The rapid expansion of cannabis use for serious medical conditions across 38 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam reflects the mounting recognition of its therapeutic potential for a number of disorders and diseases.
Although some medicinal properties of cannabis have been documented, rigorous research is needed to identify which patients will benefit from the drug, the most effective method of treatment, benefits versus risks and barriers to use.
Medicinal cannabis research investigates potential therapeutic applications and safety of cannabis and its derivatives. Researchers explore the effects of cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), on various disorders and diseases, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, autism spectrum disorder, side effects of chemotherapy, psychological trauma and more. Studies examine various methods of delivery, optimal dosage and formulation, and potential side effects to provide evidence-based knowledge for guiding medical professionals in prescribing cannabis-based treatments and to inform healthcare policies and regulations.
Pennsylvania is first in the nation to require that research accompany legalization of cannabis for serious medical conditions, thereby positioning the Commonwealth as the leader in generating new knowledge that further defines the drug's therapeutic applications.
PCOM, in collaboration with its Clinical Registrant partner Organic Remedies, has developed a multi-study research program that will gather and share data and insights into, the impact of medicinal cannabis on quality of life, behavior, cognition, chronic pain, opioid management, autism spectrum disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drug usage in Pennsylvania and in nursing homes, and processing methods to remove contaminants. PCOM also offers a concentration in medicinal cannabis as part of their Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program.
A recent study on medical marijuana use conducted by Dr. Michelle Lent found rapid and significant improvements in health-related quality of life after just 3 months of treatment.
To address a critical gap in pharmacy education, Dr. Avadhesh C. Sharma is spearheading research to improve pharmacy students' knowledge and ability to counsel patients about medical cannabis.
Doctor of Pharmacy students at PCOM Georgia may now customize their degree program by pursuing a concentration in medical cannabis.
PCOM researchers found positive preliminary results from an ongoing pilot clinical study on Dronabinol, a prescription-only synthetic version of THC, as a treatment option for patients with chronic pain.
PCOM has been approved as a certified Academic Clinical Research Center under Pennsylvania's Medical Marijuana law since 2018.
PCOM aims to develop innovative approaches to promoting health through basic, translational, clinical, behavioral, education and community research projects.
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