLADDER PAIN SYNDROME
https://www.auajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1097/01.JU.0001110040.79467.6e.16
The Skin & Topicals
For transdermal & topical cannabinoid delivery, a thesis project literature review
Advancements in Transdermal and Topical Cannabinoid Delivery: A Literature Review
https://dc.etsu.edu/boland-research-day/2025/presentations/217/
In a mouse model of chronic itch, the CB2 receptor controls itching signals via spinal microglia (guardian immune cells of the nervous system)
Cannabinoid CB2 receptor controls chronic itch by regulating spinal microglial activation and synaptic transmission
https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(25)00330-4
In a tissue model of lymphedema (swelling due to lymph fluid), a hydrogel complex of CBD & tetrahydrocurcumin (unfortunately & confusingly, this active ingredient of turmeric is also abbreviated THC) caused new blood vessel formation & anti-inflammatory properties
Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol Cyclodextrin Complex in Polymeric Micelle and Tetrahydrocurcumin Cyclodextrin Complex Loaded in Hydrogel to Treat Lymphedema
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/7/3428
Cancer & Chemotherapy
For prostate cancer, this single-center study found no association between lifetime cannabis use & prostate cancer development
PD16-06âINVESTIGATING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN LIFETIME CANNABIS EXPOSURE AND PROSTATE CANCER INCIDENCE: A SINGLE CENTRE CASE-CONTROL STUDY
https://www.auajournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1097/01.JU.0001109920.19321.ff.06
In bladder cancer cells, cannabis extracts inhibited cell growth, reduced cell migration & initiated cell death
Targeting bladder cancer: Potent anti-cancer effects of cannabichromene and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-rich cannabis strains
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214388225000335
In uveal melanoma tissue (a most common eye cancer), CBD, CBG & their derivatives killed cancer cells (with CBD being the strongest)
Anticancer properties of 12 newly synthesized CBD- and CBG-derivatives against OCM-1 and OCM-3 human uveal melanoma cell lines
https://dea.lib.unideb.hu/items/0697ea54-62bf-41fb-9ee1-6569f36d4cfa
In kidney cancer cells, this thesis project found that CBG & a synthetic CBG derivative showed anti-proliferation effects
What could be a possible biological effect of cannabigerol (compound PFD 45/I) on human renal cell carcinoma cells?
https://dea.lib.unideb.hu/items/c4659cc1-bf39-4808-8580-d48388a4d1e5
đ Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids
On detecting synthetic cannabinoids in wastewater
Simultaneous enrichment and ultra-high sensitivity detection of multi-structural synthetic cannabinoids in large-volume wastewater
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00604-025-07128-7
Analysis of the breakdown patterns of new synthetic cannabinoids based on electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Analysis of Fragmentation Pathways of New-Generation Synthetic Cannabinoids (INACA, IATA, FUPPYCA, and OXIZID Type Compounds) Based on Electrospray Ionization High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jasms.5c00002
đŹ Biochemical Discoveries & Detection Tools
For inhibiting the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide), a review of potential drugs from natural sources
FAAH Modulators from Natural Sources: A Collection of New Potential Drugs
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/14/7/551
A thesis project on lactams as inhibitors of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide)
Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of lactams as Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase inhibitors
https://dial.uclouvain.be/pr/boreal/object/boreal:300430
On how the endocannabinoid cousins N-acyltaurines bind with serum albumin (an abundant protein in the blood)
Elucidating the interactions of endocannabinoid-like neurotransmitters, N-acyltaurines and bovine serum albumin: Spectroscopic and computational approaches
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000527362500015X
Society of Biological Psychiatry 2025 Meeting
[This is the most frustrating conference of the year for me. In the 6 years Iâve been doing some form of this newsletter, this SBP releases its quite intriguing abstracts â but only the first few sentences. Unlike any other journal or conference out there, they don't release enough to even get more than a tantalizing hint of what the findings are. For shame]
In a genetic analysis of Alzheimer's disease, a polymorphism of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide) may have slower neurodegeneration rates
6. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Single Nucleotide Polymorphism rs324420A/C is Associated With Rates of Cerebral Atrophy and Cognitive Decline in Alzheimerâs Disease
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00341-5/abstract
