420 with CNW — Genetics Study Explains Why Some Marijuana Users Become Addicted

A new genetic study is offering fresh insight into why some people can use cannabis without becoming dependent while others go on to develop cannabis use disorder. The research suggests that occasional cannabis use and problematic addiction are connected to separate biological pathways in the brain rather than representing different stages of the same process.

The study, backed by the Yale Center for the Science of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (YC-SCAN2), combined genome-wide genetic data with advanced brain imaging to explore the biological differences between CUD and cannabis use.

Scientists analyzed thousands of MRI-based brain measurements, known as imaging-derived phenotypes, which capture details about brain structure and activity. They then examined whether these characteristics shared genetic links with either marijuana use or CUD. Their analysis revealed clear differences between the two.

According to the researchers, genetic factors associated with marijuana use were primarily connected to the brain’s default mode network. This network is most active during self-reflection, daydreaming, and internally focused thinking.

The study also identified a genetic relationship involving communication between the default mode network and the central executive network, which plays a key role in planning, decision-making, and higher-level thinking.

In contrast, CUD showed genetic associations with a different set of brain systems. These included connections between the default mode network and the salience network, which helps the brain identify important information and shift attention between internal thoughts and the outside world. Researchers also found links to the microstructure of white matter, the network of fibers responsible for transmitting information across different brain regions.

Senior study author Renato Polimanti said the findings reinforce the idea that marijuana use and CUD should not be viewed as identical conditions. Instead, the evidence points to separate neurological mechanisms that influence whether a person progresses from casual use to addiction. He explained that the transition represents a meaningful biological change rather than simply an increase in consumption.

The findings come as cannabis laws continue to evolve in many countries and usage rates increase worldwide. Researchers believe the work could influence how healthcare professionals identify people at greater risk of developing CUD. It may also help shape future prevention strategies, treatment approaches, and scientific studies focused on cannabis-related health outcomes.

Polimanti emphasized that distinguishing the biological basis of addiction from the biology of marijuana use is becoming increasingly important as access expands. Understanding these differences, he said, could improve efforts to develop more targeted interventions and avoid treating all cannabis users as though they face the same level of risk.

Awareness about marijuana is shifting away from the “reefer madness” stereotype of the past several decades toward a perspective in which scientific inquiry is bridging knowledge gaps, and licensed retailers like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) are gradually loosening the grip that black-market operators had on cannabis sales.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — California Judge Signals Lawmakers May Not Need Voter Approval to Change Marijuana Regulations

A California judge has indicated that state lawmakers may have the authority to revise parts of the voter-approved marijuana legalization measure without asking voters to approve every legislative update. The preliminary opinion was issued last Thursday by San Francisco Superior Court Judge Harold Kahn during an ongoing legal dispute over changes to cannabis tax policy.

The case was filed by youth advocacy organizations challenging legislation approved by the California Legislature and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom last year. The lawsuit seeks to overturn a reduction in the state’s cannabis retail excise tax, arguing that lawmakers exceeded their constitutional authority when they altered provisions tied to the 2016 legalization initiative.

According to state figures, licensed cannabis retailers recorded less than $4 billion in sales last year, a decline from the $4.2 billion reported in 2024. The total number of products sold also fell, reflecting weaker demand across the regulated market.

Industry representatives had warned that higher taxes could further reduce legal sales. On July 1, 2025, the cannabis excise tax automatically increased from 15 to 19 percent under a framework established in 2022 after lawmakers eliminated the cultivation tax. That increase was later reversed when Newsom signed legislation restoring the excise tax to 15% through at least 2028.

While cannabis businesses welcomed the lower rate, critics argued that the decision reduced funding for programs supported by marijuana tax revenue. Organizations including Youth Transforming Justice and the East Bay Asian Youth Center filed suit in February against the California Department of Cannabis Control and other state officials. They also challenged Senate Bill 141, which directs money from the Cannabis Tax Fund toward enforcement efforts targeting illegal marijuana operations.

