Swinburne College of Know-how is main a world-first trial to evaluate whether or not sufferers can drive safely whereas taking prescribed medical hashish in Melbourne, Australia.
The Victorian Authorities has introduced Swinburne as its official analysis accomplice, investing $4.9 million to analyze the results of medical hashish on folks's driving efficiency in a managed trial.
At the moment, Victorian legislation prohibits driving with any detectable THC (the energetic compound in medical hashish) within the affected person's system, which might be current for a number of days after use.
With using medical hashish in Victoria rising by 700% within the final two years, the worldwide proof concerning the affect of THC on driving stays restricted.
Professor Luke Downey, principal investigator of Swinburne College's Medication and Driving Analysis Unit, says it’s a pioneering research.
“We’re excited to guide this world-first analysis monitoring the impression of medical hashish on driving efficiency, and assist the Victorian Authorities's dedication to evidence-based street security coverage.”
Attempt to replicate real-world driving situations
Funded by a $4.9 million allocation from the 2024/25 Victorian Finances, the historic course of will take 18 months.
The research will replicate real-world driving situations on a closed-circuit observe, whereas researchers assess individuals' dealing with of distractions and driving efficiency, together with steering, braking and pace management.
Swinburne researcher Dr Thomas Arkell says you will need to lastly check how the results of medical hashish play out in a real-life state of affairs.
“In terms of making coverage choices, you should know that the proof is as sturdy and relevant as it may be to an actual atmosphere,” he mentioned.
“We all know little or no about medical hashish. We have now some analysis that appears at hashish on the whole, however we take a look at the identical plant and compound used for very completely different causes and in very completely different quantities.”
To qualify, individuals should have been prescribed medicinal hashish for sleep problems, continual ache, or psychological well being situations for no less than six months. Eligible individuals will then bear complete pre- and post-drive drug impairment screenings.
