As more and more states legalize marijuana, cannabis companies are coming under pressure to limit the strength of their products amid growing concerns about the public health consequences. The steadily rising levels of THC—the intoxicating component of pot—in such products has led to an alarming spike in cases of psychotic episodes among young people, and can impair brain development, studies show. Lawmakers in legal marijuana states including Colorado and Washington are now calling for limits on THC and closer scrutiny of marijuana businesses and what they sell. Supporters say this will protect consumers, especially kids and young adults. But the $20 billion cannabis industry is vehemently fighting back any attempt to impose THC curbs, even as marijuana concentrates often have potency levels of up to 80 percent or more (Vermont is the only state with such limits, while New York has a higher tax).
Meanwhile, New York City cab drivers will no longer be tested for cannabis, now that the state has legalized marijuana. It’s still illegal to drive while high, but the lack of a testing requirement means any driver can smoke weed and get behind the wheel.
And finally, a new study shows promising results for using psychedelic drugs such as MDMA to treat PTSD. The illegal drug, known as Ecstasy, was shown to bring relief to those suffering from PTSD when paired with talk therapy. Mental health experts say the research could pave the way for further studies into the potential of MDMA and similar drugs to treat a wide range of conditions—including substance abuse, depression and social anxiety in autistic adults.