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TmpLexPelger
Oct 20, 2025

[As always, for the best formatting, see the edition on Substack:
https://www.cannabinoidsandthepeople.whitewhalecreations.com/p/c-and-p161-cannabinoids-for-sleep]

This week

  • Cannabis for sleep, vulvas & lower back pain (again)
  • For your cats at the vet, CBD to increase compliance
  • CBD in dogs & ponies (the dog one is fascinating)
  • Great charts on cannabinoids in cancer as well as PTSD
  • Reviews: Cannabinoids for old people with dementia, young people with dystonia or psychiatric disorders, or for anyone with anxiety or migraines
  • Less autobiographical memories in drug users?
  • Naloxone for a synthetic cannabinoid overdose?
  • A cannabis stock analysis says, ‘Don’t invest!’
  • Abstracts from a psychiatric genetics conference + an adolescent psychiatry conference
  • (2x) Harms of prenatal CBD exposure
  • Preclinical: CBDV for Rett syndrome + thyme/CBD/CBG for inflammatory skin conditions + CBD for neuropathy from chemotherapy + (3x) CBD for the guts(this week’s numbers: ~9,100 words, ~22 minutes reading time, 206 papers)

Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 161st edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science, assorted canna-news & coverage of psychedelics, the War on Drugs & harm reduction. Support this work sharing canna-science with a paid subscription here. As always, ask me anything.
#EndDrugWars #LegalizeAllDrugs

Editor’s notes :
At the University of Cape Town from June 25-26, the International Cannabis Symposium 2026 will bring together leading academics, policymakers, legal experts & industry professionals to address the foundational challenges in cannabis & hemp policy development, with a focus on the need for equitable, evidence-based approaches to cannabis regulation worldwide.

For my business White Whale Creations, with the kids growing up, I finally have room to take on another contract. For a great cannabinoid company, I’d like to run their podcast or newsletter or video series or educational platform about the science, history or medical aspects of cannabis. Any leads or help appreciated.

Also, a reminder that voting is still open for the EmJay awards & if you’d like to vote for me for ‘Cannabis Journalist of the Year’, you can do so once a day at the bottom of this page. I do appreciate the votes. It’s been intriguing to see how even just the nomination has opened the door to more people wanting to interview me or asking for advice about getting cannabinoids into their loved ones.
As always, weed for grandmas!

Sponsor : The Cannabis & Health Research Initiative

Want to help expand the knowledge of medical cannabis use in the real world & get paid 100 bucks to do so?

Johns Hopkins University, with support from Realm of Caring, is spearheading the groundbreaking National Cannabis Study to evaluate the benefits, risks & overall outcomes of using cannabis for conditions like pain, insomnia, anxiety & more. If you are an adult in the U.S. considering starting cannabis for health reasons, this is your chance to help shape the future of cannabis research — and get compensated for your time ($100!). Join now to share your experience & contribute valuable data that could revolutionize healthcare for many patients nationwide. To learn more & sign up, visit:
https://ncs.cannabisandhealth.org/

Follow along on Instagram to keep on learning or sign up for the monthly CHRI email (curated by me) to get just the best of clinical research & new reviews each month.

Free resources

  • CVResearch.info: the extensive cannabinoid science archive I maintain for CV Sciences
  • Canna-edu videos: on YouTube @CVScienceInc & on TikTok @pluscbd (backup account @cannabinoidsandthepeople)
  • My Free How-To Guides on cannabinoids for different conditions. #AMA
  • My canna-science journalism
  • My glossary of cannabinoid terms (& my Neural Ocean metaphor)

And as always, at the bottom is the album of the week: Albert Ammons, boogie woogie & animation

Ways to support this work
A paid subscription on Substack
Buy Me a Coffee Venmo: @Lex-Pelger
PayPal: donate here

For more from Lex… | my Linktree |

  • ‘Anandamide; or, the Cannabinoid’: my cannabis graphic novel series (based on Moby Dick):- ‘SUNset’: Queer canna-history from the AIDS crisis- ‘The CROWN’: the hunt for the chemical structure of CBN, the first fully-solved cannabinoid, as explained through elephants
  • First 2 seasons of my podcast ‘The Lex Files’ on cannabinoids, psychedelics & spirituality
  • Work with my company White Whale Creations to produce cannabis content: writing, science archives, social media, newsletters & podcasts: my portfolio

A request to spread the word
This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth,
so please forward to colleagues & tell your friends & relatives.

My work this week

(on YT @CVSciencesInc & on TT @pluscbd)

  • CBD for Vulvas
  • Cannabis & Sleep
  • Cats & Dogs & Cannabinoids
  • Cancer & Cannabis
  • CBD Preclinical Research Roundup

Vids:

(@LexPelgerAndHisBooks on TikTok, YouTube & Instagram)

  • My Books by the Couch
  • My Queer Canna-Book Reading (if you’ve breathlessly been awaiting a shirtless 17-minute reading of the first pages of my Queer cannabis graphic novel, you're in luck!)
  • Last of opening boxes from Uncle Buck’s Library: #62 + #63 + Last Box!
  • Tour of Uncle Buck's Library
  • Moment of Zen - Organizing Uncle Buck's Books
  • Sciencemancy: Zombie Trials

BEST OF CANNABINOID SCIENCE

(most of the phytocannabinoid data is here & most of the ECS data is in the ‘Canna-Science Archive’ at the bottom)

⚕️ Clinical ⚕️

For lower back pain, this phase 3 trial of VER 01 (a proprietary cannabis extract) provided better pain relief, sleep & GI tolerability than opioids
VER-01 Shows Enhanced Gastrointestinal Tolerability, Superior Pain Relief, and Improved Sleep Quality Compared to Opioids in Treating Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Phase 3 Clinical Trial
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40122-025-00773-z

For people with insomnia, data from Project Twenty21 found cannabinoid treatment associated with a large & clinically significant improvement in sleep quality & a reduction in sleep medications, with the improvement maintained for up to 12 months
Changes in sleep quality among patients prescribed medicinal cannabis: Real-world evidence from Project Twenty 21
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20503245251362491

In people with Parkinson's disease, CBD synergized with the treatment levodopa & this was only enhanced with a protein-controlled diet for improvements in motor control, depression, motivation & sleep
Investigating the synergistic and modulatory effects of cannabidiol with levodopa and dietary protein in Parkinson's disease
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/396142222_P_U_B_L_I_C_A_T_I_O_N_S_CODON_Investigating_the_synergistic_and_modulatory_effects_of_cannabidiol_with_levodopa_and_dietary_protein_in_Parkinson%27s_disease

In people with vestibulodynia (vulval sensations of burning & irritation), a 5% CBD gel with the terpene myrcene reduced pain scores & lessened pain during sex
Efficacy and Safety of Topical 5% Cannabidiol Plus Myrcene for the Treatment of Vestibulodynia: A Multi-Centric Randomized Controlled Trial
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/13/10/2440

In people with breast cancer with pain from aromatase inhibitors, CBD improved joint pain
Pilot Study of Cannabidiol for Treatment of Aromatase Inhibitor-Associated Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Breast Cancer
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40751295/

For exercise in people with cancer vs. healthy controls, it increased their levels of the endocannabinoids anandamide, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), stearoylethanolamide (SEA) & 1-arachidonoylglycerol (1-AG), especially in the cancer patients who had low endocannabinoid levels
Endocannabinoid system and mood responses to acute aerobic exercise in adult cancer patients versus healthy controls
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-7028112/v1

On naloxone for a synthetic cannabinoid overdose, a case report & review of the literature
Intranasal naloxone to treat suspected synthetic cannabinoid overdose: A case report and literature review
https://mhc.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/mhcl/15/5/article-p248.xml

For autobiographical memory, those reported recreational substance use such as cannabis, MDMA & cocaine recalled significantly fewer specific personal event memories than non-users
Recreational substance use is linked with difficulty in recalling personal experiences
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-13800-y
Yeah maybe. But as Eckhart Tolle said in the only line I’ve ever read from him when I bibliomanced his book, “I have little use for the past.”
Maybe those drug users weren't wasting time looking backwards, but instead were obsessively running towards their futures.

