Author: Stacia Woodcock

Stacia Woodcock

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed in New York and Massachusetts. Stacia has over 10 years of pharmacy experience, with an emphasis in compounding, diabetes, and fertility. Prior to joining the GoodRx team, Stacia most recently worked as a clinical cannabis pharmacist for Curaleaf New York. Her professional areas of interest include alternative medicine, women’s health, and healthcare advocacy. She is also a triathlete and avid world traveler.

Cannabis rescheduling refers to the administrative process of moving marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, a change that formally recognizes its accepted medical use after more than fifty years of denial. As headlines buzz and stocks move, it is crucial to look past the hype and understand the fine print of this historic moment. The Reality Check: What Actually Changed? On December 18, President Trump signed an executive order directing the attorney general to finalize the move to Schedule III. This is a bureaucratic milestone built on years of scientific review and legal analysis,…

Read More
101

Master the language of cannabis. From cannabinoids and terpenes to cultivation and consumption, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to navigate the modern dispensary experience with confidence. Why Learn Cannabis Terminology? The cannabis industry has evolved from slang-heavy street culture to a sophisticated medical and recreational market. Understanding these terms helps you: Cannabis 101: Core Concepts The "Chemovar" Revolution While most people know Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid, modern science is moving toward Chemovars (chemical varieties). Instead of relying on plant shape (short vs. tall), experts look at the specific profile of Cannabinoids (potency) and Terpenes (flavor/effect) to predict how a product will make you feel. The Big Three…

Read More

A groundbreaking consensus statement published in the European Heart Journal has declared that nicotine is toxic to the heart and blood vessels, regardless of the delivery method. This major review, developed by experts including Thomas MĂĽnzel from Johannes Gutenberg University, challenges the widely held belief that alternative nicotine products like e-cigarettes and pouches are heart-safe alternatives to smoking. The expert panel analyzed decades of research to reach a clear conclusion: nicotine itself is a potent cardiovascular toxin. It raises blood pressure, accelerates heart rate, damages blood vessel linings, and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke—independent of combustion. This means that…

Read More

A Michigan Court of Claims judge has ruled that a new 24% wholesale tax on marijuana can take effect, denying a request for a preliminary injunction sought by cannabis industry advocates. The tax, part of a comprehensive 2025-26 budget deal passed in October, is intended to generate revenue for state road repairs through 2030. In an opinion issued Monday, Judge Sima Patel rejected arguments from the plaintiffs in Holistic Research Group Inc./Michigan Cannabis Industry v. Michigan Department of Treasury. The industry groups had contended that the tax was unconstitutional, arguing it violated the state Constitution's title-object clause by altering the voter-approved…

Read More

Spain is advancing a new bill that will prohibit smoking and vaping in a wide range of public outdoor spaces, including beaches, restaurant terraces, stadiums, and bus stops. The new law, introduced by Health Minister Monica Garcia, is a significant public health initiative designed to create a healthier environment for both locals and the millions of tourists who visit the country each year. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance Spain's appeal as a premier travel destination by promoting cleaner, smoke-free experiences for visitors discovering its diverse attractions. Protecting Public Health and Reshaping the Tourism Experience Minister…

Read More

In the ever-expanding world of health and wellness, cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a prominent and compelling natural compound, finding its way into a vast array of products, from oils and tinctures to lotions, cosmetics, and even food and beverages. One of the most popular and intriguing applications is in the realm of massage therapy. The promise of a CBD-infused massage often comes with claims of enhanced pain relief, reduced inflammation, and deeper relaxation. But what does the science actually say? If you're considering trying a CBD massage, you likely have questions: How does it work? Is it truly effective…

Read More
CBD

In a study conducted by researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University, the long-term effects of vaping have been brought to light. The world's first study of its kind, which began in 2023, is set to conclude in March 2025, and the preliminary findings are causing concern among health experts and the public alike. Study Author Believes Vaping is More Harmful than Smoking Dr. Maxime Boidin, the lead author of the study, initially believed that vaping was a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. However, as the study progressed, his perspective changed dramatically. "What we have found is the dangers for someone who…

Read More

A recent study published in the journal Addiction has found that vaping CBD does not significantly affect driving performance. The clinical trial, conducted by a team of Spanish researchers, assessed participants' simulated driving abilities after inhaling either CBD or a placebo. The study's findings showed no statistically significant changes in the subjects' overall driving performance scores after vaporizing products containing 15% or 30% CBD. Additionally, the researchers observed no significant differences in secondary outcomes, such as lane positioning, reaction time, or collisions. The study also found that CBD administration had little impact on the subjects' visual functions. The authors concluded…

Read More

Dr. Karan Rajan, an English surgeon and bestselling author, has raised concerns about the high nicotine content in vapes through an Instagram reel. He points out that depending on the type and manufacturer, vapes can contain up to 60 milligrams of nicotine per pod, while a single cigarette typically contains only one to two milligrams. Dr. Rajan warns against underestimating the dangers of vapes, as their delicious flavors can mask the fact that they are a harmful substance. He states, "Let's be honest. These mango-flavored nicotine pods are not for Uncle Bob who wants to quit smoking. They are getting…

Read More
CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has taken the world by storm, emerging as a popular natural remedy for a wide range of health concerns. From reducing anxiety and alleviating pain to improving sleep quality and managing epilepsy, the potential benefits of CBD oil have captured the attention of people from all walks of life. But what exactly is CBD oil, and how can you navigate the sea of information surrounding its uses, risks, and proper dosage? In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of CBD oil, providing you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your…

Read More