The plaintiffs contend that both laws violate the California Constitution. They argue that the Legislature cannot modify a voter-approved initiative unless the measure specifically authorizes those changes or voters approve them through another statewide election. According to the lawsuit, reducing cannabis taxes weakens the financial support voters intended for social and environmental initiatives.

During the hearing, Judge Kahn signaled that the legislative changes appear likely to comply with constitutional requirements. However, attorney Margaret Prinzing, representing the advocacy groups, requested additional time to present arguments challenging the legality of the tax reduction. The judge granted that request, although no schedule for further legal briefs has been announced.

Meanwhile, recent revenue data highlights the financial pressures facing the legal cannabis market. Despite the temporary tax increase, California collected about $1.05 billion in marijuana tax revenue during 2025, slightly below the $1.07 billion generated in 2024. The figures suggest that higher tax rates did not produce greater overall revenue as legal sales continued to soften.

Marijuana companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) that have retail outlets in California will wait to see the final ruling in this case that could impact the cannabis policies of the state.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Massachusetts Officials to Start Conducting Checks on THC Potency Inflation

Massachusetts cannabis regulators are planning to test whether THC levels listed on marijuana products truly reflect what consumers are buying, following a commitment made late last year to tighten oversight of the industry.

The state’s Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) said it will begin auditing cannabis items sold in Massachusetts and take enforcement measures if laboratory findings differ significantly from the potency claims printed on packaging.

Travis Ahern, the CCC Executive Director, noted that ensuring marijuana products are correctly labeled supports the agency’s responsibility to provide residents with safe, fair, and reliable access to the legal cannabis market.

Under the commission’s guidelines, THC content shown on packaging must fall between 75% and 125% of the amount listed on the label while still meeting compliance standards. For instance, a product advertised as containing 15% THC would be considered compliant if testing shows potency between 11.25% and 18.75%. However, products with results falling far outside those limits could face regulatory consequences.

The newly formed commission also has authority to refer cases involving inaccurate labeling to the Massachusetts attorney general’s office for possible legal review.

Ahern stated that the initiative aims to strengthen public understanding while recognizing that THC levels can naturally fluctuate, especially in cannabis flower. He noted that potency may decline over time depending on storage conditions and other variables that influence product composition.

According to the CCC, officials developed the policy after reviewing regulations in other states, conducting research, and evaluating data gathered from Massachusetts’ 11 independent cannabis testing laboratories. The commission, however, has not identified which facilities will carry out the verification testing or whether any of the current commercial labs will be selected.

The auditing effort is one piece of a broader campaign to improve testing standards across the cannabis sector. Regulators have recently revised testing procedures, assembled a task force to evaluate laboratory operations, and introduced a requirement that testing facilities upload digital certificates of analysis with every product assessment.

Officials are also collaborating with Metrc, Massachusetts’ cannabis tracking platform, to make testing certificates available to the public.

The move follows mounting scrutiny over allegations that THC potency has been overstated in legal cannabis products. Industry participants and law enforcement officials have argued for years that some laboratories may report inflated figures, driven in part by consumer demand for stronger marijuana products and pressure from businesses competing in the marketplace.

These efforts to address any inconsistencies in product labels are likely to be welcomed by the wider marijuana industry, including established firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), so that consumer confidence in products obtained from licensed outlets can be boosted.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

Federally Funded AMA Research Finds More Older Adults Opting for MMJ

A newly released federally backed study suggests that many older Americans are turning to cannabis not for recreation, but in search of relief after struggling with traditional medical treatments.

The new research explored why adults aged 60 and older have become the fastest-expanding group of cannabis users in the U.S. Investigators from the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Utah Health focused on what motivates seniors to try marijuana and what kinds of products they are most likely to choose.

Researchers interviewed 169 adults over age 60 as part of a community-based qualitative study funded by the National Institutes of Health. Participants were primarily seeking help for common challenges associated with aging, including chronic pain, sleep problems, and overall declines in quality of life.

Although growing cannabis use among seniors has received increasing public attention, researchers noted there has been limited understanding of what shapes older adults’ decisions, particularly when it comes to edible products and preferred formulations.