For people taking methamphetamine or MDMA, the only significant endocannabinoid effect was methamphetamine causing lower blood levels of 2-AG
The effect of methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on peripheral endocannabinoid concentrations: a study in healthy adults
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-025-06888-7

In cats, CBD increased scores for sedation, compliance & temperament
Evaluation of Cannabidiol Oil's Effects on Sedation, Behavioral Responses to Handling, and Nociceptive Thresholds in Healthy Cats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40646886/
“These results indicate that 8 mg/kg CBD induces mild sedation and reduces handling resistance in healthy cats without affecting nociceptive thresholds or physiological stability. “

In ponies, on the effects & absorption of CBD
Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol and its two main phase I metabolites in Connemara ponies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40654508/

For dogs taking CBD long-term, they had shifts of 584 metabolites
The long-term effect of cannabidiol on the circulating metabolome of healthy adult dogs
https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/103/Supplement_3/463/8274363
“Long-term supplementation of the broad-spectrum CBD significantly shifted 584 metabolites in total. Of which, cannabidiol significantly altered major lipid classes (291/584) including fatty acid synthesis and metabolism in dogs by upregulating molecules in the acyl carnitine pathway (16/584) and various fatty acids (74/584), while down-regulating lysophospholipids (45/584). Additionally, the 5 mg/kg CBD group showed relative reductions s of lysoplasmalogens (9/584), plasmalogens (17/584), sphingomyelins (29/584), eicosanoids 12-HTE, thromboxane B2 and 12-HHTrE, alongside reductions in cortisol, corticosterone, and increases in omega-3 fatty acids, indicating an ability to possibly better control inflammation. Additionally, markers of reduced gut inflammation, such as gamma glutamyl peptides and beneficial indoles, were elevated in both CBD groups. Cannabidiol appeared to have an antioxidant effect, as evidenced by increases in glutathione degradation products and vitamin E derivatives, although vitamin C metabolites decreased. Furthermore, both groups showed increased bile acids and bilirubin degradation products, with dose-dependent elevation of taurine-derived endocannabinoids and reduction of endocannabinoid linoleoyl ethanolamide.”

Reviews

For cannabinoids & cancer, a review of their antioxidant activity as well as treatment & prevention effects (great charts!)
Unveiling the Antioxidant Role of Hemp Oils in Cancer Prevention and Treatment
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40647426/

In disorders of oral pain & inflammation, this review of 7 cannabinoid studies found benefits for reducing pain, muscle tension, gum inflammation, bacterial load & ulcer symptoms
Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in oral disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002817725004787

In PTSD, a review of the involvement of the endocannabinoids, GABA (the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter) & glutamate (the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter) (great charts!)
The Involvement of the Endocannabinoid, Glutamatergic, and GABAergic Systems in PTSD
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40649707/

For CBD & anxiety, a review of 64 studies found that it worked primarily via the CB1 & 5-HT1A serotonin receptors
Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol for Anxiety: A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Review
https://jurnal.unismuhpalu.ac.id/index.php/jphp/article/view/6807

For CBD & psychiatric, neurological & substance use disorders in adolescents, a review of 33 papers
Evidence for Cannabidiol as a Medication for the Treatment of Neurological, Psychiatric, Behavioral and Substance Use Disorders in Adolescents
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7051/5/4/54

For older adults with dementia, this review of 10 studies found cannabinoids helped to reduce agitation & nocturnal disturbances (nice graphical abstract)
Can cannabinoids alleviate behavioral symptoms in older adults with dementia? A systematic review
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/02698811251375895

In young people with dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions), a review of 6 studies found symptomatic relief with cannabinoid treatment
Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Pediatric Dystonia: Insights from a Systematic Review and Clinical Cases
https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/html/10.1055/s-0045-1812149

For migraines, a review of how phytocannabinoids utilize the endocannabinoid system
Treatment of Migraine With Phytocannabinoids, the Involvement of Endocannabinoids in Migraine, and Potential Mechanisms of Action
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40630421/

From metabolic syndrome, a review on using ALIAmides such as the endocannabinoids palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) & oleoylethanolamide (OEA)
Targeting metabolic syndrome with ALIAmides: A novel multi-mechanistic approach
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225008054

For olfactory dysfunction or smell loss, a review of the potential of combining terpenes & olfactory training
Potential role of terpenes in recovery from olfactory dysfunction with olfactory training: a review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40643786/

⚠️ Harms ⚠️

For prenatal cannabis development, a review of brain scan studies found differences in frontal, parietal & temporal areas from in utero to adolescence
Investigating links between prenatal cannabis exposure and brain development using MRI techniques: a narrative review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667174325001788

For e-cigarette & vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI), a review of 11 studies covering 156 cases on toxicology & autopsy findings
E-cigarette and Vaping-associated Lung Injury (EVALI): A Systematic Review of Forensic Pathology and Toxicological Perspectives
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/09710973251378817

In children with THC exposure, data from the Oregon Poison Center found that ingestions greater than 30 mg were linked to severe symptoms & major effects
Minimum tetrahydrocannabinol dose that produces severe symptoms in children
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15563650.2025.2562305

In children with accidental delta-8 THC ingestion, an analysis of poison control data of 232 cases found that 1.7 mg /kg doses was a cutoff value for severe or prolonged toxicity
Investigation of the toxic dose of ingested delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol among young children
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40621-025-00617-6

A case report of lipoid pneumonia (from the inhalation of fat-like materials) from oral CBD oil
Cannabidiol oil — an uncommon cause of exogenous lipoid pneumonia
https://jbp.org.br/details/4161/en-US/cannabidiol-oil-%E2%80%94-an-uncommon-cause-of-exogenous-lipoid-pneumonia

In a prenatal mouse model of CBD exposure, the females exhibited anxiety-like symptoms by early adolescence, which persisted into adulthood & increased repetitive behaviors in both sexes
Sex-specific disruptions in the developmental trajectory of anxiety-like behaviors due to prenatal cannabidiol exposure
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-025-03517-x

In a mouse model of prenatal CBD exposure, maternal consumption of clinically relevant CBD doses increased thermal pain sensitivity in male offspring & impaired cognition & reduced excitability of the prefrontal cortex in female offspring
Consumption of clinically relevant cannabidiol doses during pregnancy alters postnatal behavior in offspring
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40654967/

Preclinical

In a rat model of neuropathy from chemotherapy, CBD prevented their mechanical & thermal sensitivity
Prevention of Allodynia and Hyperalgesia by Cannabidiol in a Rat Model of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40622941/

In a rat model of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment, THC-enhanced learning but impaired decision-making, with little effects from CBD
Investigating the therapeutic potential of phytocannabinoids on HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment in the HIV-1 transgenic rat
https://escholarship.org/uc/item/6w1877x3

In a female mouse model of Rett syndrome, CBDV lessened motor coordination impairments & preserved cognitive function
Cannabidivarin mitigates motor and cognitive impairments in a female mouse model of Rett syndrome
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40633901/

In a rat model of pancreatitis, CBD reduced damage & oxidative stress in the pancreas & liver
The effect of cannabinoids on liver injury associated with acute pancreatitis
https://bmrat.biomedpress.org/index.php/BMRAT/article/view/1009

In a mouse model of intestinal inflammation, CBD oil reduced inflammatory processes via the modulation of PPAR nuclear receptors (which regulate genetic transcription)
PPARα Expression Analysis in a Murine Model of Sepsis-like Inflammation Intestinal Tissue Treated with a Cannabidiol-Enriched Broad Spectrum Cannabis Oil
https://researcherslinks.com/current-issues/PPAR-Expression-Analysis-in-a-Murine/33/1/11458/html

In a tissue model of intestinal inflammation, CBD & CBG inhibited inflammatory chemokines
Efficacy of non-psychotropic Cannabis sativa L. standardized extracts in a model of intestinal inflammation
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-025-00335-2

