420 with CNW — Study Shows Users of Medical Cannabis Report Short-Term Benefits in Quality of Life

A recent study involving hundreds of individuals using medical cannabis has shown significant and rapid improvements in overall health during the first three months of use, according to research from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). The findings, published in the “Cannabis Research Journal,” followed almost 400 adults in Pennsylvania who were new to medical marijuana treatments.

The participants, who were 46 years of age on average, used medical cannabis to address more than 20 health conditions recognized under Pennsylvania’s qualifying medical cannabis program. The most common conditions treated were severe chronic pain and anxiety disorders.

The research revealed that the respondents experienced health improvements in all aspects of their lives, including reduced pain, increased energy levels and enhanced physical, emotional and social functioning.

Lead researcher Dr. Michelle R. Lent noted that more research needs to be done to determine the long-term effects of medicinal cannabis use on health and everyday functioning. Further, she emphasized that the study — one of the most extensive so far — provides valuable insights into how medical marijuana use affects people’s lives.

“Knowing which patients can benefit most from particular therapies is crucial in this era of personalized medicine,” she added.

The respondents noted significant gains in their emotional well-being and capacity to carry out everyday duties, among other areas, after three months. Positive changes were also observed in social interactions and physical constraints.

These gains, according to the study, constituted what the researchers defined as clinically relevant progress. Notably, social functioning improved by 20%, emotional health improved by 15% and reported pain levels decreased by 20%. Compared to older adults, younger participants showed the greatest improvements in terms of their physical and pain-related outcomes.

Lent noted that deciding whether to include medical cannabis as part of a treatment plan can be difficult for both patients and healthcare providers. However, studies such as this one offer evidence in favor of more widespread access to medical marijuana treatments.

The researchers assessed the participants at intervals of three, six, nine and twelve months. While data beyond the three-month mark have yet to be fully analyzed, future studies aim to explore whether these early improvements are sustained over the longer term.

The majority of participants in the study were white and female, which may offer additional insights into the specific populations benefiting from medical-marijuana treatments.

As more of these studies are conducted, it will become clearer that the various medical marijuana products from entities such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) possibly make a significant contribution to improving the well-being and health of those who opt for these products in lieu of, or as additions to, their conventional medications.

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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.

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420 with CNW — Study Finds Drop in Marijuana Use by Teens, Rise Among Adults

A recent study revealed that marijuana use has been on the rise in the United States, though surprisingly not among young teens. The study, which analyzed the cannabis consumption habits of more than 500,000 people between 2013 and 2022, was published in the latest edition of Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports. It highlighted that marijuana use saw significant growth among individuals living in households with an annual income exceeding $75,000 and those holding college degrees.

Along with examining usage patterns over the previous 30 days, the study also looked at trends related to household income, age, gender, race, ethnicity and educational background. One unexpected outcome of the research was that cannabis use among teenagers did not increase.

The study grouped all teens aged 12 to 17 years of age together, which may have contributed to the stable numbers. The authors noted that some differences might exist if data on younger and older teens were examined separately. Notably, recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a decrease in marijuana use among high school students, dropping from 23% in 2013 to 17% last year.

State-level cannabis legalization could likely be a factor in reducing teen marijuana use. Dispensaries are strictly prohibited from selling to individuals under the age of 21 and typically require ID scanning to verify age, which may reduce illegal purchases compared to liquor stores. Other factors could also be influencing teen behavior, such as the pandemic. According to the authors, there was a notable decline in cannabis use during the pandemic, possibly due to less peer interaction and more parental supervision.

Although marijuana use among teens has stayed steady or declined, the research showed a marked increase in usage among people at higher socioeconomic levels. Cannabis consumption increased by more than threefold among individuals with college degrees and those from higher-income households.

In 2013, only 4% of college-educated people reported using cannabis, but that number grew to nearly 13% by 2022. Similarly, among households earning more than $75,000 annually, marijuana use rose from 6% in 2013 to 13% in 2022.

This shift may be related to changing attitudes toward marijuana due to legalization. Cannabis has become more normalized, especially with endorsements from public figures, including celebrities and athletes. The increasing number of dispensaries in affluent neighborhoods and near universities may also be contributing to this trend.

