Original Research
Saturday, November 11, 2023
11:30 AM–01:00 PM
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic pain, which is often undertreated, has a profound negative impact on quality of life. The United States is suffering from an opioid epidemic, with disturbing trends in opioid misuse and overdose, emphasizing the need for additional treatments for chronic pain. Medical cannabis (MC) is an alternative non-opioid intervention for chronic pain, with much uncertainty regarding its place in therapy. Although some pain management guidelines recommend against use, MC has gained more attention with increased legalization in many states. The lack of consistent high-quality studies emphasizes the need for patient-centered outcomes research, engaging diverse patients in the research process to identify relevant research.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Participants have different experiences, perceptions, and beliefs that can be analyzed to develop patient-centered outcomes research regarding the utilization of MC for chronic pain.
Study Design: Qualitative, descriptive, focus-group study
Methods: Participants self-identified into three focus groups including individuals: with chronic pain who had used MC (group A), with chronic pain who had not used MC (group B), and without chronic pain regardless of use of MC for other conditions (group C). A facilitator questionnaire was developed addressing topics including efficacy, safety, cost, and convenience. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo 12 software. Thematic analysis using open and pattern coding was used to analyze responses.
Results: Twenty-eight individuals participated in this study with 8-10 participants per group. Along with the prespecified topics, additional themes were identified including MC dosing and formulations, safety in special populations, perceptions of provider interactions, the impact of bias, and employment ramifications of use. Themes were similar among groups, but areas of emphasis varied. A list of research questions was derived from identified themes.
Conclusion: The results of this focus group study provide avenues for patient-centered outcomes research on the use of MC for chronic pain.
Presenting Author
Connie Liang PharmDSt. John's University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Authors
Sapna Basappa PharmD
University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
Kathleen Pincus PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES
University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
Shannon Tucker MS, CPHIMS
University of Maryland School of Pharmacy