From cultivators and extractors to testing labs and dispensaries, navigating insurance claims in the cannabis industry is one of the most complex challenges the cannabis industry faces, right along with filing federal tax returns to securing loans, financing, and managing payroll, as well as providing employee benefits.
These businesses also face major challenges with payment options for clients and patients, as credit card companies are still apprehensive about supporting cannabis companies since cannabis is still federally illegal. However, to date, forty-two states have legalized the highly recognized healing plant.
Federal tax laws, according to The National Cannabis Association, present challenges for the industry because, “Originally intended to apply to illegal drug dealers when first enacted in 1982, the 280E provision is now primarily applied to medical and adult-use cannabis dispensaries operating legally under state law.
The unintended consequences of 280E enforcement on legal businesses threatens the viability of state-licensed cannabis providers, leads to the loss of valuable jobs and tax revenues, and limits businesses ability to grow and invest in their communities. The unfair application of the tax code on legal businesses is also hampering the industry’s ability to effectively compete with illegal drug dealers, who generally do not file or pay taxes at all,”.
I would assume that negative information around the healing properties of cannabis in comparison to Big Pharma prescription drugs has been a challenge as well. Communicating its validity as a viable, holistic alternative to chemicals with adverse side effects presents enormous challenges.
For example, should someone wish to treat their anxiety with cannabis, they must be able to speak freely with their health care provider to prevent complications such as serotonin syndrome. Let’s see what the experts have to say.
*Note: All content within this article is meant for informational purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological advice or support. Seek immediate and appropriate care from a healthcare professional should you or a trusted loved one deem it necessary.
(Photo Credit: The Mercury News)
What is serotonin syndrome
Serotonin toxicity results from medications that increase serotonin levels in the body: medications such as those for pain and antidepressants, some herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, and some over-the-counter drugs. When taken together, they increase the risk of serotonin toxicity.
The Mayo Clinic shares that, “Serotonin syndrome can occur when you increase the dose of certain medications or start taking a new drug. It’s most often caused by combining medications that contain serotonin, such as a migraine medication and an antidepressant. Some illicit drugs and dietary supplements are associated with serotonin syndrome.
Milder forms of serotonin syndrome may go away within a day or two of stopping the medications that cause symptoms and, sometimes, after taking drugs that block serotonin,”.
I much prefer the healthy, organic, or homeopathic route to some of my ailments versus using pain medication, so I am prone to serotonin withdrawal syndrome.
However, it is imperative that I fully disclose ALL of my medicinal solutions to my healthcare providers, including supplements, certain massage practices, essential oils, acupuncture, cannabis, chiropractic remedies, etc., or I am at risk of developing this potentially dangerous syndrome.
In fact, I found that taking both St. John’s Wort and Lyrica concurrently places me in a high-risk category for developing serotonin withdrawal syndrome. Furthermore, when I take Zrytek, an antihistamine, it lowers its effectiveness and increases the risk of developing chronic sinus infections.
Patients with serotonin toxicity may experience other symptoms, including but not limited to:
- Confusion
- Restlessness
- Shivering
- Increased heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Sweating
- Dilated pupils
- Muscle rigidity
- Seizures
- Coma or death in severe cases
Central nervous system medicines such as anti-anxiety, antipsychotics, antidepressants, amphetamines, and opioids have effects influenced by massage. Depending on the type of massage, it may either increase or decrease the effectiveness of these medications. Abnormal levels of serotonin have been linked to many mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, which, coincidentally, addicts and alcoholics are prone to.
Serotonin toxicity, or serotonin syndrome, is severe because it is a drug-induced medical condition occurring when there is excessive serotonin in the brain’s synapses. Symptoms of serotonin toxicity could present with the following combination of symptoms:
- Neuromuscular
- Autonomic
- Psychological
Serotonin is a vital neurotransmitter in our bodies that is integral to maintaining normal brain and nerve cell function. It is naturally produced and necessary for mood, appetite, sleep, and memory.
How do you calm serotonin syndrome?
Massage is an effective way to calm serotonin syndrome. The effects of massage therapy on serotonin syndrome can be further enhanced by incorporating aromatherapy into the session. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to stimulate the senses and provide a calming and therapeutic effect. Oils such as lavender, bergamot, and rose have been shown to reduce symptoms.
Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important, especially for folks dealing with serotonin syndrome, and massage therapy can make a real difference here. When your sleep quality improves, it helps ease the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, since serotonin plays a big role in reducing tension.
But that’s not all massage therapy does. It’s a powerful tool for enhancing our overall well-being. By knocking down stress levels and boosting circulation, it’s particularly handy for those with serotonin syndrome, where stress can really wreak havoc.
Massage helps bring harmony back to a body that’s been through the wringer, often leading to reduced cortisol levels, a better mood, and fewer feelings of depression. Plus, massage releases endorphins, nature’s way of helping with pain and boosting your mood.
Here are some more physiological effects of massage on the body:
- Aids in digestion
- Stimulates the circulatory system
- It boosts immunity
- Helps to regulate the respiratory system
- Maintains bone health
- Aids in skin regeneration
What are the challenges of the cannabis industry?
In conclusion, the cannabis industry faces multifaceted obstacles—from federal tax burdens and banking limitations to patient safety concerns like serotonin syndrome.
Overcoming these challenges requires open communication between patients and providers, policy reform, and continued education about cannabis as a legitimate therapeutic option.
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