The authors also suggested that improved access to medical marijuana could explain part of the rise in use among wealthier individuals.

Another notable finding from the study was that marijuana use was most prevalent among non-Hispanic multiracial individuals compared to other racial and ethnic groups, with more than 25% of this group reporting marijuana use in 2022.

This recorded drop in the number of teens using marijuana provides credence to what proponents of legalization indicated that creating a regulated market in which entities such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) are allowed to operate would curb the use of this substance by underaged individuals.

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420 with CNW — Mothers in Brazil Take Lead in Advocating for Medical Cannabis for Sick Children

Brazil’s most populated state, Sao Paulo, home to more than 44 million residents, made history by being the first to pass legislation granting free access to CBD. The legislative victory was largely driven by Brazilian mothers who spent a decade campaigning tirelessly to access CBD for their ill children.

Combining CBD with other medications has shown promise for lowering seizures in individuals with severe epilepsy.

One of the mothers who led the campaign was Maria Aparecida Carvalho. At the age of 10, her daughter, Clárian, was diagnosed with severe epilepsy, which can lead to life-threatening complications, including the sudden cessation of lung and heart function.

The medications prescribed to Clárian had significant side effects, even requiring near-dialysis treatment due to poisoning. Clárian’s prolonged seizures caused immense fear and sleepless nights for her parents, who took turns watching over her.

The story of Charlotte Figi, a U.S. youngster who suffered from the same illness and went on to become a global representative of the advantages of CBD therapy, motivated Carvalho to seek CBD as an alternative. She told her husband right away, suggesting they look into getting it, even from unofficial sources if needed.

However, a few months later, the neurologist treating Clárian succeeded in smuggling some CBD into the nation by bringing it back from overseas. Eventually, with legal assistance, Carvalho obtained a court permit to cultivate cannabis in her compound, allowing her to produce CBD for her daughter and other patients.

Brazil’s current laws permit marijuana use and its extracts for medical and scientific purposes. However, cultivating it remains illegal, forcing the sector to rely on imported marijuana oil and other raw materials, which significantly drives up costs.

San Paulo state legislator Caio França, a center-leftist, drafted a measure in 2019 that would have allowed families to obtain CBD via the country’s public health system. He lobbied his largely conservative colleagues for three years, gradually winning them over with testimonies from families whose children required CBD for treatment.

The measure passed in 2022 with almost two-thirds approval from the state legislature, and Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, a former member of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro’s Cabinet, signed it into law in January 2023. Due to his conservative background, de Freitas limited the law’s scope to patients with three rare conditions, including Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes, based on research showing that CBD was effective for these specific ailments.

For companies that have for long manufactured medical marijuana products, such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), the stories coming out of Brazil about the ways in which cannabis products are helping mothers to manage the conditions of their ill kids serve as case studies of how cannabinoids can manage symptoms that conventional treatments have been ineffective in combating.

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420 with CNW — Ohio’s Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Exceed $11M in First Week

Ohio’s recreational marijuana market has experienced impressive growth, generating more than $11.5 million in sales in its first week. According to the state’s Commerce Department, Cannabis Control Division, the total revenue from adult-use cannabis sales reached $11,530,708 as of Aug. 10, 2024.

Sales officially began on Aug. 6, eight months after Ohio voters approved recreational cannabis legalization, with 57% of voters supporting the ballot measure. The average cost of an ounce of flower was $266. The data shows that 1,285 pounds of cannabis plant material and 173,043 units of processed products were sold.

Ohio’s medical marijuana market is also thriving, pulling in more than $8.3 million in sales in the same period. When recreational sales are factored in, the state’s annual revenue is expected to approach $1.3 billion. This amount would be much more than Michigan’s first-year cannabis sales revenue in 2020, which came in at $474 million for medical use and $510 million for recreational use. Conversely, Illinois recorded sales of about $11 million in the first week of 2020.

Currently, Ohio has 120 dual-use stores registered to sell marijuana for both recreational and medical purposes, up from 98 when recreational cannabis sales first started. The state intends to grant about 170 more licenses to increase retail options and 50 licenses set aside for social-equity candidates.

