Students Research in Progress
Sunday, October 13, 2024
12:45 PM–02:15 PM
Abstract
Introduction: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 19% of Americans reportedly used marijuana at least once in 2021. Since 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana use, marijuana consumption is expected to increase. Studies have shown that marijuana smoking increases airway resistance, episodes of bronchitis, and exposure to toxic chemicals. Furthermore, marijuana contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and cannabinol, which could cause drug interactions, potentiating side effects, and poor management of chronic disease states. Pharmacist-led tobacco smoking cessation clinics have been established at multiple institutions. However, under the current clinical service model, there is a gap in marijuana smoking cessation care. Therefore, it is pertinent for pharmacists to initiate this area of service.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Can pharmacy student-led counseling effectively improve patient rates of marijuana smoking abstinence and their pulmonary function?
Study Design: Prospective, single-center, quantitative pilot study
Methods:
This study was conducted from September 1, 2023, to June 15, 2024, at a public hospital-based outpatient specialty clinic. Random sampling was acquired through inclusion criteria limited to age (= 18 years old), established pulmonary specialty care, and reported recent (3 months) marijuana usage. Recruitment was conducted via phone interview and informed consent was obtained. Random group assignment was achieved through block randomization, based on the patient’s pulmonary clinic appointment day. Standard baseline assessment included a smoking history survey, pulmonary function test (PFT), and carbon monoxide (CO) screening. The experimental group received counseling regarding their assessment results, implemented with 5R and 5D behavioral modifications. Vitalograph® spirometry measured FEV1/FEV6, with a cutoff score > 70% indicating the absence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Smokerlyzer® CO screening assessed smoking abstinence with a cutoff level of = 6 ppm. Four-month follow-ups (± 1 month) were conducted either in person or via telehealth during which, the assessments were readministered, except during remote follow-ups.
Results: In progress
Conclusion: In progress
Presenting Author
Phoenix Yeung PharmD CandidateUniversity of Illinois at Chicago
Authors
Eduardo Pallares PharmD Candidate
University of Illinois at Chicago
Lori Wilken PharmD
University of Illinois at Chicago