Does THC alter brain levels of the FAAH enzyme? Thanks to this incomplete abstract, we donât know
614. Investigating the Effects of Nabilone on Endocannabinoid Metabolism in the Human Brain
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00951-5/abstract
In people having a bone marrow transplant, circulating endocannabinoids may affect outcomes, but we don't know
126. Resilience and Circulating Endocannabinoids in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00461-5/abstract
In a mouse model of PTSD, acute stress may alter their endocannabinoid signaling in the amygdala, but we don't know
Acute Stress via Retrograde Endocannabinoid Signaling in the Lateral Amygdala Disrupts Engram Ensemble Specificity to Generalize Threat Memory in Mice
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00116-7/abstract
In heavy cannabis users, an AI tried to do something to predict their use
608. Problem Cannabis Risk Network Associated With Cannabis Cue-Induced Craving
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00945-X/abstract
In people with both cannabis use disorder & major depressive disorder, something apparently changed when they took an extended cannabis break
580. The Effects of Extended Cannabis Abstinence in Adults With Co-Occurring Cannabis Use Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00917-5/abstract
In people at a high risk of psychosis, an analysis of cannabis laws probably found something
Cannabis Use in Clinical High-Risk for Psychosis Across Different Legal Environments: Preliminary Findings From the Global Accelerating Medicines PartnershipÂŽ Schizophrenia (AMPÂŽ SCZ) Study
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00197-0/abstract
In a preclinical model of psychosis, a negative allosteric modulator the CB1 receptor did... something
568. Allosteric and Orthosteric CB1-R Modulation in Preclinical Models of Psychosis
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00905-9/abstract
A model of psychosis with links between the endocannabinoids & dopamine transporters
566. The Modulatory Role of Endocananbinoids in Hyperdopamineric PHENOTYPES: A Novel âAT-RISKâ Model of Psychosis
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00903-5/abstract
In men with opioid use disorder, something about brain scans of their CB1 receptor availability
611. Cannabinoid 1 Receptor Availability in Men With Opioid Use Disorder: A Positron Emission Tomography Study
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00948-5/abstract
In people using prescription opioids, on the effects of social stress on their endocannabinoid system
622. The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Social Stress Reactivity Among Non-Medical Prescription Opioid Users
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00959-X/abstract
In a mouse model of high dopamine levels (linked to schizophrenia), a negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor did something
570. Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor Negative Allosteric Molecules: In Vitro Pharmacology and in Vivo Efficacy in a Mouse Model of Hyperdopaminergia
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00907-2/abstract
In brain scans of people with alcohol use disorder, levels of the FAAH enzyme could be predictors of relapse but who knows?
613. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase as a Predictor of Relapse in Alcohol Use Disorder: A Pet Study with [11C] CURB
https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(25)00950-3/abstract
Thanks.
- lex
PS: This weekâs album of Nigerian drumming is âJuju Musicâ by King Sunny AdĂŠ, the king of juju music (the dancing hybrid of Western pop, Yoruba praise music, Ghanaian highlife & Nigerian guitars) & the first to bring the talking drum to the global stage. Released in 1982, this was the first international album by a West African artist to hit big in Western markets. Born into a family of Yoruba royalty, he began his music career during university by playing with the highlife band of Moses Olaiya's Federal Rhythm Dandies. By 1967, he formed his own band, The Green Spots, & soon after, thanks to his disgust with the exploitation of artists by the recording industry, he started his own label. His release of âJuju Musicâ in 1982 led to worldwide acclaim & to the first Grammy nomination for a Nigerian. In the â90s, he founded the King Sunny AdĂŠ Foundation that included a performing arts center, a recording studio & housing for young musicians. He also took the money from his early hits to found businesses as diverse as an oil firm, a mining company, a nightclub, a film production company, a PR firm & of course, his record label specializing in African artists. Itâs said he employs over 700 people in his companies. He later served as the chairman of the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria & became one of the most influential African musicians of all time.
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Hi! I'm going to try a healing protocol. One of my items needed is CBD. Do you know good source for American made CBD?
TIA