In a rat model of colitis from a high-fat, high-sugar diet, CBG reduced inflammation, possibly via restoration of insulin signaling & modulation of sphingolipid metabolism
Sphingolipid metabolism and insulin resistance – Does cannabigerol protect against experimental colitis induced by high-fat high-sucrose diet
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225008170

In mice gut microbiomes, on the effects of CBD
Effect of intraperitoneal cannabidiol (CBD) injection on intestine microbiome profile in a mouse model
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00294-025-01327-8

For inflammatory skin diseases, thyme essential oil synergized with a CBD/CBG formulation to cause antioxidant & anti-inflammatory effects
Valorization of Thyme Combined with Phytocannabinoids as Anti-Inflammatory Agents for Skin Diseases
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/17/10/1291

On CBDTech (a liposomal delivery system) in a rat model of epilepsy, it had better seizure reduction than Epidiolex & improved bioavailability
Preclinical assessment of pharmacokinetics and anticonvulsant activity of CBDTech, a novel orally administered cannabidiol (CBD) formulation for seizure and epilepsy
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-025-00322-7

In a model of seizures, a long-acting injectable CBD formulation had a significant & durable anticonvulsant effect
Anti-convulsant efficacy of long-acting injectable cannabidiol formulation (IVL5005) in the pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsions, with pharmacokinetic characterization
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1692123/abstract

In human lung arteries, CBG caused vasorelaxation via several pathways
Ex vivo study of the vasorelaxant activity induced by cannabigerol in human pulmonary artery- the role of endothelium, sex and selected clinical factors
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006295225006483

Novel Studies

(my grab bag section for stuff I haven’t quite seen before)

When combining Ritalin & a SSRI in a rat, they had higher levels of CB1 receptors in their somatosensory cortex (a brain region for processing sensory information)
Combined chronic oral methylphenidate and fluoxetine treatment increases CB1 receptor density in the somatosensory forelimb region
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304394025002964

In a mouse model of depression, those with extra Neurensin-2 (a brain protein involved in transport & synaptic function) had reduced levels of CB1 receptors, confirming a role of Neurensin-2 as a stress-induced regulator of the CB1 receptor
Neurensin-2 is a negative regulator of CB1 receptor
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295225006471

US Headlines & Fav Articles

In the US last year, FBI data showed 188k arrested for cannabis, with that number probably quite understated
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/more-than-200000-people-were-arrested-for-marijuana-in-the-u-s-last-year-fbi-data-shows/

For US med schools, a panel finalized six cannabis competencies for teaching evidence-based cannabis education
https://conexiant.com/family-medicine/articles/panel-finalizes-6-cannabis-competencies-for-us-med-schools/
Developing Medical Cannabis Competencies: A Consensus Statement
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2839750

Instagram will start limiting content to teens that it deems harmful, such as cannabis paraphernalia
https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/instagram-teen-accounts-pg-13-ratings/

In Florida, courts rule police cannot search vehicles because of the smell of cannabis alone
https://eu.tallahassee.com/story/news/local/state/2025/10/02/florida-court-says-police-cant-search-cars-for-marijuana-smell/86474392007/
But meanwhile, the state is actively revoking the medical cannabis registrations of patients & caregivers with drug convictions under a new law from cannabis enemy Gov DeSantis
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/florida-officials-are-revoking-medical-marijuana-ids-from-patients-and-caregivers-with-drug-convictions-under-law-signed-by-desantis/

A short history on the Arabic history of cannabis edibles
Just Call It Weed On Arabic Edibles
https://dash.harvard.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/0536abe2-6474-4262-8dfe-766444d1a4ce/content

Spiritual Classics Corner: for the Chinese classics such as Lao Tzu’s’ Tao Te Ching’, they were usually first recorded on bamboo or wood strips bound together by hemp
A Translation of Lao-tzu’s Tao Te Ching and Wang Pi’s Commentary
https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/166/oa_monograph/book/77801/pdf
And for anyone interested in the Tao Te Ching, here’s my video of reading a favorite chapter from the intriguing translation I’m going through now of the Ma Wang tui texts (a cache of silk manuscripts from a 2nd century BCE tomb that includes early & illuminating versions of the Tao Te Ching & other classic texts).

International Updates

In the EU, new prevalence data on cannabis use among young adults with Italy at the top & Hungary at the bottom
https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/10/13/where-in-the-eu-do-most-young-adults-consume-cannabis

In Colombia, President Gustavo Petro said he will regulate adult-use cannabis after the new UN resolution
https://x.com/petrogustavo/status/1977866298471121008
Also, he was the first sitting president to talk about his use of ayahuasca (it’s been fun to going through my archives from the early years of this newsletter & finding gems like that).

In South Africa, on their complex & confusing cannabis laws
https://unicornriot.ninja/2025/south-africas-new-marijuana-laws/

In North Macedonia, an analysis of their readiness for legalized cannabis
Decriminalization of recreational marijuana in the Republic of North Macedonia
https://journals.unt.edu.mk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Journal-of-Law-and-Politics-JLP-Volume-1_Issue-1-2025.pdf

⚖️ Business, Laws & Education ⚖️

An analysis of cannabis patents by Dr. Ruth Fisher
https://quantaa.com/blog/607-cannabis-patents

For cannabis stocks, a financial analysis found persistent underperformance & elevated risk compared to US & global benchmarks
The Cannabis Conundrum: Persistent Negative Alphas and Portfolio Risks
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9091/13/10/193

For cannabis use & work, 7% reported using cannabis at work or within two hours of starting work
Cross-sectional analysis of cannabis use at work in the USA: differences by occupational risk level and state-level cannabis laws
https://bmjpublichealth.bmj.com/content/3/2/e001589

In Long Beach, California, a thesis project of interviews on cannabis policy & equity outcomes
Cannabis Policy and Equity Outcomes in Long Beach, California
https://www.proquest.com/openview/28993c4f6b69c25fa0054bdba3ed6c54/1

For cannabis driving laws in California, a survey found only mixed awareness of driving-related regulations
Driving and cannabis use: a questionnaire about knowledge and behaviors after the legalization of recreational cannabis in California
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-025-24309-4
Turns out that nobody in a moving vehicle can be smoking or ingesting cannabis. And if there is a cannabis container inside a moving vehicle, it must be unopened & sealed.

In the Mid-Atlantic US, a review on the cannabis laws & medical uses
Medical Marijuana in the Mid-Atlantic Region
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41035715/

On YouTube, a review of 500 videos found variable credibility
Misinformation About Medical Cannabis in YouTube Videos: Systematic Review
https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e76723
But the researchers specifically called out my videos as paragons of truth & justice.

The War on Drugs

In Venezuela, Maduro goes to the UN with an urgent call to halt US military aggression
https://venezuelanalysis.com/news/venezuela-calls-urgent-un-security-council-meeting-to-halt-us-military-aggression/
‘Cartels and caudillos: Is America's Venezuelan venture a pretext, or a prelude to war?’
https://theins.ru/en/amp/politics/285820
‘Is Venezuela Regime Change a Goal of Trump’s Drug-War Strikes?’
https://filtermag.org/venezuela-drug-war-trump-regime-chang/

‘Drug Smugglers Change Supply Routes to Evade U.S. Warships’
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/us/us-drug-trafficking-boats-caribbean.html
And in Texas, the border militarization is failing to stop modern drug smuggling
https://www.texasobserver.org/border-security-fentanyl-cartels-trump-mexico/

The US revoked visas of over 50 Mexican politicians for alleged cartel complicity
https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-revokes-visas-over-50-mexican-politicians-new-drug-war-front-2025-10-14/

In Mexico, on the military considerations of potential US military action (this is a well-done deep dive with an excellent history of US/Mexican relations)
Confronting Cartels: Military Considerations South of the Border
https://ctc.westpoint.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/CTC-SENTINEL-092025_cover-article.pdf

On the rise of drug trafficking via drones
High Crimes in Low Airspace: The Rise of Drones in Cross-Border Drug Trafficking
https://scholar.smu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4279&context=jalc

In North Africa, a report on smuggling of weapons & drugs by organized crime
Serious and Organised Crime’s Exploitation of Borders in North Africa
https://opendocs.ids.ac.uk/articles/report/Serious_and_Organised_Crime_s_Exploitation_of_Borders_in_North_Africa/30265540

In India, an analysis of the rise of narco-terrorism
Narco-Terrorism: A Persistent Menace
https://ijiamr.cmrie.org/docs/narco-terrorism-a-persistent-menace-LSSAUGZOSEBJ.pdf

NarcoTrace: social media software for detecting drug trafficking
Narcotrace: Advanced Detection System for Social Media-Based Drug Trafficking
https://www.scitepress.org/Papers/2025/136592/136592.pdf

I love cop drug math: In Sri Lanka, 1 kg of hashish was recovered from the suspect & the cops evaluated it at 8M+ Rupees (~91,000 USD, or 90 bucks a gram)
https://english.newsfirst.lk/2025/10/06/38-year-old-arrested-in-hirana-with-hashish-worth-over-rs-8-million
The UN stats puts the average price of hash in Sri Lanka at 6 bucks a gram.

