These "fake cannabis flowers" are now widespread on the black market. Several sick people have mistakenly purchased such products for self-treatment and reported their negative experiences to us. Users from the cannabis community are also warning against these adulterated cannabis products – which may look like hashish or marijuana, but otherwise have nothing to do with cannabis.
These products are extremely dangerous. For people with pre-existing health conditions, the effects can be life-threatening. Synthetic drugs often produce an extremely potent high. This is particularly dangerous for those with fragile health. These added substances have serious health side effects. They can trigger panic attacks or seizures, among other things. Use can even lead to unconsciousness or total blackouts.
The authorities are also issuing urgent warnings
On drug information websites like "Eve and Rave," warnings now include not only pills and powders but also a large number of cannabis-like substances. These are marked with "Red" and "Warning." This situation is a consequence of decades of cannabis prohibition and flawed drug policies. The black market, decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and Swiss law are perfectly suited to this new practice, as CBD flowers are legal and new synthetic drugs are also legal until they are banned. Sensible cannabis regulation is urgently needed to prevent the practice of manipulation. Most consumers do not want these products.
Here you will find information on where you can have your cannabis products tested if you are unsure.
Lack of cannabis regulation promotes dangerous drugs
The worst part is that young consumers are becoming familiar with these synthetic drugs. Some are now specifically seeking this high and turning away from THC-containing cannabis. These products are far more dangerous. They are highly addictive and can cause serious long-term damage. Every politician who opposes cannabis regulation is accepting deaths, encouraging the development of new trendy drugs, and hindering the protection of young people.
Illegal DIY construction is the only safe solution
The situation is extremely difficult for cannabis patients at the moment. Demand for cannabis exceeds supply. This affects not only the price but also the quality. Without knowing your sources, you have to be very careful. For this reason, many patients are growing their own cannabis medication. Although this is illegal and can lead to serious problems, they are taking the risk. It is currently the only way to ensure the quality of the medicine.
How should I behave as a patient?
The situation won't change quickly. The pandemic will continue to affect supply and demand. This June, the Federal Council amended the Narcotics Act. In the future, it will be possible to obtain a prescription for cannabis from a doctor. However, it will certainly take another two years for this to be implemented. This is very frustrating, but until then, sick people will have to help themselves if they want to use cannabis for medicinal purposes.
It is not yet known which cannabis-based medications will be available on the market and how expensive they will be. It is uncertain whether doctors will be more willing to prescribe cannabis. The necessary expertise hasn't suddenly appeared. It is also unclear whether health insurance companies will be required to cover the costs, and if so, for which diagnoses. MEDCAN still has many unanswered questions regarding the new law.
MEDCAN continues to work tirelessly
More and more cannabis patients are contacting the Association , sharing their stories, and becoming members. This motivates us every day to continue our fight and raise awareness. But official bodies, medical professionals, other patient association , the media, and politicians have also taken notice of us and are learning about this medicinal plant. The interest is significant. Together as an Association , cannabis patients are now being recognized. Furthermore, the Federal Office of Public Health is asking MEDCAN to provide its perspective on all political processes related to the new medical cannabis law. This is very encouraging.
Our voice is finally being heard. Whether our experiences and advice will be taken into account and implemented remains to be seen.
