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Okanagan, Canada – Researchers at the University of British Columbia Okanagan have developed a groundbreaking system to standardize cannabis dosing, offering a crucial step towards safer and more informed cannabis use.
Drs. Zach Walsh and Michelle St. Pierre have created the “Index of Cannabis Equivalence” (ICE), a unique approach that aims to establish comparable doses across different consumption methods like smoking, vaping, and edibles. The study, published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, aims to provide a framework similar to “standard drinks” for alcohol, making it easier for users to understand and manage their cannabis intake.
“Different consumption methods can produce vastly different effects,” explains Dr. St. Pierre. “This makes it incredibly difficult to advise people on safe and appropriate doses.” The ICE tackles this challenge by focusing on user-reported experiences to determine equivalent doses across various products.
The research analyzed data from over 1,300 participants, ranging in age from 18 to 93. Based on user reports of low-dose effects, the study suggests these equivalencies:
- Two puffs from a joint, pipe, or vaporizer
- One 5mg THC edible
- A quarter dab of concentrate
- One bong hit
Crucially, these equivalencies are based on individuals with low cannabis tolerance, prioritizing safety and accessibility for new or infrequent users.
“The ICE provides a practical and user-centered approach to cannabis dosing,” says Dr. Walsh. “This can significantly improve harm reduction efforts, inform public health initiatives, and guide research and policy related to cannabis.”
The development of the ICE marks a significant step towards a more informed and responsible approach to cannabis consumption. By providing clear and comparable dosing information, this research has the potential to improve both public health and individual well-being.