️ Harm Reduction News ️

On Ozempic for substance use disorder by the great Maia Szalavitz
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/opinion/ozempic-addiction.html

A right-wing attack against Release, the UK's center of expertise on drugs & drug law
https://www.release.org.uk/blog/office-attacked

In Burlington, Vermont, the recovery center will stop giving out pipes because of funding cuts
https://www.wect.com/2025/10/09/we-are-absolutely-concerned-recovery-center-stop-providing-pipes-drug-users/

In Fargo, North Dakota, people are getting hit with felony drug paraphernalia charges for needles that were provided to them by the city
https://www.inforum.com/news/fargo/prevalence-of-paraphernalia-charges-show-conflict-between-harm-reduction-law-enforcement

In New Haven, Connecticut, without formal overdose prevention centers, people are forced to improvise to reverse overdoses
https://www.newhavenindependent.org/2025/10/10/without-formal-centers-users-improvise-to-reverse-overdoses/

Harm Reduction Research

A bibliometric analysis of drug policy papers
An analysis of scope, topics, methods and categories of drug policy research published in the International Journal of Drug Policy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41045723/

At two VA medical centers, on the implementation of syringe service programs
Implementation of Harm Reduction Syringe Services Programs at 2 Veterans Affairs Medical Centers
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41049591/

In rural British Columbia, on improving access to opioid agonist treatment via asynchronous virtual applications
The potential use of digital technologies to enhance opioid agonist treatment in rural and remote communities of British Columbia, Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41063180/

In Kentucky, on the barriers to syringe service programs by justice-involved individuals
Utilization of Kentucky Syringe Service Programs in a Justice-Involved Sample of People Who Inject Drugs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41050455/

For people in Manitoba living with HIV, on their barriers & recommendations for harm reduction services
Barriers and recommendations for harm reduction services among people living with HIV in Manitoba, Canada: a qualitative study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41059180/

In St. Louis, on the factors that build trust for mobile harm reduction
Understanding the role of street medicine in harm reduction: a case study of Street Medicine St. Louis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41053806/

Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives

On the rise of 7-OH, synthetic kratom known as 'gas station heroin'
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/synthetic-kratom-addiction-and-ban-california-21076514.php

For psychedelic harm reduction, a review of best practices
Harm reduction practises for users of psychedelic drugs: a scoping review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41044617/

The Plant & its Products

In the sacred groves of the Western Himalayas, an ethnobotanical survey found cannabis to have consistent vegetative growth with distinctive phases of flowering & seed dispersal throughout the year
Herb species richness, phenology and ethnobotanical practices in sacred groves of Western Himalaya: bridging ecology and tradition for conservation
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43538-025-00556-2

Growing & Extracting

In a large number of cultivars, a genetic analysis of how bioclimatic variables alter cannabis resilience, with implications for breeding
Dissecting Genotype-Environment interactions with functional implications for parental selection in Cannabis Breeding
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40652305/

In cannabis sex determination, a network analysis of genetic transcription
Unraveling Cross-Cellular Communication in Cannabis sativa Sex Determination: A Network Ontology Transcript Annotation (Nota) Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40654644/

For high light exposure increasing cannabinoid yield, an analysis of the up-regulated gene networks
High Light Intensity Enhances Cannabinoid Biosynthesis Through Concerted Gene Expression in Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Flowers
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2025.1687794/abstract

For the UV-B tolerance of cannabis, an analysis of the protective roles of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid synthase (the enzyme that produces THC acid)
A New UV-B Protectant in Plant: Insights Into THCAS and THCA's Role in UV-B Tolerance
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40653933/

For the rooting of cannabis stem cuttings, the effects of light, temperature & humidity
Light, Temperature, and Relative Humidity Influence the Adventitious Rooting of Cannabis Stem Cuttings
https://cdn.apub.kr/journalsite/sites/kshs/2025-043-04/N020250043/N020250043.pdf

In the Pacific Northwest, on the parasitic roundworms on hemp
Plant-parasitic nematodes on hemp in the Pacific Northwest of the United States
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40671069/

In outdoor cannabis plants in British Columbia, on a Fusarium & Globisporangium fungi complex causing root & crown rot
A root and crown rot pathogen complex of Fusarium and Globisporangium species affecting outdoor-grown cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) plants in British Columbia
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07060661.2025.2557486

In stored cannabis resin, modeling of the long-term cannabinoid transformations
Chemometric and predictive modeling of long term cannabinoid transformation in stored Cannabis sativa resin
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-03888-7

On the chemical fingerprinting of 18 Moroccan cannabis extracts & their anti-inflammatory activity
ATR-FTIR spectroscopic fingerprinting of Moroccan Cannabis sativa L. extracts prepared by ultrasound-assisted method: chemometric analysis and in vitro anti-inflammatory activities
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00217-025-04915-7

In 6 Moroccan cannabis cultivars, a morphological study of trichome variations
Morphological analysis of glandular trichomes in six Cannabis sativa L. cultivars collected from the Rif Mountains (Northern Morocco)
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/396119286_Morphological_analysis_of_glandular_trichomes_in_six_Cannabis_sativa_L_cultivars_collected_from_the_Rif_Mountains_Northern_Morocco

⚙️ Analyzing & Formulating ⚙️

A novel isolation method for THCA
Development of a novel isolation method for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid-A from cannabis suitable for forensic laboratories
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11419-025-00742-3

On using a LC MS MS assay for simultaneous detection of multiple cannabinoid metabolites
Performance of a LC-MS/MS assay for the multiplexed detection of cannabinoid metabolites
https://academic.oup.com/clinchem/article/71/Supplement_1/hvaf086.705/8270273

On creating liposomal formulations of CBD & THC via green processing
Optimisation of residual solvent-free liposomal formulations for cannabidiol and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol by green processing
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article/3324/1/040005/3366408/Optimisation-of-residual-solvent-free-liposomal

On creating a water-soluble CBD powder
Biocompatible Water-Soluble Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin/Cannabidiol Powder Formulated via Spray Drying
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsaenm.5c00550

On creating CBD nanomicelle formulations
Enhancing Cannabidiol Apparent Solubility and Oral Delivery: Self-assembled Nanomicelles of Amphiphilic Block Copolymer with γ-Polyglutamic Acid-grafted Cholesterol
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11095-025-03924-1

On encapsulating essential oils using hemp protein isolate-gallic acid conjugates
Encapsulation of Essential Oils Using Hemp Protein Isolate-Gallic Acid Conjugates: Characterization and Functional Evaluation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40647735/

Food, Nutrition & Hemp Seeds

On hemp roots, microgreens & leaves for human nutrition
The potential of hemp roots, microgreens and leaves for human nutrition
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-025-00319-2

A Ukrainian analysis of 11 products from hemp seeds
NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS FROM TECHNICAL HEMP SEEDS
http://tr.knute.edu.ua/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2036&catid=180&lang=en