The study found that many participants viewed cannabis as a possible substitute for prescription medication. Interviewees frequently expressed frustration with conventional pharmaceutical options, citing concerns about side effects, dependence, and possible long-term health consequences. For some, marijuana appeared to represent a less risky alternative after difficult experiences with medications they had already tried.

The study also found that several older adults considered cannabis only after other methods had failed. Some participants said they had already attempted therapies such as massage, acupuncture, counseling, or standard medical treatments without achieving meaningful results. In those cases, cannabis was often seen as a final option for managing ongoing discomfort.

Word-of-mouth also played a role in shaping attitudes. Participants said they learned about potential benefits through conversations with friends, family members, health-related discussions, and media coverage. While health concerns dominated most responses, a smaller group expressed interest in marijuana for social reasons, such as enhancing gatherings with friends or replacing substances like alcohol.

When it came to product choices, combination marijuana products containing both THC and CBD emerged as the most popular option. About 58% of participants favored edibles blending the psychoactive compound THC with cannabidiol, or CBD, which does not produce intoxicating effects. Meanwhile, 29% preferred products dominated by CBD, and 14% selected THC-heavy options.

Even among participants willing to try cannabis, concerns remained. Those considering THC-based or mixed products often worried about becoming impaired or experiencing unwanted psychoactive effects. On the other hand, people leaning toward CBD products questioned whether they would be effective enough to address symptoms.

Sleep-related problems topped the list of leading reasons older adults sought cannabis treatment, with 57% of respondents citing them as a concern. Pain management followed at 50%, while mental health issues accounted for 25%.

The study concluded that as legalization expands across the country, increasing numbers of seniors are exploring cannabis to cope with age-related conditions rather than for purely recreational purposes. Still, they warned that many older adults are making decisions about products without clear medical guidance.

The authors emphasized the need for more research into the risks and potential benefits of cannabis, especially products that combine THC and CBD. They also called for better educational tools for both doctors and patients so older adults can make informed choices and feel supported when considering alternative approaches to pain, sleep issues, and other health concerns.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) could weigh the opportunity of coming up with a broader range of medical marijuana products tailored to address the unique needs of older adults.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — DEA Opens Portal to Register Medical Marijuana Operators

Businesses interested in operating as medical cannabis dispensaries in the U.S. can begin submitting applications starting Wednesday, April 29, following a directive from President Donald Trump to change how marijuana is classified under federal law. The update was announced through a notice published on the website of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

According to the agency, its online system for medical marijuana registration will open at 9 a.m. Eastern Time. The rollout comes just days after the Justice Department revealed plans to ease certain federal limits on cannabis-related products and accelerate efforts to place marijuana in a less restrictive category.

Companies applying for approval will need to meet several requirements. The DEA has set an annual application fee of $794. In addition, applicants must respond to detailed questions about their compliance history. This includes disclosing whether they have ever given up a professional license issued by a state authority or had a registration related to controlled substances suspended or revoked.

The application process also requires businesses to outline the security arrangements at any proposed dispensary site. These measures are intended to ensure that cannabis products are stored and distributed in line with federal expectations, particularly as oversight evolves under the new classification approach.

Cannabis remains the most commonly used illegal substance both globally and within the U.S. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that close to 20% of Americans report using marijuana at least once each year. Despite its widespread use, the drug has historically been subject to strict enforcement, leading to millions of arrests for possession over the decades.

At the same time, the legal cannabis market has expanded rapidly. A growing number of companies are involved in producing and selling marijuana-related goods in states where such activities are permitted under local law. This has created a complex landscape in which state-level legalization coexists with federal restrictions.

The decision to reclassify marijuana signals a shift in federal policy, but it does not amount to full legalization nationwide. Cannabis will still be regulated, and its legal status will continue to vary depending on jurisdiction. Federal authorities are expected to maintain oversight, even as rules are adjusted to reflect changing attitudes and increased medical use.

As applications begin, regulators and companies alike will be watching closely to see how the new system functions in practice and what it may signal for the future of cannabis policy in the U.S.

