In a recent article by Jeffrey Friedland, titled ‘The Coexistence of FDA Approved Cannabis-Based Drugs and Medical Marijuana Provided through State-Licensed Businesses’ (http://dtn.fm/PV2e6), the author addresses some important concerns relating to the evolving role of the federal government in dealing with the rapidly growing cannabis industry, especially as it pertains to the potential effects on the use of medical marijuana (MMJ).
Specifically, the article points to the anticipated approval by the FDA of Epidiolex (generic name cannabidiol, or CBD), a cannabis-based drug produced by GW Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: GWPH) for the treatment of Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy. In addition, the article mentions concerns related to the FDA’s anticipated rescheduling of cannabis products from a current Schedule I status to a level acknowledging the drug’s medical benefits.
In the case of Epidiolex, the article describes fears that Dravet patients have about possibly being forced to switch to the drug if it becomes approved and no longer being allowed to purchase from state-licensed MMJ businesses, as they have done in the past. Friedland makes it clear that, if Epidiolex does gain FDA approval “it should not directly affect state-licensed medical marijuana businesses,” since the drug will not be sold through these businesses, but rather through normal distribution channel pharmacies. Moreover, the article indicates that the FDA has avoided regulating state-licensed marijuana businesses. However, it does suggest that GW Pharmaceuticals, the drug’s producer, could take action to restrict MMJ businesses producing or selling a marijuana-based medicine specifically for Dravet Syndrome.
As far as the possible rescheduling of cannabis products is concerned, apprehension has been expressed that such rescheduling by the FDA might lead to the closure of state-licensed dispensaries and suppliers. Again, Friedland emphasizes that such fears are unwarranted, saying that “forced closures will not occur as a result of a rescheduling of marijuana,” since “the existence of state-licensed marijuana programs is not based on marijuana’s schedule.”
All of this is good news for YiLoLife, Inc., a producer and distributor of high-quality MMJ edibles and associated products. The company has grown to its current standing by distributing its products throughout Arizona, and it has recently opened the state’s first MMJ superstore in Phoenix. YiLo was founded to provide consumers with a true alternative to the typical cannabis-infused edibles that offer little in the way of taste or clearly-labeled and dependable quality ingredients. In addition to snacks, candies, brownies, and chocolates, including sugar-free options, the company offers medicated drinks, along with a range of MMJ support products, all with the company’s distinctive logo, which continues to build brand recognition. The growing assurance that existing state-based MMJ businesses are not threatened by planned federal policy adjustments supports increasing investment in the industry.
For more information, visit www.yilo.com