In horses, a thesis project on the digestibility & acceptability of hemp seed meal
Protein Digestibility and Acceptability of Hemp Seed Meal in Horse Diets
https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/b123a598-e8a2-458a-841c-9b29888f0cb2/content

For hemp seed proteins, a simulation of their gastrointestinal digestion & antioxidant effects
Peptide profiling and antioxidant characterization of the simulated gastrointestinal digest of hemp seed proteins
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030881462503910X

For hemp seed meal proteins, on modifying them with high-pressure microfluidisation
Modification of physico-chemical, structural and functional properties of hemp seed meal proteins by high-pressure microfluidisation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213329125000656

On using E. coli bacteria to produce hemp seed globulin
Expression, Purification, Structural and Functional Characterization of Recombinant 11S Edestin in Escherichia coli, a typical seed storage globulin from Cannabis sativa L.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c06637

️ Industrial Uses & Fiber ️

For nutraceutical bottles, a life cycle assessment of polyethylene vs. hemp fiber composite
Life cycle assessment of nutraceutical bottles: comparison of high-density polyethylene vs. hemp fiber composite, recycled, or fossil polymer
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11367-025-02552-6

On creating flexible bio-based polyhydroxyurethane foams with hemp oil
Flexible polyhydroxyurethane foams from highly reactive formulations based on carbonated hemp oil
https://cea.hal.science/cea-05195066

On making furniture panels from hemp shive fiber
Structural Optimization of Sustainable Lightweight Hemp Shive-Fiber Panels
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/16/10/1541

For hemp fiber & its bio-composites, review of applications & life cycle
Hemp fiber and its bio-composites: a short review part II—applications and life cycle assessment
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42114-025-01414-x

For a hemp/kevlar composite with carbon nanotube reinforcement, analysis of its fatigue & wear resistance
Characterization of fatigue and wear properties of kevlar/hemp/CNT reinforced composites
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/3342/1/070017/3365255/Characterization-of-fatigue-and-wear-properties-of

On creating flax/hemp composites with different types of retting
Composites with Flax and Hemp Fibers Obtained Using Osmotic Degumming, Water-Retting, and Dew-Retting Processes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40649688/

For hemp fiber reinforced polymer composites, on a new cellulose-ester derivative
Synthesis of a new cellulose-ester derivative to improve fiber/matrix interface in hemp fiber reinforced polymer composites: Investigation of composite properties
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/00219983251387326

On polylactic acid hemp composites
Experimental investigation of 3D printed bio-resin functionalized Hemp-PLA biocomposites for mechanical, tribological and thermal behaviour
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2238785425025669

For hemp composite production, a thesis project on improvements using a novel catalyst & DMTA method
Optimization of the hemp composite production process with new catalyst and development of a DMTA method
https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2%3A2002405

For polylactic acid-hemp fiber biocomposites, on their lack of genotoxicity
Investigation of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity properties of modified hemp fiber filled PLA biocomposites
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40662396/

For hemp lime composites, a review of the last 20 years of research
Knowledge mapping for advancement of hemp-lime composite in the construction industry: a systematic literature review (from 2004 to 2024)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40712-025-00334-4

A Pennsylvania research report on hempcrete in single-family home construction
The Use of Hempcrete in Single-Family Home Construction
https://www.phrc.psu.edu/assets/docs/Publications/PHRC-Research-Report_The-Use-of-Hempcrete-in-Single-Family-Home-Construction.pdf

For Moroccan building with hemp-based insulation, a simulation of its improved energy economy & thermal performance
Energy, Economic, and Thermal Assessment of Insulating a Moroccan Building Envelope with a Biobased Material for Promoting Sustainability
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-89657-6_5

On improving geopolymer concrete with multilayered hemp & sisal fiber
Mechanical and durability performance of multilayered hemp–sisal fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete for sustainable construction
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352012425021435

THE CANNA-SCIENCE ARCHIVE

Public Health, Legalization Effects & Bioassays

In German cannabis users, only 7% spoke to their general practitioner about their use
What proportion of people who use cannabis in Germany have spoken with their general practitioner about their consumption? A repeated cross-sectional representative population survey
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-025-00329-0

For physician cannabis education, an editorial on it as a moral obligation
Cannabis Education—A Professional and Moral Obligation for Physicians
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2839746

In Canada, on the cannabis consumption patterns
Cannabis use patterns and comparison trends in Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40653443/

In California, a survey on their knowledge of cannabis laws
Knowledge and attitudes toward recreational cannabis legalization among California residents: a population-matched questionnaire about Proposition 64
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40652253/

For adverse events, on using AI to detect them from unstructured patient self-reports
Waldo: Automated discovery of adverse events from unstructured self reports
https://journals.plos.org/digitalhealth/article?id=10.1371/journal.pdig.0001011

In Nigerian cannabis smokers, they had lower blood levels of zinc & vitamins C & E but higher levels of copper
Marijuana Smoke Inhalation and Potential Micronutrient Deficiencies among Nigerian Smokers
https://www.tjpps.org/index.php/home/article/view/215

In countries where nicotine & cannabis are banned, a survey of their co-use
Co-use of Cannabis among nicotine users in a country where both Cannabis and e-cigarettes are banned
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14659891.2025.2568065

For tobacco & cannabis users, on the 6 different subgroups of use
Heterogeneity in Nicotine, Tobacco, and Cannabis Use Among U.S. Adolescents and Adults Aged 12–34 Years
https://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(25)00510-0/fulltext

In US adults & youth, a survey on their tobacco & cannabis product use... is hidden behind a paywall
Products involved in tobacco and cannabis co-use among US adults and youth, 2022–2023
https://tobaccocontrol.bmj.com/content/early/2025/09/30/tc-2025-059612.abstract

In hair samples, quantifying cannabinoids with a LC MS/MS
Detection and quantification of selected cannabinoids in hair samples by liquid-liquid extraction and LC-MS/MS
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0379073825003299

Adolescents & Young Adults

For treating adolescent cannabis use, a practitioner review of 24 randomized controlled trials
Review of Randomized Controlled Trials in Adolescent Cannabis Use Treatment: A Counseling Practitioner’s Summary
https://manifold.counseling.org/read/review-of-randomized-controlled-trials-in-adolescent-cannabis-use-treatment-a-counseling-practitioner-s-summary/section/3dcb3d66-1c0d-4c65-9fc8-8736473af8c8

For adolescents, a review of cannabis health impacts & prevention strategies
Cannabis Use in Adolescents
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41035729/

For young people cannabis vaping, a meta-analysis of risk factors
Cannabis Vaping in Youth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Risk Factors in Adolescents and Young Adults
https://www.jsad.com/doi/abs/10.15288/jsad.24-00464

In young adults using cannabis, self-reported use of higher potency cannabis flower was associated with more frequent consumption & greater cannabis use disorder scores
High potency cannabis flower use is associated with heavier consumption and risk for cannabis use disorder among young adults in California, United States
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/add.70118

In adolescents, a longitudinal study of the sociocognitive determinants of cannabis use
An integrated behavioral approach to understanding sociocognitive determinants and risk profiles of cannabis use in adolescents
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40654146/

In rural young adults, their subjective social status & emotional dysregulation may influence their cannabis use levels
Cannabis Use in Rural and Urban Young Adults: The Role of Subjective Social Status and Emotion Dysregulation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40750789/

In Chilean adolescents, on the predictors of problematic cannabis use
Predictors of problematic marijuana use among Chilean adolescents: interactions between parental involvement, peer marijuana use, and perceived severity
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14659891.2025.2568061

In Ohio youth, an analysis of their e-cigarette & cannabis dual use
Longitudinal analysis of e-cigarette and cannabis dual use in an Ohio sample of adolescents and young adults
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460325002059

In adolescent male rats taking THC, the antioxidant N acetylcysteine prevented cortical abnormalities
The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine prevents cortical neuropathological phenotypes caused by adolescent Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure in male rats
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-025-03580-4

Abstracts from the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

In youth with early psychosis, cannabis use may be a predictor of increased illness severity
Cannabis Use in Early Psychosis: A Path to Psychosis?
https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(25)00932-3/abstract

