Understanding the Effects of CBD on Driving
Researchers at West Virginia University (WVU) are embarking on an extensive five-year study to investigate how cannabidiol (CBD) consumption affects driving performance, with a focus on potential differences between men and women. Funded by a substantial $2.2 million grant from the National Institute of Drug Abuse, this study aims to build on a smaller pilot trial conducted in 2021, which involved 30 participants and explored CBD’s impact through a driving simulation.
The earlier study did not find statistically significant differences in driving performance between those who consumed CBD and those who received a placebo. However, it did reveal some concerning trends: participants taking CBD experienced slightly more collisions and had slower brake reaction times. Toni Rudisill, an assistant professor at WVU, expressed the need for further exploration of these findings, stating, “We want to dive into that more to see if that relationship truly exists.” With a larger sample size of 300 participants, the current study hopes to provide more definitive insights.
What the Study Entails
The new research will involve baseline assessments, including cognitive and psychomotor tests, before participants engage in practice runs on a driving simulator. Following this, participants will be administered either a placebo, 150 mg, or 300 mg of CBD, after which they will complete another round of driving simulations. Rudisill noted, “They will hang out with us for two hours, eat breakfast, and go for a longer drive on the simulator.” This comprehensive approach aims to assess the effects of CBD on driving more accurately.
The motivation for this research stems from the increasing accessibility of CBD products and the limited knowledge surrounding their effects on individuals. With some reported side effects including sedation and drowsiness, understanding how CBD influences driving performance is essential for public safety.
CBD Use Among Cystic Fibrosis Patients
In a separate study, researchers have turned their attention to the prevalence of CBD use among patients with cystic fibrosis. This two-part study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to inquire about CBD usage to better advise their patients and prevent potential drug interactions. Conducted at Indiana University, the study found that 14.2% of patients reported previous cannabis use, while 15% acknowledged current use.
Interestingly, a prospective survey of 96 patients revealed that 11.5% were current CBD users, with many citing reasons such as sleep, anxiety, and pain relief as their motivations for using the product. Despite the high levels of CBD use among patients, a survey of 282 cystic fibrosis clinicians indicated that 72% felt unprepared to address questions regarding CBD. The authors of the study emphasized the importance of clinicians asking about CBD use and the need for ongoing research into potential drug interactions.
New Insights on Fusarium Disease Management
Meanwhile, the University of Kentucky has released findings on Fusarium head blight (FHB), a disease threatening hemp crops. This research underscores the significant risks posed by FHB, which can lead to yield losses and contamination with harmful mycotoxins. The study highlights that infections can begin months before symptoms appear, and the same Fusarium species affecting hemp also impact other crops like wheat and barley.
Nicole Gauthier, a hemp extension plant pathologist, emphasized the importance of ensuring that hemp crops are free from harmful mycotoxins, especially as hemp becomes more widely used in animal feed. Future goals for the research team include developing disease-resistant hemp cultivars and fungicides to combat this pressing issue.
Chronic Pain Patients vs. Physicians: A Divide on Cannabis Policies
A recent survey examining attitudes toward medical cannabis policies among chronic pain patients and physicians revealed a notable disparity. Adults with chronic pain expressed greater support for policies expanding medical cannabis access compared to physicians. This survey, which included over 1,600 patients and 1,000 physicians, highlighted that patients were more in favor of federal legalization and insurance coverage for cannabis treatment.
As the conversation around cannabis continues to evolve, the study’s findings suggest a growing need for education and guidance for healthcare providers regarding cannabis use for chronic pain. The authors of the study noted that training requirements for medical students and physicians on cannabis use could bridge the gap between patient needs and physician preparedness.
Innovations in Cannabis Processing
Lastly, Cannatrol, a cannabis processing technology company, has released findings from studies that examine the impact of their drying systems on cannabis quality. Their research indicates that their Cool Cure drying system achieves 16% higher terpene retention compared to traditional methods, which could significantly enhance the quality and flavor of cannabis products.
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, these studies provide valuable insights into the effects of CBD on health and safety, the challenges faced by patients and clinicians, and the importance of research in improving cannabis cultivation and processing techniques.
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