Medical Cannabis Concentration
PharmD program at PCOM Georgia
The Medical Cannabis Concentration includes five (5) credit hours in didactic elective
and practical experiential elective coursework studying the science and therapeutic
application and benefit of medical cannabis and related compounds.
This concentration includes a collaboration with Organic Remedies, a Pennsylvania state-approved marijuana research center and clinical registrant
with dispensary locations located throughout the Commonwealth. Organic Remedies and PCOM have signed a long-term research agreement to study the therapeutic applications
of medical marijuana.
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Why study medical cannabis?
Basic and clinical research continue to add to our knowledge of the medicinal properties
of cannabis. With legalization in 36 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico,
Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, over 3 million patients are being treated with medical
cannabis for multiple conditions, including neurological disorders, opioid dependence,
inflammatory diseases and sickle cell anemia.
Medical cannabis provides unique opportunities for pharmacists to consult with patients
and develop treatment plans that are aligned with their condition and the physician’s
certification. Pharmacists also ensure compliance with state regulations.
Upon completing this concentration, students will:
- be knowledgeable about the pharmacology of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, and their
appropriate use for qualifying conditions.
- understand basic dosing and routes of administration recommendations for medical cannabis.
- be familiar with federal and state regulations related to dispensing of medical cannabis
and the importance of regulatory compliance.
- have experience interacting with patients to aid in product selection based upon their
individual symptoms.
- understand methods of inventory control.
Which courses will I take for the Medical Cannabis Concentration?
The Medical Cannabis Concentration requires the completion of five (5) credit hours
of elective coursework. Students will complete one, one-credit cannabis elective course
during the third year. During the fourth professional year, students will complete
a four-credit elective APPE rotation on site at Organic Remedies. In these courses,
students will learn about the pharmacology and therapeutic applications of cannabis-derived
products as well as practical experience working with patients in a legal dispensary
to help patients improve their health and well-being.