Earl Morris, Pharm.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., a research assistant professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy in the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, has been awarded a $72,965 grant to study the cardiovascular effects of medical cannabis. The Consortium for Medical Marijuana Clinical Outcomes Research awarded the funding this summer as part of its grants program.
Morris aims to fill a critical gap in understanding the cardiovascular effects of medical cannabis by leveraging linked data from the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry and Medicaid claims. Given the increasing use of medical cannabis in Florida, there is a vital need to better understand trends and correlates for its use among Florida residents with cardiovascular disease. By examining trends in cannabis use among patients with cardiovascular conditions and assessing associated risks, this study will provide crucial insights into the safety of medical cannabis in a vulnerable population.
The findings are expected to significantly inform clinical and policy decision-making by clarifying the cardiovascular risk associated with medical cannabis use, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Output from this project will help set priorities for future research into the cardiovascular risk profile of medical cannabis, will provide novel evidence to health care providers for making more informed treatment decisions, and will guide policymakers in crafting regulations that ensure safer medical cannabis use.