Conceptualizing ‘cannabis harm reduction’: lessons learned from cannabis compassion clubs and medical dispensaries in British Columbia (Canada)

Based on our findings, we identified research, policy, and advocacy implications. We argue that research should focus on loss of access, regulation, a broader conceptualization of cannabis substitution, and better integration between cannabis and harm reduction. We also highlight the need for a harm reduction analysis of the Cannabis Act, new community-oriented models to meet the needs of people who medicate with cannabis, and non-profit supply pathways. Finally, we suggest that structurally-oriented advocacy is needed to achieve community-oriented models of cannabis cultivation, distribution, and consumption and that this advocacy would benefit harm reduction more broadly.