C&P#58: Cannabinoids for fibro, MS, dementia, muscle repair, insomnia & Tourette’s
The War on Drugs is horrifying
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 58th edition of Cannabinoids & the People, a weekly newsletter where I collect all the new cannabinoid science. You can check out last week’s issue here & if you haven’t subscribed yet, please do.
As always, here’s the Living Glossary of Cannabinoid Terms & at the bottom is the album of the week.
Thanks everyone for the kind words about my surgery. It’s been a week & I’m finally feeling not terrible. So hooray!
And I had to work hard to catch up from missing a week of the newsletter, but I managed to get current on all the science & news for this special double issue. It’s a lot of pretty amazing research for you so enjoy.
This week…
Cannabinoids for fibro, MS, dementia, muscle repair, insomnia & Tourette’s
CBD for nicotine & opiate withdrawals as well as the sleep of alcohol use disorder
Cannabis use for less fatty livers & no extra COPD
3 on HIV
#EntourageEffectProof
One FDA rant
Double study on men having emotional problems from cannabis
CBD tech for COVID & melanomas
Drug testing new moms & babies for THC a waste of time
Again, cannabis not great for heart health
Cannabis increases pancreatic cancer in young people
A dozen pieces on the sticky cannabis/psychosis relationship
CBD for the appetite of your large yellow croakers
Bee propolis from cannabis
A request to spread the word
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Weed Talk News: Amsterdam bans smoking in the Red Light District + Isle of Man plans to enter medical cannabis, diversifying from shady financial dealings
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Best Of Cannabinoid Science...
A breakdown of the cannabis microbials problem by Ben Owens (from his newsletter Hobby Grow which I just found & recommend)
On the terpenes that enhance the cannabis high by Nate Seltenrich
https://projectcbd.org/science/which-terpenes-enhance-the-cannabis-high
Clinical
Dr. Franjo Grotenhermen interviews a patient about their positive experience with cannabis for acne inversa (an autoinflammatory skin condition that attacks hair follicles & causes painful recurring abscesses in sweaty areas of the body)
Case in Context: Acne Inversa (Hidradenitis Suppurativa)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37074343/
For fibromyalgia patients in the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, cannabinoid medicines improved sleep, anxiety & quality of life
Assessment of clinical outcomes in patients with fibromyalgia: Analysis from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37199833/
For sleep, chronic use of a low dose of CBD is safe & effective but the addition of CBN or CBC didn't seem to improve the effects
The Safety and Comparative Effectiveness of Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoid Formulations for the Improvement of Sleep: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37162192/
In patients with multiple sclerosis, sprays of 1:1 THC:CBD helped with urinary disturbances & hyperactive bladders as well as decreased spasms, pain & tremors & an improved quality of life
Nabiximols oromucosal spray in patients with multiple sclerosis-related bladder dysfunction: A prospective study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37062198/
In dementia patients, six months of 3% CBD solution improved all of their neurological measurements & the researchers suggested it as a more effective & safe choice than the typical intervention
The Effect of Cannabidiol 3% on Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Dementia - Six-Month Follow-Up
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37153956/
In a long-term follow-up of 25 patients with Tourette syndrome, a subset of them found cannabis to help improve control of their symptoms
Licensed Medical Cannabis Use in Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome: A Retrospective Long-term Follow-Up
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37172308/
In public health data, cannabis use associated with lower levels of liver steatosis (fatty liver disease)
Marijuana use is inversely associated with liver steatosis detected by transient elastography in the general United States population in NHANES 2017-2018: A cross-sectional study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37200309
In older people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cannabis use had no effect on disease progression in any of the variables measured
Impact of Marijuana Smoking on COPD Progression in a Cohort of Middle-Aged and Older Persons
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37199732/
According to the Quebec Cannabis Registry, medical cannabis is effective for cancer related pain
Medical cannabis is effective for cancer-related pain: Quebec Cannabis Registry results
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37130724/
Exceptional cancer treatment of a glioblastoma (most aggressive brain cancer) using cannabis, melatonin & oxygen-ozone therapy for a complete remission
The Effects of a Combination of Medical Cannabis, Melatonin, and Oxygen–Ozone Therapy on Glioblastoma Multiforme: A Case Report
https://www.mdpi.com/2571-841X/6/2/22
In patients using isolated CBD & everolimus (a common drug combination for treating tuberous sclerosis complex (the growth of many benign tumors)), the presence of CBD increased the blood levels of everolimus by ~2.5x & the researchers recommend blood monitoring to maintain appropriate dosages
Pharmacokinetic Drug-Drug Interaction With Coadministration of Cannabidiol and Everolimus in a Phase 1 Healthy Volunteer Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37132402/
In older adults with HIV, moderate cannabis users had better global cognitive performance but recent use linked to worse cognition (ie: they were high)
A longitudinal study of cannabis use and risk for cognitive and functional decline among older adults with HIV
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37155086/
And in people with HIV, cannabis helped to keep pain from interfering with life
Cannabis use frequency and pain interference among people with HIV
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37201209/
And in microglia (brain immune cells) infected with HIV, CBD reduced the production of a large number of inflammatory cytokines & chemokines (more than THC), reduced genes related to the inflammasome cascade (NLRP3) & significantly reduced the expression of HIV
Anti-inflammatory effects of CBD in human microglial cell line infected with HIV-1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37147420/
Among daily nicotine e-cigarette users, 320 milligrams of CBD reduced withdrawal symptoms & anxiety during abstinence
Cannabidiol Reduces Nicotine Withdrawal Severity and State Anxiety During an Acute E-cigarette Abstinence Period: A Novel, Open-Label Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37167367/
Epidemiological data shows cannabis, especially when paired with alcohol, to be causative of pancreatic cancer in young people
Sociodemographically Stratified Exploration of Pancreatic Cancer Incidence in Younger US Patients: Implication of Cannabis Exposure as a Risk Factor
https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7422/14/2/16
In males, more emotional dysregulation from problematic cannabis use
Sex Moderates Associations Between Dimensions of Emotion Dysregulation and Problematic Cannabis Use
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37155938/
“Male cannabis users reported greater difficulties with overall emotion dysregulation, nonacceptance, goals, impulse, strategies, and clarity. Overall emotion dysregulation, nonacceptance, goals, impulse, and strategies were associated with more severe problematic cannabis use, with relationships weaker in female cannabis users. Lack of emotional awareness was associated with less severe problematic cannabis use in male cannabis users only.”