Despite the success, more than 70 cities across Ohio have enacted local bans preventing recreational cannabis entities from operating within their jurisdictions, as reported by Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law.

Under the ballot initiative that legalized recreational marijuana, a 10% tax is applied to all nonmedical cannabis purchases. Revenue from this tax is allocated to five different state funds: the Marijuana Social Equity and Jobs Fund, the Recreational Use Tax Fund, the Host Community Marijuana Fund, the Substance Abuse and Addiction Fund, and the Cannabis Control Division and Tax Commissioner Fund. These funds are designed to address a range of needs, from social-equity initiatives to addiction services.

Meanwhile, large marijuana operators are moving quickly to capture market share. Ascend Wellness Holdings launched recreational sales at its Carroll store on Aug. 15, 2024, following its initial rollout at locations in Sandusky, Cincinnati, Piqua and Coshocton. Verano Holdings, based in Chicago, also began recreational sales at its five Zen Leaf stores across the state.

Recreational cannabis currently is legal in 24 states, the District of Columbia and two territories. The entire cannabis industry, including companies such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be rooting for the industry in Ohio to grow and reach its full potential so that the consumers who need these products can access them legally and conveniently.

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420 with CNW — CU Anschutz Researchers Studying Users’ Capacity to Drive Under Influence of Marijuana

Researchers at the CU Anschutz School of Public Health have embarked on a paid study focusing on marijuana users to examine impairment levels. Over the past two years, the research has involved more than 200 participants aged between 25 and 55 years. Depending on the amount of marijuana consumed, each study session can last anywhere from three to five hours.

Dr. Ashley Brooks-Russell, a lead researcher at the school, explained, “This study allows us to observe the changes people experience after consuming cannabis, including alterations in driving behavior, reaction times, memory, blood composition and eye characteristics. Police officers, in particular, often examine eye changes as a sign of impairment during traffic stops.”

Brooks-Russell highlighted that cannabis impairment remains a significant issue, contributing to crashes and traffic stops. Unlike other drugs, detecting marijuana impairment is challenging due to the lack of straightforward tools for law enforcement. “We’re particularly interested in how daily cannabis users differ from occasional users. Many people use cannabis for medical reasons and develop tolerance, showing fewer changes compared to those who use it sporadically,” she added.

Participants are placed in a controlled environment during the study, where they consume high-concentration marijuana products such as edibles, dabs or vape pens. Once the substance takes effect, researchers conduct blood tests, administer various assessments on an iPad and evaluate participants’ driving abilities using a simulator. The driving simulator is not designed to measure one’s driving skill but rather to observe any negative changes in driving ability due to cannabis use.

The researchers have observed subtle driving impairments among occasional recreational marijuana users, such as weaving in traffic, delayed reaction times, memory lapses and eye changes.

“Our focus is currently on cannabis alone, but there’s potential to expand the study to include cannabis in combination with other substances. In real-world scenarios, people often use multiple substances that affect different brain parts, leading to varied effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial,” noted Dr. Brooks-Russell.

Additionally, the study aims to involve adults 65 years of age and older, because this demographic is experiencing the fastest growth in cannabis use. “In this age group, there are added complexities, like other medications they may be taking and normal cognitive decline associated with aging,” Brooks-Russell explained.

Ultimately, this research aims to develop a tool, similar to an alcohol breathalyzer, which could assist law enforcement in accurately detecting cannabis impairment and enhancing road safety. The entire cannabis industry, including established companies, such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), is likely to take an interest in this ongoing study and any actionable outcomes that may result upon its conclusion.

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420 with CNW — Brazilian Supreme Court Ends Criminalization of Cannabis Possession for Personal Use

The Brazilian Supreme Court recently voted to decriminalize cannabis possession for personal use, joining other Latin American nations in this reform and potentially reducing its substantial prison population. The majority of the justices, since the discussions began in 2015, have supported this move.

The justices now need to decide on the maximum amount of cannabis considered for personal use, with the effective date of the ruling expected soon. The justices who favored the decision noted that decriminalization should only apply to personal use amounts, keeping the sale of drugs illegal.

