Evolving Global Perspectives of Pharmacists: Dispensing Medical Cannabis

Abstract

Introduction: Different countries have employed a variety of methods for their populace to access medical cannabis. Objectives: The purpose of this literature review was to assess the international literature on pharmacists' beliefs and attitudes towards medical cannabis. Methodology: This literature review summarized the various countries that utilize pharmacies and pharmacists to dispense medical cannabis. The countries included in this review were: Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Serbia, Switzerland, USA, and Uruguay. Discussion: The pharmacist perspective has been of key importance within the medical landscape, as they are the ones who not only dispense medication but also counsel and monitor patients and it is this perspective that is lacking. Conclusion: Overall, this review found that even though pharmacists are generally comfortable with dispensing medical cannabis; they still require further education to do so as safely and effectively as possible.

Keywords: dispensing; education; medical cannabis; pharmacists; review.