In men, cannabis use associated with an increased risk of transition from suicidal ideation to making a suicide attempt
High Risk or Risky Highs: Understanding the Links Between Alcohol and Cannabis Use on the Transition From Suicidal Ideation to Attempts in Australian Men
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37151101/
Among women, frequent cannabis use played a moderating role in the association between sexual dysfunction & depression
Frequent Cannabis Use Moderates the Relationship Between Sexual Dysfunction and Depression Among Female German Adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37057580/
In pets, a survey of CBD use finds most pet owners do you see an improvement in their pets condition with mild to no side effects
Assessment of cannabidiol use in pets according to a national survey in the USA
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37203420/
In young stallions, 70 days of CBD did not lower their libido & it decreased aggressive behaviors at semen collection time
24 Effects of Oral Supplementation of Cannabidiol on Young Stallion Behavior
https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/101/Supplement_1/27/7151489
And in older horses, CBD was well accepted, caused no banned substances to be detectable in the blood & had no adverse effects on blood chemistry parameters
85 Evaluation of an Oral Supplemental Cannabidiol Product for Acceptability in Mature Horses
https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/101/Supplement_1/62/7151471
Reviews
A review of using CBD for chronic musculoskeletal disorders
Cannabidiol for musculoskeletal regenerative medicine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37158062/
And a review of how the endocannabinoids & other lipids are involved in exercise-induced muscle damage repair
The Involvement of Lipid Mediators in the Mechanisms of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-9488/3/2/22
In eating disorders, a review of the endocannabinoidome-gut microbiome axis
The emerging role of the endocannabinoidome-gut microbiome axis in eating disorders
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37229916/
A review of using CBD in dentistry
Cannabidiol for Oral Health: A New Promising Therapeutical Tool in Dentistry
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370563008_Cannabidiol_for_Oral_Health_A_New_Promising_Therapeutical_Tool_in_Dentistry
A review of the widespread CB2 receptor in the central nervous system
CB2 receptor in the CNS: From immune and neuronal modulation to behavior
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37164044/
“A growing body of evidence shows CB2R involvement in many processes at the behavioral level, through both immune and neuronal modulations. Recent in vitro and in vivo evidence have highlighted the complex role of CB2R under physiological and inflammatory conditions. Under neuroinflammatory states, its activation seems to protect the brain and its functions, making it a promising target in a wide range of neurological disorders.”
For cancer, a review of the clinical trials & the molecular mechanisms of the cannabinoids
Therapeutic targeting of the tumor microenvironments with cannabinoids and their analogs: Update on clinical trials
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37146933/
And a review of the antitumor mechanisms of CBD
Antitumor mechanism of cannabidiol hidden behind cancer hallmarks
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37164234/
For male fertility disorders, a review of using the fatty acids & endocannabinoids as treatment
PUFAs and Their Derivatives as Emerging Players in Diagnostics and Treatment of Male Fertility Disorders
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242506/
Preclinical
In a rat model of high blood pressure, chronic CBD administration reduced scarring & inflammatory factors
Cannabidiol alleviates right ventricular fibrosis by inhibiting the transforming growth factor β pathway in monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension in rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37187449/
In a mouse model of neuropathic pain, CBD extract with a high content of terpenes outperformed the same extract without terpenes in causing rapid & long-lasting relief of pain hypersensitivity via the CB2 receptor & neuroinflammatory factors of the microglial cells (guardian immune cells of the brain)
Cannabidiol-rich non-psychotropic Cannabis sativa L. oils attenuate peripheral neuropathy symptoms by regulation of CB2-mediated microglial neuroinflammation
https://iris.unimore.it/handle/11380/1304106
#EntourageEffect
In a rat model of periodontitis (chronic inflammation & destruction of the mouth’s soft & hard tissues), CBD significantly inhibited bone loss, downregulated pro-inflammatory mediators & in a human tissue model, it inhibited inflammation
Cannabidiol attenuates periodontal inflammation through inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB pathway
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37143211/
In a rat model of acute & chronic migraines, CBD significantly reduced pain & inflammation levels in the acute model & CBD caused a significant decrease in inflammatory cytokines in the chronic model
Characterization of the biochemical and behavioral effects of cannabidiol: implications for migraine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37138206/
In a tissue & animal model of neuropathic pain, CBD lowered pain & neuroinflammation via FKBP5 (an immunoregulation protein)
Cannabidiol alleviates neuroinflammation and attenuates neuropathic pain via targeting FKBP5
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196785/
A CBD nasal spray for COVID cytokine storms
Aqueous cannabidiol β-cyclodextrin complexed polymeric micelle nasal spray to attenuate in vitro and ex vivo SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37182795/
On using dissolving microneedles with CBD against melanoma
Effervescent cannabidiol solid dispersion-doped dissolving microneedles for boosted melanoma therapy via the "TRPV1-NFATc1-ATF3" pathway and tumor microenvironment engineering
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37198657/
Thesis of the week: how CB2 receptors mediate the locomotor response to cocaine
Sex- and Cell-Specific Roles of the Cannabinoid Type 2 (CB2) Receptor in the Acute and Chronic Locomotor Responses to Cocaine
https://www.proquest.com/openview/ba497cb0c595ce952598af6e0184f11b/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
As always,
“Now, you know that cocaine's for horses now it ain't for men
The doctors said it'll kill me but they didn't say when
Ain't nobody's business but your own”
An evergreen note on reading restricted papers:
First stop for seeing if there’s a free version of a paper, use the Google Scholar Chrome extension (Mac version), Google Scholar itself or try ResearchGate.
Three other helpful browser extensions are: Unpaywall, Open Access Button & PaperPanda
For the infamous backdoor, use Sci-Hub – the pirated papers repository (Chrome extension here). This works better for older paper than the stuff that just came out.
For Twitter users, send a Tweet of the paper’s title with the hashtag #icanhazpdf. It works because people are beautiful(ish).
Finally, email the author. They’re almost always happy to oblige because, thanks to the predatory academic publishing system, they don’t make a dollar off of their papers.
the Headlines & Fav Articles
Minnesota becomes the 23rd adult-use cannabis state & they got the most important thing right: legalized home cultivation
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/minnesota-governor-signs-marijuana-legalization-bill-into-law
The former governor Jesse Ventura played a big role in this. His outspoken story of having to illegally find cannabis medicine for his wife's epilepsy touched hearts & minds across the state & the nation.
The FDA says that its concerns of CBD’s potential reproductive harms helped to drive its refusal to craft CBD regulations
https://cannabiswire.com/2023/05/19/cbds-potential-for-reproductive-harms-among-big-reasons-behind-fdas-punt-on-rules
To be fair, those are legit concerns. I’ve seen enough public health data to say that there seems to be a signal there.
But FDA, that’s your fucking job. Make the tough calls. Protect the public. Not go whining to Congress just because the science is muddy. The science is always muddy.
Just be conservative & keep it out of the food supply while allowing it as a dietary supplement.
You don’t think pregnant moms should accidentally ingest 400 mg of CBD because they had CBD toast, CBD tea, CBD chewing gum & a glass of CBD wine?
Fine, then just leave it in the dietary supplement aisle & allow it to be decently regulated under DSHEA. Sheesh.
I have a child who’s older than your muddling around on this issue. Get it together.
Shane Pennington on why the ‘Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act’ was even worse than he first thought
The number of workers in the US testing positive for cannabis use reached a 25-year high
https://www.wsj.com/articles/marijuana-tests-workplace-accidents-high-7c745453
Thank God. I thought it was just me.
