Neal discusses the impact of Hurricane Idalia on Floridians' recovery plans. Toby talks about how easing marijuana restrictions would affect the cannabis market and the availability of Narcan, the first overdose treatment to be sold on drug store shelves.
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Quick takeaways
Reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III drug could significantly benefit the struggling cannabis industry by lowering tax rates, increasing access to banking services, and facilitating research.
The availability of Narcan without a prescription is a critical step in combating the opioid crisis, but the high cost may limit access for those who need it most.
Deep dives
Reclassification of Marijuana as a Schedule III Drug
US health officials have requested the reclassification of marijuana as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This reclassification would acknowledge its legitimate uses and potentially bring significant benefits to the struggling cannabis industry. It could lower tax rates for cannabis companies, increase access to banking services, and facilitate easier research on the drug. While the move is seen as revolutionary, it falls short of providing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the industry.
Hurricane Edalia Makes Landfall in Florida
Hurricane Edalia, a powerful Category 3 storm, recently made landfall in Florida causing record storm surges and widespread power outages. Despite its intensity, the storm was not as catastrophic as Hurricane Ian that struck the same area the previous year. The higher-than-average water temperatures and the low salinity water in the Gulf of Mexico contributed to the strength of the storm. The event highlights the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks and increased preparedness for future hurricanes.
Overdose Reversal Drug Narcan Now Available Without Prescription
Starting next week, Narcan, an overdose reversal drug, will be available for purchase in pharmacies across the United States without a prescription. This development is a critical step in combating the ongoing opioid crisis, which has claimed thousands of lives in recent years. While the accessibility of Narcan is a positive development, its high cost of $45 per dose may limit access for those who need it most. Efforts are being made to ensure insurance coverage for Narcan to make it more affordable for individuals with opioid use disorder.
Exploring Blue Zones and Longevity
The concept of Blue Zones, areas with high concentrations of individuals living past 100 years old, is explored in a new Netflix documentary. These Blue Zones, located in various parts of the world, share common traits that contribute to longevity, including a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and having a sense of purpose in life. While each Blue Zone has its unique features, these shared lifestyle factors provide insights into living a longer and healthier life. Adopting these practices may lead to increased well-being and improved life expectancy.
Episode 137: Neal and Toby explain how Floridians are planning to recover from the multibillion $$$ cost of Hurricane Idalia. Plus, how easing marijuana restrictions would impact the cannabis market and Narcan becomes the first overdose treatment to be sold on drug store shelves. Neal shares his favorite numbers from the week Amazon and Google pair up in a JBL speaker collab. And finally, why people who live in 'Blue Zones' have the highest life expectancy.