International
USA: FDA report on cannabis rescheduling analyzed posts by cannabis users on social media

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)carried out an exhaustive scientific analysis of cannabis, which led to a recommendation to reclassify the plant in the controlled substances list in the United States. This review process involved not only a meticulous analysis of scientific research but also research into the therapeutic effects of cannabis reported by consumers on various platforms and social media.
In the report of FY 2023 Drug Safety Priorities, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) of the FDA described in detail the initiatives taken to address drug safety concerns, including the evaluation of cannabis. This analysis resulted from a 2022 directive from President Joe Biden.
CDER carried out an exhaustive analysis that spanned multiple data sources to perform an eight-factor analysis (8FA). The findings of this analysis formed the basis for the FDA's recommendation to Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) toward moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
Integration of information on social networks
As part of the assessment process, the CDER's Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology (OSE) carried out an exhaustive analysis of epidemiological and pharmacovigilance data sources. This information was crucial in providing valuable insights into the therapeutic applications of cannabis.
Additionally, the FDA's efforts have extended to understanding public perceptions across social media platforms. A dedicated team of social scientists spent six months meticulously analyzing online conversations about cannabis. This qualitative analysis provided valuable insights into consumers' experiences, including its effectiveness for therapeutic purposes such as anorexia, anxiety, nausea and pain.
Collaborative and review efforts underway
After analysis, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from the USA submitted a comprehensive investigative dossier to the DEA, supporting the recommendation to reclassify cannabis. The DEA is currently conducting its own analysis before making a final decision.
Although several months have passed since the FDA's recommendation, the timeline for a final decision remains uncertain. This uncertainty has raised calls from various interested parties, including legislators and activist groups, for transparency and speed in the decision-making process.
The issue of cannabis reclassification has sparked diverse opinions and advocacy efforts from lawmakers and public figures across the political spectrum. While some advocate the reclassification or even complete removal of the CSA, others oppose the measure, citing concerns about public safety and regulatory standards.
Potential impact and policy implications
Recent surveys indicate the potential impact of cannabis reclassification on consumer behavior and political dynamics. The prospect of reclassification under the Biden administration has drawn attention, with interested parties closely monitoring developments and participating in discussions about broader cannabis policy reform.
The scientific review and FDA recommendation for the reclassification of cannabis constitute significant milestones in drug policy discourse. While interested parties await the DEA's final decision, the debate surrounding the classification of cannabis continues to evolve, reflecting society's changing attitudes and priorities.
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[Disclaimer: Please note that this text was originally written in Portuguese and is translated into English and other languages using an automatic translator. Some words may differ from the original and typos or errors may occur in other languages.]____________________________________________________________________________________________________
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With a professional background in CAD technical drawing (2D and 3D), João Xabregas is an activist and advocate for all uses and applications of cannabis. He discovered and entered the world of cannabis during his youth, where he developed a special interest in the cultivation of the plant, which led him on a journey of self-learning through the world of cannabis that continues to this day. His adventures linked to cannabis cultivation began with the same goal as many others: to be able to guarantee the quality and eliminate any possible risks to his health of what he consumed, as well as to avoid any type of dependence on the illicit market. However, he quickly began to view the world of cannabis and everything related to it with a very different perspective. He admits the enormous passion he has for the most persecuted plant in the world and about which he is always willing to write and have a good conversation.