Up to 90% of California’s cannabis may be infected with the destructive hop-latent viroid
https://www.ganjapreneur.com/report-more-than-90-of-california-cannabis-infected-with-hop-latent-viroid
On the controversy over Oregon’s new aspergillus fungi testing rules
https://harrisbricken.com/cannalawblog/oregon-cannabis-testing-and-aspergillus-may-you-live-in-interesting-times
Alice O’Leary Randall launches Project 50: a three-year history project on the history of the medical cannabis movement
https://mailchi.mp/8c0d74f9dc4b/pioneer-launches-new-project
Sweetly, the project is set to culminate on “November 2026, the 50th anniversary of the birth of the medical cannabis movement when Robert C. Randall became America’s first and only legal medical cannabis patient in November 1976.” Support the Patreon here.
Carnival Cruises pledges to continue using drug dogs because everybody thinks you're allowed to use cannabis on their cruises, but you aren’t
https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-cruise-drug-detection-dogs
Hulk Hogan launches cannabis brand
https://www.tmz.com/2023/05/23/hulk-hogan-feels-better-than-ever-decades-wwe-wrestling-injuries-thc-cbd-mushrooms
International
First CBD drug approved in India
https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/pharma/drug-approvals-launches/biophore-its-subsidiary-zenara-pharma-receive-first-approval-for-cannabidiol-in-india/100251790
In Ghana, the Supreme Court reversed a cannabis legalization law, declaring it unconstitutional
In Belgium, the public knowledge & perceptions on medical cannabis
Public Knowledge, Perceptions, and Behavioral Intention Regarding Medical Cannabis in Belgium
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37155939/
In Sweden, an analysis of media constructions between cannabis & organized crime
Media constructions of an illegal drug: the link between cannabis and organized crime in Swedish newspapers
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09687637.2023.2208273
In Barcelona, an analysis of the prices of flower & resin in cannabis social clubs
Prices of flower and resin in cannabis social clubs: Analyses of register data from 220,000 collections
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183527/
Increasing cannabis use among youth in Thailand as they legalize
Trends of cannabis use and related harms before and after legalization for recreational purpose in a developing country in Asia
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37208663/
In Bangladesh, lower levels of self-esteem among cannabis users because of parental rejection
Parental Acceptance-Rejection and Self-Esteem Parental Acceptance-Rejection and Self-Esteem of Marijuana Used Young Adults
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370811109_Parental_Acceptance-Rejection_and_Self-Esteem_Parental_Acceptance-Rejection_and_Self-Esteem_of_Marijuana_Used_Young_Adults
The War on Drugs & Prohibition
Good title: In DC & LA, there was a reduction in cannabis possession arrests but an emergence of arrests for public consumption, especially among Black people
A tale of two cities: racialized arrests following decriminalization and recreational legalization of cannabis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871623001497
The racism of the Drug War continues, metastasizing into new forms…
On how the War on Drug causes the corruption of public officials: Part 1 – New England
California awards $50M+ in cannabis tax-funded community reinvestment grants to repair damage from the War on Drugs
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/california-officials-award-more-than-50-million-in-marijuana-tax-funded-community-reinvestment-grants
With Maryland’s new law, cannabis use by parents can no longer be construed by state officials as child neglect
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/maryland-governor-signs-bill-protecting-parents-who-lawfully-use-marijuana-from-child-neglect-penalties
Think of all the screaming children being separated from their parents that finally forced this law onto the books.
It’s horrible here.
Colorado enacts protections for working professionals to keep them from being denied certifications or licenses
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/colorado-governor-signs-bill-bolstering-marijuana-related-protections-for-working-professionals
Indiana judge rules that the order of cannabis is a reasonable suspicion for a police search
https://www.theindianalawyer.com/articles/odor-of-marijuana-though-similar-to-legal-cannabis-is-enough-for-reasonable-suspicion-coa-affirms
‘Left behind: Dogs often abandoned at illegal California pot grows, filling shelters’
https://eu.courier-journal.com/in-depth/news/investigations/2023/05/31/animal-abuse-abandonment-at-cartel-linked-california-cannabis-grows/70165473007
‘Viral Video of Law Enforcement Shooting Dog on Legal Cannabis Farm in Trinity County Sparks Outrage’
https://cannabislaw.report/viral-video-of-law-enforcement-shooting-dog-on-legal-cannabis-farm-in-trinity-county-sparks-outrage
‘D.C. legalized weed. A marijuana delivery service was indicted anyway’
https://www.cannabisbusinessexecutive.com/2023/05/d-c-legalized-weed-a-marijuana-delivery-service-was-indicted-anyway
An investigation of who is selling delta-8 THC across state lines
Assessing Characteristics and Compliance of Online Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol Product Sellers
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37200462/
A review of the effects of cannabis legalization
The Impact of Recreational Cannabis Legalization on Cannabis Use and Associated Outcomes: A Systematic Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37187466/
“The extant literature revealed mixed findings, including some evidence of negative consequences of legalization (such as increased young adult use, cannabis-related healthcare visits, and impaired driving) and some evidence for minimal impacts (such as little change in adolescent cannabis use rates, substance use rates, and mixed evidence for changes in cannabis-related attitudes).”
Fentanyl
A range of drug policy groups tells Congress to vote no on the HALT Fentanyl Act
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/05/23/more-150-groups-urge-congress-vote-no-halt-fentanyl-act
And Vincent Rado of Drugism on why the bill is a huge step backwards
Texas lawmakers send a bill to the governor that would force medical examiners to classify fentanyl deaths as homicides
https://www.alliednews.com/cnhi/news/texas-passes-bill-that-labels-fentanyl-deaths-as-homicide/article_058217f7-58c4-5096-af57-6e427fadd36f.html
DEA
Compared to 2021, last year the DEA destroyed more cannabis plants (5.7M) but arrested 24% less (5,061)
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-destroyed-5-7-million-marijuana-plants-last-year-but-arrests-continue-to-decline-report-shows
On June 15, The National Institute of Justice will host an event about THC isomers
https://nij.ojp.gov/events/all-not-pot-thats-green-overview-thc-isomers
DEA getting heat after allowing a drug manufacturer to keep making opioids for 4 years after a judge said that their license should be stripped (especially because the company’s former consultant is now a top DEA deputy)
https://apnews.com/article/opioids-fentanyl-drugs-addiction-painkillers-dea-df929764bc0e98da86d7ea198cd96b79
Haha. A DEA agent “wrongfully terminated” for legal CBD use sues the agency for his reinstatement
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-is-being-sued-by-a-former-agent-who-was-wrongfully-terminated-over-cbd-use
Shoes & other feet.
Driving
In a simulated driving performance, one dose of 100 mg CBD & 5 mg THC impaired vehicle control such as speeding & weaving as well as causing alterations to eye behavior
Effect of CannEpil® on simulated driving performance and co-monitoring of ocular activity: A randomised controlled trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37129083/
In Toronto, the passing of the federal cannabis act was associated with non-significant decreases in traffic crashes
Did the cannabis recreational use law affect traffic crash outcomes in Toronto? Building evidence for the adequate number of authorised cannabis stores' thresholds
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37139565/
A review of the top Google hits on cannabis & driving
The Quality, Readability, and Accuracy of the Information on Google About Cannabis and Driving: Quantitative Content Analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10189625/
Business & Law
On Big Cannabis & the rush to superhigh potency by DC Reade
“In my opinion, superpotent pot and concentrates are a hangover from the era of illegality; they're are responsible for vast majority of harms associated with cannabis abuse while having no particular advantages for users other than the illusion of convenience.”
