University of Utah Launches Medical Cannabis Research Center

LOS ANGELES- The University of Utah is taking a significant step forward in the realm of medical cannabis research with the establishment of the Center for Medical Cannabis Research (CMCR). Announced on November 21, this initiative marks a concerted effort to gather evidence-based data on medical cannabis, addressing a growing need for scientific understanding in this area.

Center’s Objectives and Legislative Support

The CMCR, developed in partnership with University of Utah Health and the state of Utah, aims to enhance scientific knowledge about medical cannabis and aid in informed decision-making for patients and providers. This move follows the recognition by Utah State Legislation of the urgent need for more research in this field, spurred by the proliferation of unproven medical claims about cannabis. To support this endeavor, the Utah State Legislature passed House Bill 230, signed by Governor Spencer Cox on March 15, to fund the center.

Early Stages and Future Plans

In its early planning stages since last March, as reported by High Times, the CMCR was officially established on July 1. The center’s senior manager, Valerie Ahanonu, B.S., emphasized the importance of the CMCR in conducting research that can validate or refute claims about the benefits and risks of medical cannabis. The CMCR’s research will span various areas, including epilepsy and oncological supportive care.

Strategies and Collaborations

The CMCR has outlined several core strategies, including supporting statewide research, improving education about cannabis, and establishing a DEA-approved grow site for research-grade cannabis. The center will collaborate with the Genetic Science Learning Center and the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library at the University of Utah to develop educational materials and an accessible database of cannabis research.

Challenges and Federal Hurdles

The CMCR acknowledges the challenges posed by the federal status of cannabis, particularly the limited supply of DEA-approved research-grade cannabis. The center aims to overcome these obstacles by supporting the establishment of a DEA-approved cannabis grow site. This effort aligns with the broader federal shift, evidenced by President Joe Biden signing the “Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act, H.R. 8454,” into law on December 2, 2022.

Utah’s Medical Cannabis Landscape

Since the approval of medical cannabis in Utah, the state has seen progress in its medical cannabis program, including the issuance of dispensary licenses and the commencement of sales. However, there remains hesitancy among doctors to recommend medical cannabis due to its portrayal as a panacea and the prevalence of unproven claims. Jerry Cochran, M.S.W., Ph.D., interim director for the CMCR, stresses the need for science-led research to ensure the effective and safe use of medical cannabis.

The University of Utah’s CMCR represents a critical step in advancing the scientific basis for medical cannabis use, potentially transforming how this burgeoning field is understood and utilized in healthcare.