In adolescents at risk for psychotic disorders, this review found that the increased levels of THC in products is a risk
Cannabis Potency and Adolescent Mental Health: Understanding the Link to Psychosis
https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(25)01536-9/abstract

A workshop on treating youth cannabis use
Anyone Can Treat!: Learn How to Treat Youth Cannabis Use in Any Practice Setting
https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(25)01375-9/abstract

In Asian American adolescents, COVID-19 increased their use of alcohol & cannabis compared to other populations
Delineating Disparities in Psychiatric Care: The Impact of COVID-19 on Alcohol and Cannabis Use in Asian American Adolescents
https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(25)01641-7/abstract

The Brain & Neurological Disorders

In people with epilepsy, an automated workflow for monitoring the levels of CBD & its metabolites
Automated Workflow for High-Throughput LC–MS/MS Therapeutic Monitoring of Cannabidiol and 7-Hydroxy-cannabidiol in Patients with Epilepsy
https://www.proquest.com/openview/a8124bd3bf5ad2d1f7a2b4a94a792025/1

In rat brains, the distribution of CBD & its metabolites
Pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol in Rat Brain Tissue After Single-Dose Administration of Different Formulations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40649195/

In a neonatal rat model of loss of blood flow, CBD blocked the signaling by adenosine as well as the formation of heteromer (joined) complexes of the CB1 receptor & adenosine receptor to improve neuroprotective effects
Cannabidiol releases CB1R from A2AR repression in ischemic stroke
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0969996125003481

In a rat model of neonatal hypoxia (loss of blood flow), the combination of melatonin & URB447 (which activates the CB2 receptor & blocks the CB1 receptor) reduced brain injury & improved sensorimotor performances
Neuroprotective effect of the combination therapy of melatonin and URB447 after neonatal hypoxia-ischemia
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40671061/

For Parkinson's disease, this computer analysis of THC derivatives looked for the best at inhibiting monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) & catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) (both being enzymes that degrade dopamine)
Multifunctional Tetrahydrocannabinol Derivatives as Potential Antioxidant Neuroprotectors: In Silico Targeting of Monoamine Oxidase B and Catechol-O- Methyltransferase in Parkinson's Disease Therapy
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/396120948_Multifunctional_Tetrahydrocannabinol_Derivatives_as_Potential_Antioxidant_Neuroprotectors_In_Silico_Targeting_of_Monoamine_Oxidase_B_and_Catechol-O-_Methyltransferase_in_Parkinson%27s_Disease_Therapy
“Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities of THC30 and THC41 to MAO-B, and THC32¯ and THC49¯ to COMT.”

In neurons of the hippocampus (memory center of the brain), treatment with either endocannabinoids (EPEA or DHEA) or short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, butyrate) improved neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells) & reduced apoptosis (programmed cellular suicide) via the lowering of inflammatory factors & genetic effects
The dietary ligands, omega-3 fatty acid endocannabinoids and short-chain fatty acids prevent cytokine-induced reduction of human hippocampal neurogenesis and alter the expression of genes involved in neuroinflammation and neuroplasticity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40670679/

In brains, mapping the activity of the monoacylglycerol lipase enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG)
Spatially resolved mapping of monoacylglycerol lipase activity in the brain
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40672305/

Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder

For social cognition & emotion recognition, a review of 21 neuroimaging studies found variations in cannabis users
Decoding the neural correlates of social cognition and emotion recognition in cannabis users: A systematic review of neuroimaging studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40754147/

In people with recent-onset psychosis, those with past cannabis use had lower levels of extracellular free water in the brain (a surrogate marker of neuroinflammatory processes with a potential influence on antipsychotic medication efficacy)
Differential effect of cannabis use and antipsychotic medication on extracellular free-water in the brain of individuals with early psychosis and controls
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-025-03287-4

In people with treatment-resistant psychotic bipolar disorder, cannabis was associated with a shorter duration of hospitalization because of the boosted efficacy of the treatment clozapine
Concurrent Abuse of Cannabis Is Associated with a Shorter Duration of Hospitalization in Treatment-Resistant Psychotic Bipolar Inpatients Treated with Clozapine
https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/123640133/01.adt.0000210703.70788.6520250707-1-ls1qg6-libre.pdf

In US veterans, past-month cannabis use frequency was associated with increased psychological distress
Cannabis Use, Psychological Distress, and Suicidal Ideation Among U.S. Veterans
https://surface.syr.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=vos
As always, it could be that the people in more trouble were the ones more likely to be using cannabis. But it could be going the other way. And it's probably both.

For cannabis cue reactivity & gendered differences, brain scans of the distinctive reactions
Unravelling gender differences in cannabis cue-reactivity in individuals who use cannabis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584625002696

In inhibitory control tasks, cannabis users had no significant differences in performance or heart activity
No differences in neural responses or performance during cannabis cue-specific inhibitory control tasks between recreational cannabis users and non-users: Insights from fNIRS
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/02698811251358814

For sedentary people, smoking initiation may be a mediator for cannabis use disorder
Smoking initiation as a mediator: investigating the causal relationship between sedentary lifestyles and cannabis use disorder through Mendelian randomization
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40629896/

For reducing cannabis use with brief interventions, a review of 17 trials found that brief drug interventions yielded no significant short-term reductions in cannabis use or consumption levels
Brief Drug Interventions Delivered in General Medical Settings: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Cannabis Use Outcomes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40627282/

In people with cannabis use disorder, a brief mindfulness-based intervention did not change cannabis frequency, quantity or craving
Brief mindfulness intervention for adults with cannabis use disorder: A Randomised Clinical Trial
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037687162500362X

For reducing cannabis use, a mathematical modeling of an optimal control strategy
Exploring the Effectiveness of an Optimal Control Model for Marijuana Consumption
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/394217884_Exploring_the_Effectiveness_of_an_Optimal_Control_Model_for_Marijuana_Consumption

For the Stop-Cannabis app, on the profiles of the users
Motives for Cannabis Use and Readiness to Change Among Users of the “Stop-Cannabis” Mobile App: Cluster Analysis
https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70849

On a scale for measuring cannabis attention & affect motives, with an eye to those using it for their ADHD
Development and Initial Validation of the Cannabis Attention and Affect Motives Scale
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2025.2565420

For cannabis-induced mental & behavioral disorders, an analysis of a diagnostic framework & symptoms
Exploratory Analysis on the Concept of Cannabis Induced Mental and Behavioral Disorder
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/394141919_Exploratory_Analysis_on_the_Concept_of_Cannabis_Induced_Mental_and_Behavioral_Disorder

For tobacco & cannabis co-users, an analysis of the effects on their rest-activity rhythms
Rest-activity rhythms in individuals who separately or concomitantly use cannabis and cigarettes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625003606

For cognitive fatigue in cannabis users, this thesis project found (nonsignificant) opposing neural adaptation patterns compared to non-users
Neural Correlates of Cognitive Fatigue in Regular Cannabis Users and Non-users: A Pilot fNIRS Study
https://scholars.wlu.ca/etd/2848/

In mice with no NAPE PLD (the enzyme that synthesizes anandamide), they had more anxiety-like behaviors & a dysregulated HPA axis, as well as in the males, higher levels of corticosterone
Genetic deletion of NAPE-PLD alters stress responsiveness and HPA-axis functionality in a context-dependent manner in mice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028390825004101

In a rat model of fear learning & extinction, a thesis project on the sex-dependent effects of endocannabinoid signaling
Sex-specific effects of endocannabinoid action on cued fear conditioning and extinction
https://repository.library.northeastern.edu/files/neu:gm80mt271/fulltext.pdf

Abstracts from the World Congress of Psychiatric Genetics

From a genomic study of cannabis users, lifetime cannabis use was correlated with traits related to openness to experience & risk-taking, including substance use & sexual behaviors
The genetics of cannabis lifetime use
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02255-4
(This one isn’t from the Congress, but it fit best here)

