Arkansas Community’s Attitudes Toward the Regulation of Medical Cannabis and the Pharmacist’s Involvement in Arkansas Medical Cannabis

Abstract Objectives This study (a) explored the attitudes of the Arkansas community toward medical cannabis (MC) regulation and the role of pharmacists in dispensing MC before the product became available and (b) examined whether participants' demographics (e.g., age, gender) and characteristics (e.g., history of cannabis use) were associated with these attitudes. Design Cross-sectional survey Setting and Participants Using social media, a university research registry, and posted flyers, residents of Arkansas were invited to participate in the self-administered online survey study in February-April 2018. Outcome measures Five questions that inquired about participants' attitudes toward MC regulation and pharmacists' roles regarding MC use. Results Participants (n=1,343) who completed at least one of the five questions were included. The majority were aged 40-64 years (52.2%), female (69.1%), and white (88.7%). Most participants reported a history of cannabis use (81.8%) and possession or intention to apply for a MC card (52.9%). Among the conditions approved for MC use, pain (20.3%), arthritis (15.4%), and post-traumatic stress disorder (14.5%) were frequently reported. Likewise, prescription use for mood disorders (46.1%) and pain (37.4%) were also reported. In multivariable regression analyses, participants' history of cannabis use was associated with a preference for lesser oversight of MC, disagreement with MC being available through a pharmacy only, and disagreement on whether MC should be regulated before legalizing it for recreational use (all p Conclusion Participants who previously used cannabis were in favor of fewer restrictions and negatively perceived pharmacists' involvement in ensuring appropriate dispensing and use of MC. The findings may highlight the need for Arkansas pharmacists to explore alternative ways to promote the safe and proper use of MC.