Surprisingly, cannabis consumers may care about ESG
In Illinois, Green Thumb Industry faces 10 union complaints filed with the National Labor Relations Bard
https://www.greenmarketreport.com/green-thumb-industries-facing-10-federal-complaints-from-teamsters
And 2 reviews of cannabis union actions across the country
https://cannabis.net/blog/news/chicagoland-union-gets-cannabis-workers-a-20-raise-so-are-unions-good-or-bad-for-the-marijuana
https://mjbizdaily.com/cannabis-union-wins-signal-more-labor-management-conflicts-ahead
A study of what consumers think about CBD & why they're choosing it
What drives consumer perceptions and adoption of cannabidiol (CBD) products?
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0267257X.2023.2211084
The Cannabis Media Council releases the first industry guidelines for cannabis advertising: Full Spectrum
https://www.cannabismediacouncil.com/full-spectrum-guidelines-2023
Strange canna-business news:
Cannabis software company Akerna faces a shareholder lawsuit to block its merger with a Bitcoin mining company
https://www.law360.com/cannabis/articles/1681184
What is it, 2018 around here?SEC shuts down $60M “Ponzi-like scheme” WeedGenics
https://www.ganjapreneur.com/sec-shuts-down-60m-ponzi-like-scheme-tied-to-non-existent-cannabis-farmCanopy Growth announces a voluntary ban on certain directors & officers to trade shares
https://www.canopygrowth.com/investors/news-releases/canopy-growth-announces-voluntary-application-for-a-management-cease-trade-orderSkunk Magazine saw shareholders remove several board members
https://mjnewsnetwork.com/business/a-majority-of-shareholders-have-terminated-several-board-members-of-skunk-global-media-the-parent-company-of-skunk-magazine
Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
A well-thought out essay on psychedelics & polyamory, sexual abuse & power by Jules Evans
Psychedelics and polyamory: an open marriage
And another strong one of the famed ‘acid casualties’ of the ‘60s & ‘70s
The Psychoactive Research
[This isn’t a deep dive into all of the science of psychedelics & other psychoactives like I do for the cannabinoids. If a newsletter with all that new science would be of interest to your company or organization, reach out to me]
In a survey of Canadian adults, those who used psychedelics reported large decreases in the amount of alcohol, antidepressants & cocaine used but increases for cannabis & tobacco
Changed Substance Use After Psychedelic Experiences Among Individuals in Canada
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11469-023-01085-z
“The most common reasons for substance use reductions were feeling more connected with self (73%; n = 632), nature (55%; n = 476), and others (54.6%; n = 473), as well as feeling less anxious or depressed (59.4%; n = 514).”
A comparison of the acute effects of the Big 3: mescaline, LSD & psilocybin
Comparative acute effects of mescaline, lysergic acid diethylamide, and psilocybin in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study in healthy participants
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37231080/
What happens when you give healthy people IV DMT?
Acute effects of intravenous DMT in a randomized placebo-controlled study in healthy participants
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37221177/
How does ketamine change dopamine in the brain?
Whole-brain mapping reveals the divergent impact of ketamine on the dopamine system
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37090584/
In mice, 5-MeO-DMT promotes neuroplasticity
5-MeO-DMT modifies innate behaviors and promotes structural neural plasticity in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37015972/
The Plant & the History
A study of propolis made by bees using cannabis found it to be antibiotic, anti-oxidative & inhibitory of enzymes of medical importance
Palynological, chemical, antimicrobial, and enzyme inhibition properties of Cannabis sativa L. propolis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00217-023-04284-z
On making cannabis cultures to produce products via a biorefinery process
Valorization of callus biomass from sterile medical hemp cultures for the production of high-value compounds via biorefinery processes
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13399-023-04248-z
Growing & Farming
On the effects of dynamic spectrum lighting
Dynamic spectrum lighting impact on plant morphology and cannabinoid profile of medical and recreational cannabis – A novel leapfrog strategy towards shaping the future of horticulture lighting
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0926669023005642
On using rhizobacteria & microbial growth broth to improve plant growth
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) with Microbial Growth Broth Improve Biomass and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation of Cannabis sativa L
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37130078/
Copper sulphate as an antifungal for cannabis plants
Copper sulphate inhibits Penicillium olsonii growth and conidiogenesis on Cannabis sativa
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42161-023-01374-5
In Florida, the effect of planting dates on yield
Temporal cannabinoids profile and biomass yield in cannabigerol dominant industrial hemp under different planting dates in southern Florida
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/agg2.20376
Using genomics to clarify cannabis classification
Genomics-based taxonomy to clarify cannabis classification
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37163765/
From Tanzania, the profiling of 11 cannabis cultivars
Chemical profiling of Cannabis sativa from eleven Tanzanian regions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37215917/
A review of the pests that pierce & suck on hemp plants
Assessing the impact of piercing-sucking pests on greenhouse-grown industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37156240/
In Missouri, the first charcoal rot on hemp
First Report of Charcoal Rot Caused by Macrophomina phaseolina on Hemp ( Cannabis sativa) in Missouri
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37157100/
Fermentation to turn hemp into silage for animal feed
Fermentation Quality and Chemical Composition of Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Silage Inoculated with Bacterial Starter Cultures—A Pilot Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/13/5/1371
On using AI to predict hemp yield
Identification of Characteristic Parameters in Seed Yielding of Selected Varieties of Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Using Artificial Intelligence Methods
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/13/5/1097
A test of cutting performance for a bionic hemp blade
Dynamic Cutting Performance Test and Parameter Optimization of Longicorn Bionic Blade for Industrial Hemp Harvester
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/13/5/1074
This sounds like the superhero weapon I should have.
Human nutrition
How hemp seed may be an allergen source similar to hazelnut
Hemp seed: An allergen source with potential cross-reactivity to hazelnut
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37254358/
Using CBD as a transparent edible coating for preserving the shelf life of your strawberries
Influence of a Transparent and Edible Coating of Encapsulated Cannabidiol Nanoparticles on the Quality and Shelf Life of Strawberries
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37140618/
Industrial Use
In the large yellow croaker fish, CBD supplementation lowered inflammatory gene activation in the liver & improved antioxidation, growth performance & appetite
Effects of cannabidiol on growth performance, appetite, antioxidant capacity and liver inflammatory gene expression of juvenile large yellow croaker (Larmichthys crocea) fed diets with high soybean oil level
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0044848623004325
On making biogas from hemp
Production of biogas from the industrial hemp variety, Tiborszállási
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352186423001815
On using graphite flakes from hemp as connections for lithium batteries
Nitrogen-rich Graphite Flake from Hemp as Anode Material for High Performance Lithium-ion Batteries
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37204868/
CANNABINOID SCIENCE
On cannabicitran, a common cannabinoid found in purified CBD extracts & why it appears to be racemic (equal amounts of left-handed & right-handed molecules)
Cannabicitran: Its unexpected racemic nature and potential origins
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37142400/
This is a bit of a mystery because enzymes tend to produce just molecules of one hand or the other. So where is this cannabicitran coming from?
