NY Bans Popular Cannabis Energy Pills—Are Caffeine and Cannabis Too Risky Together?

ArticleIn a controversial new move, New York regulators have halted the sale of popular caffeine-infused cannabis tablets marketed as energy-boosting supplements. The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) issued a “quarantine” order against Hudson Cannabis, the producer of the caffeine-cannabis blends “Go” and “Genius,” on July 24, citing concerns that the products could pose health risks by combining caffeine and cannabinoids. The ban has left cannabis enthusiasts and industry professionals questioning whether the decision is about public safety or an overly restrictive policy.

For over a year, Hudson Cannabis has marketed the 1906 brand of cannabis tablets, selling “Go” and “Genius” blends, each targeting specific effects. The “Go” tablets, containing 80 milligrams of caffeine, 2 mg of THC, and other plant extracts, were positioned as an energy-boosting supplement.

The “Genius” tablets, with a smaller dose of caffeine, were touted as enhancing focus and memory while promoting calmness. But despite popularity among professionals and fitness enthusiasts, the OCM has banned the tablets, asserting that the caffeine-cannabis combination may “jeopardize public health.”

According to OCM inspectors, the ban stems from a rule that prohibits combining cannabis with non-natural ingredients that could increase “potency, toxicity, or addictive potential.” Hudson Cannabis’ co-founder, Melany Dobson, expressed surprise at the OCM’s decision, saying the company followed all state cannabis regulations and had received no reports of adverse effects from their products, which are legally available in six other states.

“This type of arbitrary behavior… only serves to benefit the illicit market Governor Hochul claims to care about shutting down,” Dobson stated.

The OCM’s decision has sparked criticism and confusion, particularly regarding the ban on synthetic caffeine but not naturally occurring caffeine. Matthew Schweber, an attorney representing 1906’s parent company, called the ruling inconsistent, noting that state law allows products with naturally caffeinated ingredients like coffee or tea but blocks supplements with added caffeine.

Schweber questioned OCM’s claim that caffeine heightens the potency or toxicity of cannabis, pointing out a lack of documented evidence on potential risks. "Do they have any evidence that supports the difference? No, of course not," he said.

Further, the ruling allows the sale of cannabis products containing naturally occurring caffeine in New York, including cannabis-infused coffee by Harney Brothers, which contains 225 mg of caffeine per serving—a far higher dose than the 1906 tablets. This inconsistency has left cannabis retailers like Osbert Orduna, CEO of The Cannabis Place, puzzled. “The 1906 products are very popular… It’s a big seller. We have professionals and fitness buffs who rely on these tablets,” Orduna said, calling for consumer choice over regulatory intervention.

The medical community is still examining the impacts of combining cannabis and caffeine. Limited studies have investigated how these substances interact, but preliminary research suggests the pairing could affect the brain in unexpected ways. A 2012 study observed that combining low doses of cannabis and caffeine impaired working memory in rats. However, the absence of comprehensive human studies leaves much unknown, as the combination may produce different effects depending on dosage and individual tolerance.

Caffeine is known for its stimulating effects, while cannabis can function as either a stimulant or depressant based on the strain and dosage. Some users report a sense of focus and energy from the combination, while others feel more relaxed and calm. The lack of extensive medical research has led to varied opinions on whether the combination is beneficial or potentially harmful.

New York’s ban on caffeine-infused cannabis is the latest development in a landscape where states are struggling to balance consumer demand with health and safety concerns. New York alone now has over 220 licensed dispensaries, underscoring the industry’s rapid growth and the rising need for clear and consistent regulations. The dispute over Hudson Cannabis’ 1906 products may ultimately set a precedent for how cannabis products are regulated across the state and potentially influence other states as well.

As New York regulators grapple with a fast-evolving industry, the balance between consumer safety and market freedom is becoming a focal point of cannabis policy. Some, like Orduna, believe adults should have the freedom to make informed choices, while regulators contend that safeguarding public health is their primary responsibility. Whether the OCM’s decision will stand could influence future rulings on what ingredients are deemed safe to combine with cannabis products.

Should New York allow caffeine-infused cannabis products, or does the combination pose too many risks?