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UKE study: No effects eight months after cannabis illegalisation

by | Jan 27, 2026 | Health, Politics, Research

Researchers at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf have investigated the short-term effects of cannabis illegalization for adults in Germany. The result: There were no significant changes compared to the time before the change in the law. It was based on data from a population survey in Germany and Austria before and after the illegalization. In Austria, the possession of cannabis remains prohibited.

In Germany, cannabis use among 18- to 64-year-olds rose from 12.1 to 14.4 percent. The increase was comparable to Austria. Among monthly users, slightly fewer people drove under the influence of cannabis in Germany than before legalisation and before a new THC limit was set in the blood. Here, too, there was no significant difference to Austria.

Cannabis. Credits: Pixabay
Cannabis. Credits: Pixabay

In 22 percent of the journeys under the influence of cannabis, alcohol or other substances were also consumed. Such mixed consumption trips decreased among weekly consumers. Driving alone under the influence of cannabis was most common among daily users.

Germany partially legalized the cultivation and possession of cannabis for adults in April 2024. In August 2024, a THC limit of 3.5 nanograms per milliliter of blood serum was set for road traffic. The results were published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe.

Original Paper:

Short-term effects of cannabis legalisation in Germany on driving under the influence of cannabis: a difference-in-differences analysis using Austria as a control – The Lancet Regional Health – Europe


Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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