A 2006 bill passed by the U.S. Congress sought to penalize those who carried minor amounts of drugs, including marijuana, with noncustodial sentences such as community service. However, critics argue that it was too ambiguous, lacking a specific amount to distinguish trafficking from personal.

In response to the Supreme Court’s deliberations, Congress is separately working on a proposal to strengthen drug laws, complicating the legal landscape regarding cannabis possession. The Senate approved an amendment in April criminalizing possession of any illegal substances. This proposal passed the lower House’s constitutional committee on June 12, 2024, and needs approval from at least one more committee before a full House vote.

Should lawmakers approve the bill, it would override the Supreme Court’s decision but could still face constitutional challenges.

Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco stated that it is not within the top court’s jurisdiction to decide on the matter. The court’s decision has long been awaited by legal scholars and activists in Brazil, a country with the world’s third-largest prison population. Critics argue that the current laws often result in users being convicted on trafficking charges and incarcerated in overcrowded prisons, where they face pressure to join gangs.

As of the end of 2023, Brazil had about 852,000 people incarcerated, nearly 25% of whom were detained for drug trafficking or possession. The prison system is overcrowded, and Black individuals are disproportionately affected, comprising more than two-thirds of the inmates.

According to a recent study by the Brazilian research company Insper, Black people were marginally more likely than whites to be charged with drug trafficking. More than 3.5 million records from the public security secretariat of Sao Paulo were examined in this investigation between 2010 and 2020.

Leftist politician Chico Alencar celebrated the decision on social media, calling it a major step forward for Brazil’s drug policy and an issue of public health rather than safety and punishment. However, Gustavo Scandelari, an expert on Brazil’s penal code, contended that even if the court establishes a cap on the amount for personal use, the decision might not result in significant changes. He pointed out that although money plays a role in defining whether someone is viewed as a dealer or a user, it is not the only way.

In other Latin American countries, medical cannabis is permitted, though often under strict regulations. Colombia decriminalized possession about 10 years ago, but a measure to regulate recreational use failed to pass in the Senate last August. Similarly, Peru, Venezuela and Ecuador allow medical use but prohibit possession and distribution for other purposes.

For cannabis companies that could have foreign markets in the sights, such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), these developments in Brazil may be of more than casual interest since they could later open the door to broader cannabis-policy reforms that allow established companies to enter that market.

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420 with CNW — Two New Books Explore Marijuana’s Medical Powers

For those interested in exploring marijuana’s medical benefits, two recently published books —Josh Leddy’s “Living with Cannabis: A Personal Journey” and Dr. Benjamin Caplan’s “The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook” — provide essential insights. The books offer both professional guidance and firsthand accounts, making them invaluable for anyone curious about cannabis’s therapeutic uses.

The book by Dr. Benjamin Caplan offers a thorough manual on medical marijuana use. Caplan, a board-certified family physician with experience treating more than 250,000 patients, reveals his in-depth understanding of the ways that cannabis can help with a range of ailments, including cancer, sleeplessness, cognitive decline and chronic pain. The book explores the science of cannabis, providing lucid descriptions of its workings, appropriate products and dosages.

Caplan highlights the value of guided cannabis therapy, which gives patients autonomy over their care regimens and enables individualized and efficient treatment. The guidebook, which has been recommended by both patients and industry professionals, is a vital tool for everyone considering using cannabis to enhance their health.

Melissa Etheridge, a cannabis activist and cancer survivor, gave high marks to the book. “As a cannabis supporter and cancer survivor, I am aware of the significant role that marijuana plays. Dr. Caplan’s latest book provides an abundance of knowledge along with a significant amount of empathy and understanding,” she said.

On the other hand, Leddy’s book offers a firsthand account of his experience using marijuana as a pain reliever without surgery. Leddy, an entrepreneur and athlete, tells his tale of using cannabis’ healing properties to overcome serious injuries and mental-health issues. The book provides helpful guidance on pain management without requiring invasive procedures or prescription drugs.

