A division of UCSD is based entirely on cannabis. It can be called weed, pot or bud, but the researchers at the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research dub it “”science.””
CMCR is hidden among the lawns on the east side of UCSD. Clusters of buildings create a research facility that is studying the effects of cannabis on volunteer participants. Professors from UC Davis, UC San Francisco and UC Irvine, as well as professors from across the nation, contribute data and experiments, according to director Igor Grant.
“”We want to know whether THC [delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol], or cannabis to put it more bluntly, can be helpful in the treatment of severe pain,”” Grant said.
The facility grew after Congressman John Vasconcellos introduced Senate Bill 847, a bill that was then signed by Gov. Gray Davis. The bill calls for a three-year program conducting research that will “”enhance understanding of the efficacy and adverse effects of marijuana as a pharmacological agent,”” stressing that the project “”should not be construed as encouraging or sanctioning the social or recreational use of marijuana.””
Researchers at the facility coordinate tests throughout California. The National Academy of Sciences has specified the diseases and conditions the facility must study.
“”Testing is for long-range results,”” Grant said. “”We want to find evidence that cannabis works as an alternative to other treatments that are not working.””
Grant is a founding professor of CMCR. He understood the necessity for scientific data in the cannabis field.
“”The actual legislation was signed by Davis in the summer of 2000, but administrative review is a lengthy process,”” Grant said. “”It has taken a long time to get our project reviewed by the federal government.””
The initial studies are just starting at the CMCR. Research on the pain and effects of HIV and AIDS, chronic and neuropathic pain, nausea associated with cancer treatment, and muscle spasicity caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis are examples of tests being conducted.
“”These are always controlled studies, with samples containing THC and ‘dummy’ cigarettes containing the equivalent to nicotine,”” Grant said.
Goals of the studies are to find the optimal dosage and administration of cannabis to increase efficacy and safety. The CMCR also manages preclinical studies to aid in the understanding of THC as a therapeutic agent.
Calls for spring studies have already been closed. Prospective participants can place themselves on a wait list after filling out the proper paperwork. Researchers will use the list to contact participants once new studies are approved.