A review of the fatty acid binding protein family that moves endocannabinoids around
The Multifunctional Family of Mammalian Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37207357/
The wide wonders of the cannabinoids
Cannabinoids as multifaceted compounds
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196772/
Clinical Use
In a study of 3000+ cases, medical cannabis users were reported improvements in health-related quality of life
Assessment of Medical Cannabis and Health-Related Quality of Life
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37159196/
Your hair endocannabinoid levels predict your fear conditioning & your saliva endocannabinoid levels predict your subjective stress levels
Hair endocannabinoids predict physiological fear conditioning and salivary endocannabinoids predict subjective stress reactivity in humans
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37216738/
A review of 26 cannabis studies where the participants dosed themselves (ad libitum)
Cannabis self-administration in the human laboratory: a scoping review of ad libitum studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37157001/
Most older Canadians learn their medical cannabis information from their cannabis retailers (despite regulations to the contrary)
The Information-Seeking Behavior and Unmet Knowledge Needs of Older Medicinal Cannabis Consumers in Canada: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37147415/
When parents who use cannabis talk to their kids about cannabis, they say about what you would expect them to say…
Examining How Regular Users of Marijuana Communicate with Their Children About Marijuana Use: Lessons Learned from Facebook and Instagram Recruitment
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10826-023-02593-1
“Results indicated that most caregivers conveyed largely positive messages about marijuana to their children, including marijuana as medicine, natural, and conditionally acceptable to use. Negative messages included caregivers instructing their teen not to use marijuana and that marijuana use is bad and/or unhealthy for children/teens. The majority of caregivers disclosed their own use to their children, and generally did not endorse barriers to communication.”
An AI to extract cannabis use status from narrative clinical notes
Developing and validating a natural language processing algorithm to extract preoperative cannabis use status documentation from unstructured narrative clinical notes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37178155/
Adolescents
In teens using cannabis, they had 2-4x greater odds of depression, suicidal ideation, slower thoughts, difficulty concentrating, truancy, low grade point average, arrest, fighting & aggression
Nondisordered Cannabis Use Among US Adolescents
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37133862/
In young males, the association between cannabis use disorder & schizophrenia is stronger than in young females
Association between cannabis use disorder and schizophrenia stronger in young males than in females
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37140715/
In adolescents, is it the symptoms of anxiety that cause the association between cannabis use frequency & psychotic-like experiences?
Do Anxiety Symptoms Mediate the Association Between Cannabis Use Frequency and Psychotic-Like Experiences in Emerging Adult Undergraduates?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37194263/
Among Spanish adolescents, public health data on cannabis as a gateway substance to other addictions
Testing the cannabis gateway hypothesis in a national sample of Spanish adolescents
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37224582/
In young adults, wake-and-bake cannabis use potentially a useful marker of high-risk cannabis use
"Wake-and-bake" cannabis use: Predictors and cannabis-related outcomes of use shortly after waking
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37236059/
A review on the link between ADHD & cannabis use disorder in adolescents
Exploring the Link Between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Cannabis Use Disorders: A Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37147797/
In young adults, the relationship between negative affect, negative emotion differentiation & cannabis
Daily-level relationships between negative affect, negative emotion differentiation, and cannabis behaviors among a high-risk sample of young adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37211055/
“NED [negative emotion differentiation] x NA [negative affect] interaction was not significant for likelihood of cannabis use, hours high, or negative consequences. Post-hoc descriptive analyses suggest notable person-specific heterogeneity in these findings. Individuals with higher ability to differentiate between negative emotions reported higher coping motives and craving when experiencing higher NA. However, these associations were variable for individuals within the sample. It may be that high NED individuals crave and purposefully use cannabis to reduce NA states.”
Where are teens vaping & smoking cannabis?
In what settings and social contexts do young adults vape or smoke cannabis? Findings from a web-based diary pilot study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37210830/
Ingestion Methods & Safety
While quite variable, heavy users of cannabis tended to have higher levels of THC bioavailability
Variable Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics After Cannabis Smoking in Regular Users
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37199428/
Analyzing the smoke from pre-rolled joints
Characterization of aerosols from hemp-derived pre-roll joints
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37159420/
In rodents, GMP toxicity studies of EU-certified cannabis
Acute Toxicity and Pharmacokinetic Profile of an EU-GMP-Certified Cannabis sativa L. in Rodents
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/16/5/694
The Brain & its Diseases
In children with treatment-resistant epilepsy, CBD was a good add-on that reduced seizure in half the patients & caused three of them to become seizure free
Cannabidiol in children with treatment-resistant epilepsy with myoclonic-atonic seizures
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37182500/
And in adults with treatment-resistant epilepsy, CBD was a helpful add-on that decreased seizures & improved quality of life
Cannabidiol as an adjuvant treatment in adults with drug-resistant focal epilepsy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196452/
In a chart review of children with rare epilepsies, CBD worked well without the usual treatment of clobazam
Retrospective Chart Review Study of Use of Cannabidiol (CBD) Independent of Concomitant Clobazam Use in Patients with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome or Dravet Syndrome
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1059131123001255
Using the amides of hemp seeds against Alzheimer's disease
UHPLC-Orbitrap-Fusion-TMS-Based Metabolomics Study of Phenylpropionamides in the Seed of Cannabis sativa L. against Alzheimer's Disease
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37072341/
In Alzheimer's disease, a review of using phytocannabinoids as neuroprotectants
Phytocannabinoids as Potential Multitargeting Neuroprotectants in Alzheimer's Disease
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37132109/
And designing FAAH inhibitors to fight Alzheimer's
QSAR and Molecular Docking-Based Design of Novel Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Inhibitors as Anti-Alzheimer Agents
https://www.eurchembull.com/uploads/paper/3259f270fe23c4bdabfc522792a36e6f.pdf
And preclinical research on using FAAH inhibitors for frontotemporal dementia
Preclinical investigation in FAAH inhibition as a neuroprotective therapy for frontotemporal dementia using TDP-43 transgenic male mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37149645/
In children, a review on the potential of using cannabinoids for drug-resistant epilepsy, autism & spasticity
The use of cannabinoid compounds in therapy in children - future or threat?