While this recent regulatory change may not have been what marijuana companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) had hoped for, it is nonetheless a starting point that other reforms can be built upon.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — US DOJ Turmoil Unlikely to Derail Cannabis Rescheduling

The abrupt dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi by President Donald Trump is unlikely to significantly alter the trajectory of cannabis rescheduling efforts, according to several individuals familiar with the situation.

Industry observers say the underlying dynamics remain unchanged, regardless of whether the Department of Justice is temporarily led by Todd Blanche or eventually by Lee Zeldin, who is widely viewed as the president’s preferred long-term appointee.

Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to reclassify cannabis, and sources indicate that efforts within the DOJ are already progressing. One person close to the process suggested that movement could come within the next one to two months.

Still, questions remain about what happens after a formal decision is made. Legal challenges are widely expected and could delay practical outcomes, including potential tax benefits for cannabis businesses.

The industry has been waiting for further action since Trump signed an executive order on December 18 directing the DOJ to reclassify cannabis as a Schedule III substance under federal law. That move went further than steps taken under former President Joe Biden, whose administration concluded that marijuana has recognized medical use but left the process unfinished amid regulatory disputes.

Trump’s stance is said to have been influenced in part by billionaire Howard Kessler, a longtime associate who has publicly credited CBD with helping him manage the effects of cancer treatment.

Some industry leaders have responded positively to Blanche’s interim leadership. Jushi Holdings’ Trent Woloveck noted that Blanche has already been involved in discussions surrounding the proposed rule. That familiarity, he said, could help avoid delays tied to onboarding a new official.

There are additional signs of momentum. According to federal records, Woloveck and a company lobbyist recently met with officials from the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which oversees implementation of presidential directives. While no specific timeline was shared, the general sentiment within the industry suggests that rescheduling is increasingly seen as inevitable.

Another development fueling that sentiment is the launch of a pilot program by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMMS) to cover certain CBD treatments. The initiative allows accountable care organizations to apply for participation. At least five have already done so, according to a CMMS statement.

While supporters view the program as a meaningful step forward, opposition remains active. Groups against cannabis reform filed a lawsuit challenging the CBD program, arguing that it failed to follow proper legal procedures. The groups have indicated they will pursue similar legal action if marijuana is formally rescheduled.

Despite the anticipated pushback, sources say officials within the DOJ are well aware of the legal risks and are preparing for them as the process moves ahead. Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be hoping that the rescheduling process is completed expeditiously so that the industry can adjust to that new regulatory framework.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Virginia Lawmakers Send Marijuana Sales Bill to Governor

Virginia is on the verge of establishing a legal marketplace for recreational cannabis, five years after lawmakers permitted possession but stopped short of creating a system for sales. The General Assembly approved legislation that would set up a regulated retail structure, resolving a long-running gap in state policy.

The state Senate signed off on a negotiated version of HB 642 late Friday, passing it with a 21 to 18 vote. A day later, on the last day of the 2026 legislative session, the House of Delegates backed the measure 64 to 32. The bill now awaits action from Governor Abigail Spanberger. If approved, it would allow adults aged 21 and older to purchase marijuana legally starting January 1, 2027.

The decision marks a turning point after repeated setbacks. In 2021, Virginia legalized possession of up to one ounce of marijuana and allowed limited home cultivation. However, efforts to establish retail sales stalled, largely due to vetoes from former Governor Glenn Youngkin.

The newly passed legislation establishes licensing rules, taxation policies, and regulatory oversight under the state Cannabis Control Authority.

Lawmakers spent months negotiating differences between House and Senate proposals. One major point of contention involved the timeline for launching sales. While the House initially pushed for a November 2026 start date, the final agreement aligns with the Senate’s later target of January 2027.

The bill imposes a 6% tax on cannabis sales and permits local governments to add a levy of 1% to 3.5%. When combined with existing sales taxes, the total rate is expected to fall between roughly 12% and 16%.

Medical cannabis businesses would be allowed to transition into the recreational market by paying a $10 million fee. The legislation also limits the number of retail licenses to 350 and increases the legal possession cap to 2.5 ounces.