Leddy’s story is both intimate and educational, describing his struggles with severe pain and how marijuana changed his life. He highlights the emotional and physical health advantages of cannabis while offering readers tools and ways to manage their own pain and live better.

Together, these books present a well-rounded view of the medical uses of cannabis. They combine expert medical advice with real-life experiences, making them essential reads for anyone interested in the potential benefits of cannabis for health and wellness. Whether you are exploring cannabis for personal use or professional knowledge, “Living with Cannabis: A Personal Journey” and “The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook” provide a wealth of information to help you understand and navigate the therapeutic use of cannabis effectively.

These publications are likely to increase public awareness about the therapeutic potential of the different medical cannabis products made by the numerous licensed companies such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), and this could motivate more patients to try these products to ease their symptoms.

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420 with CNW — Survey Explores Views of Americans on Cannabis Legalization

As the United States moves closer to rescheduling and legalizing cannabis, critical questions emerge about who should benefit from these changes and who is best suited to craft equitable cannabis policies. Big businesses frequently have a big say in what laws are passed, and the cannabis industry seems to be no exception. But who, in the opinion of Americans, ought to have more influence over cannabis laws?

A recent survey by the Parabola Center, a nonpartisan think tank made up of experts in drug policy and law who advocate for marijuana legalization with a special emphasis on small enterprises and individuals, provides insight into public opinion. When respondents were asked who they trusted to develop effective marijuana policies, they provided the following responses:

67%: individuals with firsthand experience
56%: cannabis users
55%: social-equity advocates
24%: representatives from pharmaceutical companies
22%: federal government
18%: executives from the tobacco industry
13%: executives from the alcohol industry

It makes sense that people have little faith in executives in the alcohol and tobacco industries, given the harmful effects of their products. Furthermore, as their regular customer base shrinks, a few of these businesses are keen to join the cannabis space.

When asked about their top concerns regarding marijuana policy, respondents said the following:

68%: promoting social equity
68%: ending cannabis-related arrests
65%: ensuring access to marijuana
49%: fostering a sharing society
42%: preserving cannabis culture
27%: keeping cannabis illegal

The war on drugs, including marijuana prohibition, disproportionately harmed certain communities. Many believe that fair policies could help address some of the injustices caused by past enforcement. In fact, according to 61% of respondents, legalization should help individuals who have been negatively impacted by current prohibitions.

President Joseph Biden has also acknowledged the negative impacts caused by outdated cannabis policies. He stated in 2022 while announcing a review of how marijuana is classified, that many lives have been upended because of failed cannabis policy approaches, and it was time to make the mistakes right.

When asked who should benefit from cannabis legalization, respondents identified the following top three groups:

85%: people using marijuana for medicinal purposes
73%: workers in the marijuana industry
63%: recreational users

Conversely, the least-favored groups included alcohol companies, the tobacco industry, large corporations and pharmaceutical companies.

The survey, conducted in September 2023, involved 404 U.S. adults. Although not extensive, it may be one of the first surveys to explore this particular angle of marijuana policy and legalization.

Entities such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) will be pleased to see that the general public sentiment is in favor of ending cannabis prohibition at the federal level and allowing experienced industry professionals to be in charge of policy making and implementation.

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420 with CNW — Signature Collection Can Begin After North Dakota Cannabis Legalization Ballot Initiative Gains Official Approval

Michael Howe, North Dakota’s secretary of state, recently gave the green light for the circulation of a petition aiming to legalize marijuana. If approved, the measure would allow adults aged 21 and older to grow, process, use and sell cannabis. Additionally, it would establish a regulatory body to oversee marijuana-related entities within the state.

The proposal also includes specific regulations concerning processing and production, as well as restrictions on usage, such as in vehicles and public spaces, and provisions for home cultivation.

To qualify for inclusion on the ballot, supporters of the petition must gather a minimum of 15,582 signatures by April 25 next year. Should they meet this deadline by July 8 this year, the legislation will be put to a vote in November’s general election. However, if the required signatures are collected after this date but before next year’s deadline, the legislation will be deferred to the next statewide election, anticipated to occur in 2026.