For cannabis users, the genome-wide association studies found 3 SNPs (single letter genetic variations) & relations to various psycho-behavioral traits
THE INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS CONSORTIUM: NEW FINDINGS FROM THE LARGEST GWASS ON EVER USE AND FREQUENCY OF USE
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924977X25002822

Using genetic variants, results showed cannabis to have a potentially causal effect on schizophrenia
CAUSAL EFFECTS OF CANNABIS USE ON DEPRESSION AND PSYCHOSIS: INTEGRATING GENETIC AND LONGITUDINAL METHODS
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924977X25004511

For cannabis use disorder & schizophrenia, they have common underlying genetic mechanisms
“SLICING-AND-DICING” THE ALL OF US RESEARCH PROGRAM TO INTERROGATE THE POLYGENIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CANNABIS USE AND SCHIZOPHRENIA
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924977X25005309

In adolescents with a genetic predisposition to externalizing behaviors, they are more likely to use nicotine & cannabis earlier
GENETIC LIABILITY TO EXTERNALIZING PREDICTS ADOLESCENT NICOTINE AND CANNABIS USE AND AGE OF ONSET IN THE ADOLESCENT BRAIN COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT (ABCD) STUDY
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924977X25004262

Reproduction & Hormones

For prenatal co-exposure to cannabis & insecticides, there were altered child neurobehaviors with gendered differences
Associations of prenatal tobacco and insecticide co-exposures with neurobehavioral responses among children born to pregnant women exposed to cannabis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40754207/

In infants with alcohol & cannabis prenatal exposure, they had an increased risk of small for gestational age
Adverse birth outcomes in alcohol-exposed pregnancies with or without tobacco and cannabis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091743525002117

On maternal cannabis use, interviews about the differences in treatment after disclosure
“I’m Treated Way Differently”: The Intersectional Risk Environment of Maternal Cannabis Use
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2025.2568153

For cannabis use among pregnant & nonpregnant women, a national survey on cannabis use rates
Cannabis Use Among Pregnant and Nonpregnant Women of Childbearing Age: Findings From the 2021-2023 National Survey of Drug Use and Health
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40614880/

For the risks of cannabis & CBD during pregnancy, a survey on people's beliefs
Perception of Risks of Cannabis and Cannabidiol Use during Pregnancy: A Multi-Methods Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40661844/

In a rat model of the vascular transformations of the uterus necessary for early pregnancy, on the importance of anandamide tone for proper vascular adaptations via COX-2
Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase leads to uterine vascular defects and decreased fertility in pregnant rats
https://rep.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/rep/aop/REP-24-0481/REP-24-0481.xml

Pain, Musculoskeletal, Inflammation & Surgeries

For postural control stability, this thesis project found that cannabis users had significant differences
Effects of Chronic Marijuana Use on Postural Control During Quiet Standing
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1407&context=theses

For people having cancer surgery, public health data showed that those who lived in states with medical cannabis laws had reduced use of opioids but an increased rate of all-cause adverse hospital events
Medical marijuana policies, opioid prescriptions, and adverse events among patients undergoing cancer resection surgery
https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/cncr.70107

In people with chronic pain, this thesis project found opioid use to be the predominant pattern driven by cognitive-affective mechanisms, with cannabis & co-use appearing to be more transient & less systematically predicted by risk factors
Refocusing Attention on Opioid Use in Patients with Chronic Pain: A Predictive Latent Growth Analysis of Cannabis & Opioid Co-Use
https://sciety.org/articles/activity/10.31234/osf.io/34vr7_v1

For acute & chronic pain, a review of cannabinoids
Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Treating Pain: What Are the Data?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40657749/

In a mouse model of inflammation, suppressing the endocannabinoid transporter α/β-hydrolase domain-containing-6 (ABHD6) lowered the inflammatory response via PPAR signaling (which regulates genetic transcription) & macrophages (large immune cells)
ABHD6 suppression attenuates pro-inflammatory responses in mice and promotes anti-inflammatory polarization of macrophages during endotoxin stress
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1388198125001027

For osteoarthritis, a review on the formulation of PEA, Cissus quadrangularis (veldt grape), Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) & propolis
A NOVEL TARGETED FORMULATION FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS: EXPLORING SYNERGISTIC BENEFITS OF CISSUS QUADRANGULARIS, BOSWELLIA SERRATA, PROPOLIS AND PALMITOYLETHANOLAMIDE
https://prospects.wum.edu.pl/index.php/pps/article/view/479

❤️ The Heart & Blood ❤️

For the cardiovascular risks of cannabis, a commentary on the limitations of diagnostic coding by friend of the newsletter Dr. Jamie Corroon
Limitations of Diagnostic Codes in Assessing Cannabis-Related Cardiovascular Risk
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40651314/
And a reply clarifying the diagnostic criteria & comorbidity handling
Reply: Clarifying Diagnostic Coding and Comorbidities in Assessing Cannabis-Related Cardiovascular Risk
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40651318/
And a letter concerning the same study
Cannabis Use and Cardiovascular Risk Among Healthy Young Adults: Cause or Confounding?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40664008/

In young adults who smoke cannabis & nicotine, they had alterations in ventricular repolarization (electrical reset of the heart ventricles after contraction), but not in people smoking just cannabis
Ventricular Repolarization in Healthy Young Adults Who Use Combusted Cannabis: A Cross-Sectional Parallel Group Comparison Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40673506/

In a zebrafish model of blood clotting, hemp seed peptides reduced clotting & enhanced blood flow velocity & blood vessel diameters via VEGFR1 & caspase 3 pathways
Anti‐Thrombotic Effect of Hemp Seed Peptides in Zebrafish by Dual Regulation of vegfr1 Signaling and Caspase‐3‐Mediated Apoptosis
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/fsn3.70756

In heart cells experiencing a lipid overload, CBG diminished the accumulation of diacylglycerols, lowered fatty acid transporters & reduced lipid saturation
Short-Term Incubation of H9c2 Cardiomyocytes with Cannabigerol Attenuates Diacylglycerol Accumulation in Lipid Overload Conditions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40643519/

In human arteries, the ability of capsaicin to relax them is mediated by the CB1 receptors, with a potential modulating role by the TRPV1 vanilloid channels, with gendered differences
Functional crosstalk between the vanilloid and endocannabinoid systems in modulating vascular tone: implications for (neuro)vascular disorder therapy
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s10194-025-02085-1

️ The Guts, Metabolism & the Microbiome ️

For obesity in US male adolescents, cannabis use was not associated with obesity
Association between Marijuana use and obesity in a population of male adolescents in the United States in 2023
https://ojs.southfloridapublishing.com/ojs/index.php/jdev/article/view/5835

A review of cyclic vomiting versus cannabinoid hyperemesis syndromes
Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome and Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
https://www.gastro.theclinics.com/article/S0889-8553(25)00031-7/abstract

The Immune System & Microbial

In immune cells, a CBD-rich cannabis extract significantly inhibited T-cell activation, lowered inflammation & suppressed cytotoxic molecule expression
Immunomodulatory Effects of a High-CBD Cannabis Extract: A Comparative Analysis with Conventional Therapies for Oral Lichen Planus and Graft-Versus Host Disease
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/62c31fa538cff3b9d9745474fafd3f6f/download_pub

For cannabinoids as antimicrobial agents, an editorial on cannabis as a sustainable source
Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis as a Sustainable Antimicrobial Approach: What to Foreknow?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40635210/

For drug-resistant bacteria, an analysis of the targets used by the cannabinoids
Exploring the Potential of Phytocannabinoids Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40647911/

For antimicrobial effects, on using CBD nano lipid carriers to lower formation of biofilms (aggregation of microbes for protective effects)
Nanostructured lipid carriers loaded with cannabidiol: A novel antibiofilm approach
https://athena.ess.fernandopessoa.pt/index.php/athena/article/view/84

In macrophages (large immune cells that eat invaders), activating the CB2 receptor reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines
The cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist HU308 reduces cytokine secretion in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/23523689251384468