Businesses seeking to operate in the cannabis sector must secure licenses and display official authorization markers. Regulators will oversee compliance, collect taxes, and track distribution. License holders will have up to two years to begin operations or risk forfeiture.

The bill also includes measures aimed at addressing past inequities tied to marijuana enforcement. It introduces funding for community reinvestment and support for small business participation. A portion of tax revenue will go toward early childhood education and programs designed to assist communities disproportionately affected by past drug policies.

Supporters argue that the legislation could bring both economic growth and a more equitable framework to the state’s cannabis industry. The wider marijuana movement, including firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be glad that a system to provide legal sources of adult-use marijuana is finally going to be launched in Virginia after so many years of being in limbo.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — More Chaos for Marijuana Operators as Trump Changes Tariff Policy Again

The legal marijuana sector has long operated under a patchwork of rules and shifting policies. Now, a new round of trade measures under President Donald Trump is adding fresh strain to an already complex marketplace.

From vaporizer components to grow equipment and packaging materials, businesses say the latest tariffs are making it harder to forecast costs and manage supply chains. Some companies have shifted production away from countries facing steep import duties. Others are holding off on major changes, unsure what the next policy move will bring.

The White House has leaned on the 1977 IEEPA to raise import taxes. Although the Supreme Court recently invalidated tariffs announced in April last year, the administration responded with a new 10% global duty that took effect last week. Trump has indicated that the rate could climb to 15%.

The 10% levy sits on top of another 25% tariff imposed during Trump’s first term on marijuana-related products from China, including mylar packaging bags and vaporizer parts.

Industry executives say the layering of fees complicates forecasting as higher import costs are likely to ripple across product categories. Many operators already operate on thin margins and face stiff competition from the illegal market, limiting their ability to pass costs on to shoppers.

Pax Labs’ vice president, Laura Fogelman, notes that even when courts strike down a tariff, the broader instability carries its own cost. Pax previously shifted part of its production from China to Malaysia to reduce exposure to earlier duties and chose to absorb some added expenses rather than raise prices.

For Custom Cones USA, which produces pre-roll packaging, earlier tariff rounds drove per-container charges from $2,000 to as much as $20,000, according to co-founder Harrison Bard. He said recent notices from federal agencies and shipping companies suggest that the latest rules remain unclear.

In response to earlier trade measures, the company set up a third-party logistics hub in Canada and launched a dedicated Canadian website to serve licensed producers there. Bard said sales north of the border dipped after the April announcement, prompting the company to strengthen its local presence.

Not every business reports major disruption. Jason Ambrosino, who runs Veterans Choice, said Chinese factories have absorbed much of the extra cost so far, keeping pricing relatively stable. He believes the broader marijuana market has largely adjusted.

Others see ongoing turmoil. Calyx Containers co-founder Alex Gonzalez said frequent policy shifts have left supply chain teams scrambling. He added that companies are forced to make quick purchasing decisions without knowing whether rates will be 10%, 15%, or something else entirely.

Gonzalez noted that some operators are trimming product lines to focus on top sellers and building closer ties with U.S. suppliers to gain more predictable cash flow. With tariffs expected to remain central to the administration’s economic strategy, many in cannabis say they are preparing for continued volatility rather than a swift return to stability.

That expected volatility will test management teams at enterprises like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) and all marijuana firms within the U.S. as supply chains may need to be reconfigured and budgets adjusted.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Links Psychiatric Disorders to Adolescent Cannabis Use

Teenagers who use marijuana may be far more likely to develop serious mental health conditions as they move into adulthood, according to a major study released in JAMA Health Forum.

The study tracked 463,396 young people aged 13 to 17 years and followed them until age 26. Investigators found that teens who reported using cannabis within the previous year faced roughly twice the risk of being diagnosed later with psychotic disorders or bipolar disorder. They were also more likely to develop anxiety and depression.

The research team reviewed electronic health records collected during routine pediatric appointments from 2016 through 2023. On average, marijuana use was reported about two years before a psychiatric condition was diagnosed. By examining data over time, researchers were able to observe how substance use and mental health outcomes unfolded, strengthening the argument that adolescent exposure to marijuana may play a role in later illness.