An advertisement posted on Indeed reveals that advocates of the proposal are seeking North Dakotans to assist in petition circulation across various cities, including Dickinson, Bismarck, Devils Lake, Grand Forks, Fargo, Jamestown, Williston and Minot.

Spearheading the initiative is Steve Bakken, a former mayor of Bismarck and current Burleigh County commissioner. Bakken underlined the need for more efficient use of resources, particularly in the fight against illegal drugs and substances such as fentanyl. He also emphasized the group’s goal of averting the possible adoption of a badly written initiative.

In previous years, voters in the state have rejected similar measures to legalize cannabis, with 55% opposing the proposal in 2022 and an even larger margin against it in 2018. Despite these setbacks, in 2021, the state’s House passed legislation aimed at legalizing and taxing recreational cannabis. However, these efforts were thwarted by the GOP-led senate.

Voters approved medical cannabis in 2016, leading to the establishment of a state-run program that currently serves about 10,000 patients. Additionally, the state’s Pardon Advisory Board introduced a new procedure to streamline pardons for minor cannabis offenses in 2019, resulting in 100 pardons by Governor Doug Burgum.

Currently, 24 states have legalized recreational cannabis, with Ohio being the most recent to do so through a ballot initiative last year. Additionally, similar initiatives are being carried out in other states. Florida is scheduled to vote on a ballot measure in November, and there are active signature-collection campaigns in states including South Dakota, Nebraska and Arkansas.

The opportunity for voters in North Dakota to end marijuana prohibition will likely be watched by industry companies such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) because the enactment of a law creating a marijuana market would give residents the choice to consume marijuana for recreational purposes much like it is happening in other states around the country.

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420 with CNW — Partial Legalization of Cannabis in Germany to Take Effect in April

The German parliament has given the green light to partially legalize marijuana for recreational personal use, ushering in some of Europe’s most lenient cannabis regulations. The substance was made legal for recreational use in Malta and Luxembourg in 2023 and 2021, respectively. The Netherlands, on the other hand, which is renowned for having lax marijuana laws, has started toughening up on sales to visitors and nonresidents.

The German approval came following a landmark vote in the Upper House, or Bundesrat, where legislators endorsed the measure. Once the new regulations take effect on April 1, 2024, individuals will be allowed to obtain up to 25 grams of marijuana per day through regulated cultivation associations. Additionally, they can cultivate up to three cannabis plants.

While this move represents a progressive stance, especially in comparison to neighboring countries, the law still prohibits cannabis possession and use for individuals under the age of 18, maintaining a degree of caution.

The journey toward approval wasn’t without its challenges. Internal conflicts arose over the marijuana issue within the alliance, which includes the Greens, the Free Democratic Party and Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats. The initial plan to allow cannabis sales in shops was thwarted by the European Union, leading to the formulation of a secondary law aimed at piloting such sales in specific regions.

Ahead of the vote, Karl Lauterbach, the health minister, urged parliamentarians to support the contentious law, citing a surge in youth marijuana consumption sourced from the illicit market. However, opposition voices, such as Simone Borchardt from the Christian Democratic Union, raised concerns about the potential health risks, particularly for young people. Borchardt criticized the coalition government, accusing officials of prioritizing ideology over the nation’s interests.

Despite having already been passed by the Bundestag last month, the legislation still required Bundesrat approval, which it successfully obtained.

Advocates of the measure, such as the German Marijuana Association, highlighted the dangers associated with black-market marijuana, which can be contaminated with various substances, including heroin or synthetic cannabinoids.

Steffen Geyer, head of Berlin’s Hemp Museum, hailed the bill as a move toward a more reasonable and tolerant marijuana policy. Opponents of the law, however, pointed out that cannabis use among the youth might have negative consequences on the central nervous system and raise the risk of schizophrenia and psychosis.

The new regulation is still polarizing public opinion: a recent YouGov survey found 47% in favor and 42% against. This is a reflection of the ongoing discussion about legalizing cannabis and the necessity for rules that strike a balance between protecting individual liberties and public-health issues.

The legal changes to marijuana laws in Germany could eventually open opportunities for established companies such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) that have set their sights on expanding beyond their primary markets.

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