https://apcz.umk.pl/JEHS/article/view/43539
In different rodent models of epilepsy, positive effects in one type from a synthetic cannabinoid that inhibited calcium channels
MEPIRAPIM-derived synthetic cannabinoids inhibit T-type calcium channels with divergent effects on seizures in rodent models of epilepsy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37082241/
In fruit flies, cannabis had little effect on their neural function but CBD displayed significant neuroprotective properties following a traumatic injury
The Influence of Cannabinoids on Drosophila Behaviors, Longevity, and Traumatic Injury Responses of the Adult Nervous System
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37158809/
In the support cells of the smell neurons, they expressed key genes of the endocannabinoid system & modulated the number & maturation of oligodendrocytes (cells that give the insulating myelin sheath to neurons)
Activation of cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) modulates oligodendroglial process branching complexity in rat hippocampal cultures stimulated by olfactory ensheathing glia-conditioned medium
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37138770/
In brain cells, a full spectrum extract called Epifractan (EPI) protected from neurotoxicity
Neuroprotective Effect of a Pharmaceutical Extract of Cannabis with High Content on CBD Against Rotenone in Primary Cerebellar Granule Cell Cultures and the Relevance of Formulations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37155642/
Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders
In patients with recent onset psychosis, one month of 600 milligrams of CBD significantly increased functional connectivity in the default mode network
The impact of cannabidiol treatment on resting state functional connectivity, prefrontal metabolite levels and reward processing in recent-onset patients with a psychotic disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37207437/
In 10 people with opioid use disorder, one dose of 600 milligrams of isolated CBD significantly reduced cue-induced craving as well as attentional bias towards drug related cues but no effects on the other outcomes examined
Impact of cannabidiol on reward- and stress-related neurocognitive processes among individuals with opioid use disorder: A pilot, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37065899/
“CBD may have promise as an adjunct to MOUD treatment by attenuating the brain response to drug-related cues, which, in turn, may reduce the risk of relapse and overdoses.”
In people with heroin dependence, the use of high-potency cannabis was not associated with more severe health outcomes
Different Tokes for Different Folks: Use of Cannabis Products Among a Longitudinal Cohort of People with Heroin Dependence
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10184640/
On the genetic relationship between cannabis use, schizophrenia & bipolar disorder
The relationship between cannabis use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder: a genetically informed study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37208114/
Using multicenter data, people who started using cannabis with their friends ‘to feel better’ were more likely to progress to heavy use & develop a psychotic disorder
The association between reasons for first using cannabis, later pattern of use, and risk of first-episode psychosis: the EU-GEI case-control study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37129249/
In those with childhood adversity, harmful patterns of cannabis use mediated the association with later psychosis
Cannabis use as a potential mediator between childhood adversity and first-episode psychosis: results from the EU-GEI case–control study
https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/96BA1B6AE18A55706D897BA7D1B25A18/S0033291723000995a.pdf/cannabis_use_as_a_potential_mediator_between_childhood_adversity_and_firstepisode_psychosis_results_from_the_eugei_casecontrol_study.pdf
In people with clinical high risk of psychosis, their cannabis use had no significant association to their transition to psychosis, the persistence of symptoms or functional outcomes
Influence of cannabis use on incidence of psychosis in people at clinical high risk
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37070555/
In people with first episode psychosis, current cannabis use was associated with increased positive symptoms & a younger age of first smoking cannabis altered the symptom progression over a year, with effects from the individual’s genetic variants of the endocannabinoid system
Exploration of cannabis use and polygenic risk scores on the psychotic symptom progression of a FEP cohort
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37178502/
On psychosis, a review of 32 reviews & meta-analyses, earlier & stronger use by teens is linked to adverse outcomes & childhood trauma may play a role genetically
A systematic evidence map of the association between cannabis use and psychosis-related outcomes across the psychosis continuum: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
https://psyarxiv.com/by2vu/
A review of cannabinoids & psychosis
Cannabis, cannabinoids and psychosis: a balanced view
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37159370/
The Brazilian Association of Psychiatry on why it's against cannabinoids in psychiatry
Cannabis and its dilemmas in psychiatry
https://sevenpublicacoes.com.br/index.php/editora/article/view/1258
For peer recovery coaches who support substance use disorders, surveys of their ideas on cannabis in recovery
“It Depends on What You Consider Recovery”: Perceptions of Client Cannabis Use Among Peer Recovery Coaches
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/00220426231176446
A review of using CBD to treat the sleep disturbances of alcohol use disorder
Cannabidiol as a candidate pharmacotherapy for sleep disturbance in alcohol use disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37139966/
On CBD for psychiatric disorders
The promise of the therapeutic use of cannabidiol for psychiatric disorders
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37166111/
In a mouse model of morphine withdrawal, CBD cause anti-anxiety effects via a serotonin receptor
Cannabidiol attenuates the expression of conditioned place aversion induced by naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal through the activation of 5-HT1A receptors
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37209879/
On the effects of CBD in the amygdala (brain region associated with fight or flight, anxiety & PTSD)
Cannabidiol Differentially Modulates Synaptic Release and Cellular Excitability in Amygdala Subnuclei
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37163725/
In mice using cocaine, the CB1 receptors in the mesolimbic part of the brain mediated an escalated intake & heightened relapse susceptibility
Role of mesolimbic cannabinoid receptor 1 in stress-driven increases in cocaine self-administration in male rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37188846/
And evidence that stress may increase cocaine intake via the endocannabinoids
Novel evidence for endocannabinoid-mediated enhancement of cocaine intake in response to stress
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37188847/
In mice, activating the CB1 receptor altered their circadian rhythm of the males but not the females
A Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Agonist Reduces Light-induced Phase Delays in Male But Not Female Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37190758/
The CBD analogs that cause anti-anxiety, antidepressant & antipsychotic effects in mice
Behavioral effects induced by the cannabidiol analogs HU-502 and HU-556
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37171460/
In a rat model of depression, the antidepressants escitalopram or venlafaxine do not work via blocking of the CB1 receptor
The chronic pharmacological antagonism of the CB1 receptor is not involved in the behavioral effects of antidepressants administered in mice submitted to chronic unpredictable stress
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37211222/
Harms & Cannabis Use Disorder
A panic attack after a THC-O acetate vape
A case of panic attack developing after THC-O acetate inhalation using an e-cigarette device
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37143389/
A case report of cannabis laced with fentanyl causing bleeding into the alveoli of the lungs
A Rare Case of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Caused by Fentanyl-Laced Marijuana
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/154959/20230504-7612-nla0u7.pdf
In cannabis dependent individuals, they had more disorganized cognition networks
Altered neural associations with cognitive and emotional functions in cannabis dependence
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37143177/
In people of cannabis use disorder, gabapentin, CBD, FAAH inhibitors & different types of psychotherapy were shown to be effective
Modern methods of treating marijuana addiction (cannabis use disorders) and its influence on health
https://apcz.umk.pl/JEHS/article/view/43607
The genetic areas associated with cannabis use disorder
Pleiotropic loci for cannabis use disorder severity in multi-ancestry high-risk populations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37061172/
“The gene ontology terms associated with the pleiotropic genes were predominately related to synaptic functions and neurodevelopment. Notable pathways included Wnt/β-catenin signaling, lipoprotein assembly, response to UV radiation, and components of the complement system. The pleiotropic genes were the most significantly differentially expressed in frontal cortex and coronary artery, up-regulated in adipose tissue, and down-regulated in testis, prostate, and ovary. They were significantly up-regulated in most brain tissues but were down-regulated in the cerebellum and hypothalamus.”