According to one of the study’s authors, Lynn Silver, the results highlight growing concerns as marijuana products become more potent and widely promoted. She noted that bipolar and psychotic disorders are among the most severe psychiatric illnesses and said the data support calls for stronger public health measures.

Those steps could include limiting product potency, restricting marketing aimed at young people, and expanding prevention efforts. She added that marijuana use among teens should be viewed as a health risk rather than dismissed as harmless experimentation.

Marijuana remains the most commonly used illegal substance among U.S. teenagers. A long-running survey shows that use increases as students get older, climbing from about 8% of eighth graders to 26% of high school seniors. Moreover, a 2024 national survey showed that more than one in ten teens aged between 12 and 17 reported using cannabis in the last year.

At the same time, the potency of available products has increased sharply. In California, average THC concentrations in cannabis flower now exceed 20%, far above levels seen decades ago. Concentrated products can reach more than 95% THC.

Unlike earlier research that often focused on heavy consumption or marijuana use disorder, the new study included any self-reported use within the past year. Screening was conducted universally during regular pediatric visits, allowing researchers to capture occasional users as well.

The study also found higher rates of marijuana use among teens covered by Medicaid and those living in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Researchers cautioned that expanding commercialization could widen existing mental health gaps if preventive measures are not strengthened.

These findings make a strong case for the control of black market cannabis sellers while allowing licensed companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) that implement age-verification checks to prevent minors from accessing regulated products to flourish.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — New Study Design Could Provide Workaround to Existing Research Hurdles

A pilot study conducted in Minnesota is pointing to a possible new way for scientists to study medical marijuana without becoming entangled in federal regulatory hurdles that have long limited clinical research in this area.

Researchers worked alongside Minnesota’s state-run medical marijuana program to test whether marijuana could help reduce symptoms in people recently diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer.

The findings suggest the approach is safe, practical, and acceptable to patients, while also offering early signs that cannabis may provide symptom relief.

The study focused on individuals with locally metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma, a disease often accompanied by intense pain, sleep problems, and loss of appetite. Previous research has shown that marijuana may help ease some of these issues, but strict federal controls have made large, high-quality trials difficult to conduct.

Under current federal law, marijuana is categorized by the DEA as a Schedule 1 drug, which means researchers who handle cannabis must secure special federal licenses. These requirements can be time-consuming and costly, discouraging many academic studies.

To work around those obstacles, the researchers partnered directly with the state’s medical marijuana program. This approach allowed patients to obtain cannabis legally through established channels, while researchers focused on monitoring outcomes rather than managing the drug supply.

The pilot trial enrolled 32 patients, with a median age of 71, and 53% being women. At the start of the study, most participants reported moderate to severe symptoms, including sleep problems (85%), pain (77%), and reduced appetite (69%).

Participants received education on safe marijuana use, emphasizing cautious dosing. They continued standard cancer treatments and supportive medications as needed. Half of the group received immediate access to medical cannabis during the first eight weeks, while the remainder began the intervention later, serving as a comparison group.

Ninety percent reported symptom improvement without negative health effects and said they would recommend medical cannabis to others with similar conditions.

Although differences between the early and delayed groups did not reach statistical significance, patients who received cannabis earlier showed higher rates of improvement in sleep, appetite, and pain by the eight-week mark.

The researchers emphasized caution when interpreting these findings, but said the consistency of patient reports suggests real potential benefits. One participant, interviewed shortly after starting the intervention, described being able to sleep through the night for the first time since diagnosis.

The team has since expanded the protocol to include people with advanced colorectal cancer, with additional enrollment underway. Overall, the results suggest that collaboration with state marijuana programs could help researchers overcome long-standing barriers and generate more rigorous data on medical marijuana use in cancer care.

As more such studies are conducted and they provide additional scientific data on the benefits of using medical marijuana products, more patients could gain confidence in trying products from licensed companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) to help in symptom management alongside their conventional medications.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com