The Genitourinary System

For potential kidney donors, prior cannabis use can affect approval outcomes
Associations of Marijuana Use History with Progression from Living Donor Candidate Evaluation to Approval: Analysis of the US SRTR Living Donor Collective
https://www.amjtransplant.org/article/S1600-6135(25)00535-0/pdf

️ The Skin & Topicals ️

In burn patients, the cannabis users had longer ICU stays & higher rates of organ failure, reoperations, ventilator-associated pneumonia & venothromboembolic events (blood clots in the veins)
Cannabis Use and Its Association with Complications and Outcomes in Burn Patients: Insights from the National Trauma Data Bank
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40667862/

In a rabbit skin model, on a topical CBD anesthetic gel prototype
Biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory effects of Thai cannabidiol-containing topical anesthetic gel prototype in a dermal irritation test
https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3903&context=tjvm

️ Cancer & Chemotherapy ️

For head & neck cancer, a review of 19 studies found a potential link to cannabis use, but also among survivors, an association with reduced pain, improved appetite, enhanced mental health, and better overall quality of life
Cannabis use and head and neck cancer: a narrative review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39115834/

In cancer survivors, a survey of their attitudes towards cannabis
Cannabis Stigma and Symptom Management Considerations in Cancer Survivors: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Patient Perspectives
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-7244150/v1

For people with cancer using nutrition therapy & medical cannabis, a thesis surveying physicians on their perceptions
Physician’s Perceptions on the Use of Medical Nutrition Therapy and Medical Cannabis to Support Positive Health Outcomes During Cancer Treatment
https://www.proquest.com/openview/f336372d43a1be886ad7df0ad8ed13e6/1

In glioma cells(the most aggressive brain cancer), radiotherapy plus Sativex (1:1 THC:CBD) had synergistic anti-tumor effects
THE COMBINATION OF CANNABINOIDS AND RADIOTHERAPY DEMONSTRATES STRONG ANTI-TUMOR EFFECTS ON HUMAN GLIOMA CELLS
https://academic.oup.com/neuro-oncology/article/27/Supplement_3/iii177/8271942

In glioblastomas (the most aggressive brain cancer), on the effects of cannabinoids on their epigenetics & oxidative stress
Epigenetic influence of cannabinoids in glioblastoma
https://academic.oup.com/neuro-oncology/article/27/Supplement_3/iii168/8272473

In the differentiation of brain cancer cells, the synthetic cannabinoid THJ-2201 disrupted their mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
The synthetic cannabinoid THJ-2201 modulates mitochondrial activity and enhances mitochondrial recruitment to newly-forming neurites during neurodifferentiation of NG108-15 cells
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00204-025-04217-7

For CBD's anti-tumor activity, improving efficacy with platinum IV complexes for toxicity of the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
New Multifunctional Platinum (IV) Complexes Incorporating Cannabidiol Active Moieties Elicit Mitochondrial Damage and Synergistically Boost Antitumor Efficacy
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/aoc.70416

In cancer stem cells & cancer-associated fibroblasts, activation of the CB1 receptor reduced viability & the potential for transformation
195eP CB1 receptor agonist ACPA suppresses the plasticity and stemness of non-small cell lung cancer stem cells and activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts
https://www.esmoopen.com/article/S2059-7029(25)01660-6/fulltext

On salivary gland tumors & cannabis use, something happens behind a paywall...
Cannabis Use and Benign Salivary Gland Neoplasms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40674073/

Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids

In people using synthetic cannabinoid papers, on the disruptions to their neural biomarkers of neuroplasticity & oxidative stress balance
Serum zonulin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and oxidative stress levels in individuals using paper (a4) impregnated with synthetic cannabinoids
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1693270/abstract

In humans, identifying the dozens of metabolites from the synthetic cannabinoids ADMB-3TMS-PrINACA & Cumyl-3TMS-PrINACA
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists containing silicon: exploring the metabolic pathways of ADMB- and Cumyl-3TMS-PrINACA in human urine specimens and post mortem material compared to in vitro and in silico data
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00204-025-04204-y

For synthetic cannabinoids, a thesis project modeling the toxicity from burning them
Pyrolysis Products of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Chemical Profiling and Early In Vitro Neurotoxicity Assessment
https://repositorio-aberto.up.pt/handle/10216/169469

In rats taking HHC, on the behavioral effects, toxicity & how it moves through their body
Hexahydrocannabinol: pharmacokinetics, systemic toxicity, and acute behavioral effects in Wistar rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40643195/

In a zebrafish model of development, an analysis of the toxicity of the synthetic cannabinoid ADB FUBINACA
Toxicological effects of ADB-FUBINACA on early zebrafish development: An analysis utilizing metabolomics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0147651325011273

Using human liver cells & rat models, on the metabolites generated from 26 different synthetic cannabinoids
Systematic Characterization of In Vitro and In Vivo Metabolic Pathways and Identification of Novel Biomarkers of 26 Synthetic Cannabinoids
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40649201/

Biochemical Discoveries & Research Tools

On the human serotonin 5 HT1A receptor, an analysis of their modulation by CBD, CBG, CBGA, CBDA, THCV & THCVA
In silico insights on the binding site and function of cannabinoids and cannabinoid acids on human 5-HT1A receptor
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1093326325002463

On the binding & orphan status of GPR18, GPR55 & GPR119 (which may one day be known as endocannabinoid receptors, but not today)
GPR18, GPR55 and GPR119 in GtoPdb v.2025.3
https://journals.ed.ac.uk/gtopdb-cite/article/view/11750

On the enzymatic turnover & regulation of endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoid turnover in GtoPdb v.2025.3
https://journals.ed.ac.uk/gtopdb-cite/article/view/11817

For cannabinoid receptor interacting protein 1A (CRIP1A - a regulatory binding protein of the CB1 receptor), this thesis project analyzed its modulations of the CB1 receptor
CANNABINOID RECEPTOR INTERACTING PROTEIN 1A (CRIP1A): TRANSLOCATION AND INTERACTION PARTNERS
https://wakespace.lib.wfu.edu/handle/10339/111007

For engineering fungi to produce cannabinoids, a review of technological advancements
Biotechnological Advancements Enabling Cannabinoid Biosynthesis in Engineered Fungi: A Mini Review
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/fungal-biology/articles/10.3389/ffunb.2025.1660661/abstract

Thanks.
- lex

PS: For your boogie-woogie stride piano blues, here’s the great Albert Ammons & his friend Lux Lewis from their 1939 session released as the album ‘First Day’. Born in Chicago in 1907, Ammons learned piano from his parents & began playing the blues at 12 years old. At 17, he met his buddy Meade “Lux” Lewis at the cab company where they both worked & they practiced their skills on the piano at the depot. They played on the South Side & after getting known for their boogie-woogie style with the hits ‘Boogie-Woogie Stomp’ & ‘Swanee River Boogie’, they moved to New York City. After lighting up Carnegie Hall in 1938 at the Spirituals to Swing concert (often known as the start of the boogie-woogie craze), Ammons cut some of the first ever tracks for the new & now revered Blue Note label.
By the way, as an amateur historian of animation, I’m fascinated to see that the great Norm McLaren made an animated short of Ammons’ music called ‘Boogie Doodle’ (relatedly, McLaren’s ‘A Phantasy of Color’ of the Oscar Peterson Trio jiving is one of the most exquisite pieces of synesthesia ever produced). Hooking up with a variety of performers & a variety of groups during the ‘30s, Ammons had to take a pause in 1941 after accidentally severing a fingertip while making a sandwich. But by the mid-40s, he was back recording & performed a duet with Lux for the Lena Horne jazz film “Boogie Woogie Dream” (it’s only 13 minutes long & you should watch it for the lovely young Lena as well as seeing Lux & Albert in action). Unfortunately, Ammons died of a heart attack at 42 years old, just months after a triumphant performance at President Truman's 1949 inauguration.

This newsletter is the backbone of my work & I hope it brings you a measure of value. If so, please consider upgrading to a paid subscription & support my sharing all of the new cannabinoid science each week.