#United States #Washington, D.C. #American Pharmacists Association #pharmacy #marijuana

APhA Highlights Pharmacists' Role in Marijuana Rescheduling

On December 18, 2025, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) took part in a significant ceremony at the White House, celebrating the rescheduling of marijuana to a Schedule III substance. This pivotal change from its prior Schedule I classification holds promising implications for research and medicine. Under the Schedule I classification, stringent regulations made it challenging for researchers and scientists to acquire marijuana for studies, hindering the understanding and utilization of its potential therapeutic benefits.

With this new designation, APhA advocates that the move will accelerate research into medicinal applications of marijuana and its components. This shift is crucial, as it aligns with APhA’s mission of improving medication use and advancing patient care. As the largest association of pharmacists in the United States, APhA represents a broad spectrum of pharmacy professionals, including pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists across various settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, and health care organizations.

APhA strongly supports regulatory modifications that accelerate clinical research on the safety and efficacy of cannabis-related products. While the therapeutic potential of cannabis is acknowledged, concerns surrounding drug interactions remain pertinent. Pharmacists serve as medication experts guiding patients through their medication regimens, encompassing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. This role is essential, especially when integrating cannabis into a patient’s treatment plan. Improved research access is anticipated to enhance insights into drug and condition interactions, which pharmacists can use to tailor medication management strategies effectively.

In addition to advocacy for research, APhA emphasizes the necessity of health care provider education, advocating for pharmacists to play an active role in the dispensing and counseling regarding cannabis. As experts in medication therapy, pharmacists are instrumental in enhancing health outcomes by ensuring patients understand potential risks and proper dosing of cannabis products.

To bolster this educational effort, APhA offers extensive resources, including the Pain Management Certificate Training Program. This program equips pharmacists with knowledge about safe pain management techniques and counseling strategies. Furthermore, APhA has recently published “Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Primer,” a guide aimed at assisting pharmacists and health care providers in navigating the complexities of cannabis within contemporary health care practices.

APhA's commitment to advancing the pharmacy profession is evident in its long-standing history since its founding in 1852. The organization acts as the pharmacy voice in shaping national guidelines, policies, and best practices that promote optimal patient care. Through vigorous advocacy, cutting-edge education, and the sharing of best practices, APhA continues to support the pharmacy community in its mission to improve public health.

As cannabis continues to gain traction in therapeutic contexts, the role of pharmacists becomes increasingly crucial. They're positioned to ensure safe and effective use of cannabis products, facilitating the integration of cannabinoids into comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs. APhA remains dedicated to leading this transformation in pharmacy practice and promoting the positive impact of educated pharmacists in patient care, particularly in the evolving landscape of cannabis use.

For more information about APhA and its initiatives, visit www.pharmacist.com.