In adults with cannabis use disorder, a telehealth intervention promoting cannabis-free activities
Pilot trial of a telehealth-delivered behavioral economic intervention promoting cannabis-free activities among adults with cannabis use disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37224772/
For cannabis use disorder, what physicians consider when implementing motivational enhancement therapy as a treatment
Provider Intentions to Implement Cannabis Use Intervention in First Episode Psychosis Treatment
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37162662/
A survey to confirm the reproducibility of using the DSM-5 for cannabis use disorder
Dimensionality and differential functioning of DSM-5 cannabis use disorder criteria in an online sample of adults with frequent cannabis use
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37224773/
A review of the addiction potential of cannabinoids for addiction medicine physicians
Addiction Medicine Physicians and Medicinal Cannabinoids
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37133830/
Synthetic Cannabinoids
In Germany, a review of the deaths from synthetic cannabinoids
"Spice"-related deaths in and around Munich, Germany: A retrospective look at the role of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in our post-mortem cases over a seven-year period (2014-2020)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37072496/
A review of what's known about how the synthetic cannabinoids work & move through the body
Narrative Review of the Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicities of Illicit Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37190813/
In those with synthetic cannabinoid use disorder, they found no significant association with their genetic variants for CB1, FAAH or MGL
Assessment of the effects of CNR1, FAAH and MGLL gene variations on the synthetic cannabinoid use disorder
https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/tjb-2022-0256/html
An analysis of two widespread synthetic cannabinoids
Focusing on the 5F-MDMB-PICA, 4F-MDMB-BICA synthetic cannabinoids and their primary metabolites in analytical and pharmacological aspects
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37182749/
Pain, Inflammation & Surgeries
In humans with chronic pain, dronabinol (pharmaceutical THC) showed minimal benefit from being combined with hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Within-subject, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled evaluation of combining the cannabinoid dronabinol and the opioid hydromorphone in adults with chronic pain
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37202479/
Interviews of chronic pain patients on how medical cannabis helps with reduced pain intensity, anxiety, dependency on pain medicines & psychiatric medications as well as improvements in physical functioning, sleep quality & mood
Perceived Effectiveness of Medical Cannabis Among Adults with Chronic Pain: Findings from Interview Data in a Three-Month Pilot Study
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/149
“Common challenges included difficulty finding a suitable product or dose, experiencing side effects such as ‘undesired high’, ‘stomach issues’, and a limited ‘threshold of pain’ treatable by the product.”
In traumatic injury patients, cannabis use not associated with changes in-hospital mortality or morbidity & users had a slight decrease of pulmonary embolisms
Impact of cannabis on outcome in patients following traumatic injury
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0020138323004540
In patients with a total knee replacement, tobacco & cannabis use before the operation had a synergetic association for increased infection risk
Tobacco and Cannabis Use Have a Synergistic Association on Infection Risk Following Total Knee Arthroplasty
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37142070/
A review of the anti-inflammatory effects of the cannabinoids
Anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids
https://www.scielo.br/j/brjp/a/kJFVFMnvSMw9K5BpymRfNyC/?lang=en
A social ecological framework around using medical cannabis for chronic pain
Using Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain: A Social-Ecological Framework
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37155681/
In a mouse model of mechanical spinal cord pain, activating the GPR55 receptor (which may one day be known as CB3) lowered the inflammatory response, white blood infiltration & pain hypersensitivity
GPR55 contributes to neutrophil recruitment and mechanical pain induction after spinal cord compression in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36898418/
A new drug that lowers pain via the endocannabinoid system in the periaqueductal grey (PAG) nociception (pain-sensing) area of the brain
Transcriptomic signature, bioactivity and safety of a non-hepatoxic analgesic generating AM404 in the mid-brain PAG region
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37205420/
Immune System & Microbials
A review of the synthetic pathways to produce antibiotic cannabinoids
Synthetic Pathways to Not Psychotropic Phytocannabinoids as Promising Molecules to Develop Novel Antibiotics: A Systematic Review
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202305.1078/v1
In the mast cells (releasers of histamine), a review of how the endocannabinoids modulate their signals & allergic reactions
Endocannabinoid modulation of allergic responses: Focus on the control of FcεRI-mediated mast cell activation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37236045/
Testing the antibiotic properties of a CBG varnish for surgical meshes
Polyglactin 910 Meshes Coated with Sustained-Release Cannabigerol Varnish Inhibit Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Formation and Macrophage Cytokine Secretion: An In Vitro Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242528/
Female-specific, Reproduction & Hormones
A review on women's specific positive & negative consequences of cannabis use
Women are taking the hit: Examining the unique consequences of cannabis use across the female lifespan
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37217080/
An analysis finds that testing mothers & new babies for THC at the time of the birth is not predictive for later neonatal outcomes & that we shouldn’t bother
Maternal and infant cannabis testing and associated birth outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37166490/
Over the last 22 years of drug tests among children, there's been a shift of drug use by mothers from opiates, benzodiazepines & cocaine to cannabinoids and/or amphetamines
Trends in Drug Tests among Children: A 22-Year Retrospective Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218917/
On the hair levels of endocannabinoids in new mothers & babies & the relationship to childhood maltreatment
Longitudinal course of endocannabinoids and N-acylethanolamines in hair of mothers and their children in the first year postpartum: investigating the relevance of maternal childhood maltreatment experiences
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37198936/
In pregnant mothers, a survey finds an association between preconception cannabis use & depression/anxiety during the pregnancy
The association between preconception cannabis use and depression and anxiety during pregnancy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196406/
A review on the effects of cannabis smoking by mothers on their babies finds the effects to be non-conclusive & often contradictory
Implications and quantifications of marijuana use regarding neonatal outcomes
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361091740_Implications_and_quantifications_of_marijuana_use_regarding_neonatal_outcomes
A small essay on cannabis use during pregnancy & lactation
A mini-review of cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation
https://ulusmedj.com/index.php/pub/article/view/4
In people with thyrotoxicosis (high levels of the hormone thyroid), cannabis use was associated increased odds of orbitopathy (an autoimmune condition of bulging eyes)
Green Smoke, Red Flag: Cannabis and the Risk of Orbitopathy and Dermopathy in Thyrotoxicosis
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/original_article/pdf/155083/20230516-23943-10ml26p.pdf
For endometriosis, using the Amazonian folk medicine treatment of β-caryophyllene (a common cannabis terpene) with copaiba oil in a nano-emulsion
Development, Characterization and Evidence of Anti-Endometriotic Activity of Phytocannabinoid-Rich Nanoemulsions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196880/
The Heart
In people with cancer using cannabis, they had higher rates of arrhythmias that nonusers but this rarely led to invasive treatments
The Prevalence of Cannabis-related Arrhythmias in Patients with Cancer: Real-world Data Evidence of Patient-reported Outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37129130/
Public health data…
links cannabis use to an increased risk of deep venous thrombosis & pulmonary embolism
C-56 | Marijuana Use Associated With Increased Risk of Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: A Nationwide Study
https://www.jscai.org/article/S2772-9303(23)00280-6/fulltext
And links cannabis use to an increased risk of peripheral artery disease but no increased risk of intervention or mortality
C-31 | Impact of Marijuana Use on Prevalence and Interventions in Peripheral Artery Disease
https://www.jscai.org/article/S2772-9303(23)00252-1/fulltext
And links cannabis used to an increased risk for heart attacks, the need for coronary intervention & mortality
A-27 | Marijuana Use Associated With Increased Risk of Coronary Artery Disease and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, A Nationwide Study
https://www.jscai.org/article/S2772-9303(23)00126-6/fulltext
A review & case report of synthetic cannabinoids leading to a heart attack
Synthetic Cannabinoids and ST-Elevated Myocardial Infarction: A Case Report and Literature Review
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/154782/20230519-24730-1s9jvy0.pdf
In a rat model of heart attacks, 21 days of β-caryophyllene (a common cannabis terpene) reversed changes in the electrocardiogram, lessened cardiac diagnostic markers & protected the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
Protective effects of β-caryophyllene on mitochondrial damage and cardiac hypertrophy pathways in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarcted rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37207967/
In a rat model of chronic unpredictable stress, inhibiting the FAAH enzyme caused antidepressant effects, protected the heart cells & reduced inflammatory cytokines in the heart’s left ventricle with some gender differences
URB597 attenuates stress-induced ventricular structural remodeling by modulating cytokines, NF-kB and JAK2/STAT3 pathways in female and male rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37201202/
The Liver
In mice, MAGL (the enzyme that synthesizes 2-AG) promoted liver regeneration via reprogramming of the liver cells & immune cells
Monoacylglycerol lipase reprograms hepatocytes and macrophages to promote liver regeneration
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589555923001258
The Lungs
In a mouse model of smoking cannabis, the smoke decreased the white blood cells of the alveoli but increased them in the regions between the alveoli, with differences depending on the ratio of THC to CBD
Differential inflammatory profile in the lungs of mice exposed to cannabis smoke with varying THC:CBD ratio
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37179517/
The Skin
On using CBD oil against the bacteria of acne
Antibacterial Effect of Cannabidiol Oil against Propionibacterium Acnes, Staphylococcus Aureus, Staphylococcus Epidermidis and Level of Toxicity against Artemia Salina
https://journalspress.com/LJMHR_Volume23/Antibacterial-Effect-of-Cannabidiol-Oil-Against-Propionibacterium-Acnes-Staphylococcus-Aureus-Staphylococcus-Epidermidis-and-level-of-Toxicity-against-Artemia-Salina.pdf
The Guts, the Microbiome & Oral Health
In diabetic patients who had a heart attack, those classified as having cannabis use disorder had less hypertension & renal failure
Effects of cannabis on in-patient diabetic patients with prior revascularized (PCI and/or CABG) myocardial infarction and health care service utilization
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10113086/
In those with bariatric surgery, using cannabis after the surgery was associated with poorer weight loss outcomes
Post-surgical cannabis use is associated with weight loss among individuals up to 4 years after bariatric surgery
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37202524/
In a rat model of diabetes with neuropathic pain, CBD combined additively with tramadol for pain reduction
Pharmacological Interaction Between Cannabidiol and Tramadol on Experimental Diabetic Neuropathic Pain: An Isobolographic Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37205869/
In Crohn's disease, the endocannabinoid profiles may be used as a biomarker for disease flare-ups
Altered mucosal and plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids, oxylipins, and endocannabinoids profiles in Crohn's disease
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37149256/
For inflammatory bowel diseases, a review of the benefits & risks of cannabis use
Inflammatory bowel disease and cannabis: key counseling strategies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37144523/
In fat cells, high doses of CBD inhibited their differentiation into mature fat cells
Cannabidiol treatment of proliferating 3T3-L1 preadipocytes affects mature cell size and expression of acyltransferases involved in lipid droplet synthesis
https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-2689027/v1/0680be5d-f909-4141-888a-ab12e8292403.pdf?c=1683926118
In a rat model of pulpitis (inflammation of the pulp of your inner teeth), β-caryophyllene but not CBD produced a significant reduction in orofacial sensitivity & inflammatory markers
Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoid Modulation of Nociception and Inflammation Associated with a Rat Model of Pulpitis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37238715/
In a mouse model of colitis, the endocannabinoids of the guts helped to repair the depletion of the gut microbiota & gut immune system
Altered endocannabinoidome bioactive lipid levels accompany reduced DNBS-induced colonic inflammation in germ-free mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37189092/
In a rat model of gut surgery, it caused significant changes in the gut’s endocannabinoidome & microbiome
Hypoabsorptive surgeries cause limb-dependent changes in the gut endocannabinoidome and microbiome in association with beneficial metabolic effects
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37142736/
The Genitourinary System
In rats with the urinary blockage, activating the CB2 receptor lessened scarring, oxidative stress & cell death
Role of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Activation in Renal Fibrosis Induced by Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction in Rats
http://rbmb.net/files/site1/user_files_223b32/mahmoudeltohamy-A-10-1194-1-35c5ddf.pdf
Cancer & Chemotherapy
In breast cancer cells, cannabis modulated their metabolic pathways
Cannabis sativa L. modulates altered metabolic pathways involved in key metabolisms in human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells: A metabolomics study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37215911/
In rare heritable endocrine tumors, they contained most of the endocannabinoid machinery & treatment with anandamide decreased their proliferation
The involvement of endocannabinoid system in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
https://www.endocrine-abstracts.org/ea/0090/ea0090p112
In a type of adrenal cancer, using endocannabinoids as a prognostic biomarker
Endocannabinoids in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. A new prognostic biomarker?
https://www.endocrine-abstracts.org/ea/0090/ea0090ep25
On the interactions between the CB2 receptor & the lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5 (LPA5) with a focus on cancer cells
Crosstalk between cannabinoid receptor 2 and lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37187093/
Cool Chemistry
A review of drug discovery for allosteric modulation of the endocannabinoid system
Targeting the endocannabinoid system: Structural determinants and molecular mechanism of allosteric modulation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37172889/
A review of the structure-function relationships of the cannabinoid agonists for human ailments
Impact of Cannabinoid Receptors in the Design of Therapeutic Agents against Human Ailments
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37132103/
Visualizing the effects of binding to opioid & cannabinoid receptors using antibodies
In situ visualization of opioid and cannabinoid drug effects using phosphosite-specific GPCR antibodies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37061609/
How an endocannabinoid analog activates the CB1 receptor
Structural basis for activation of CB1 by an endocannabinoid analog
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37160876/
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For this week’s music, from the legendary guitarist who helped transform rhythm & blues into rock & roll, ‘Presenting Mickey Baker’.
When I first found this album last year, it transfixed me. I listened to it for a week straight. Enjoy.
Thanks for sharing my dispatch. I must say, your Substack has definitely inspired me + motivated me over the last few months. The sheer amount of info you fit into each newsletter is astounding and a true service for cannabis nerds everywhere :) peace