In a recent government meeting, Dr. Brandon Forsyth, director of the medical cannabis and health programs at the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, presented a comprehensive analysis of medical cannabis pricing trends in Utah from 2021 to 2024. The findings indicate a significant decrease in the average cost per gram of THC across various product categories, particularly in cartridges and gummies, while the price of flower has shown a slight increase.

Dr. Forsyth noted that the decline in prices, especially in the earlier years of the program, has been influenced by improved data collection and market competition. However, he emphasized that this data does not account for inflation, which has been substantial during the same period. Despite the overall decrease in prices, many patients still report that costs remain high, particularly when compared to the black market and out-of-state options.

The analysis highlighted that while the price per item has decreased for cartridges, it has remained stable for gummies and increased for flower. However, the medicated weight of products has steadily increased, suggesting that patients are receiving more THC for their money. This trend raises concerns about potential overconsumption, particularly with high-THC products.

During the meeting, discussions also touched on the challenges faced by the medical cannabis program, including patient retention and competition with the black market. Dr. Forsyth pointed out that many patients are still opting to purchase cannabis from out-of-state sources or illegal markets due to pricing issues. He advocated for increasing the number of licensed pharmacies to enhance competition and potentially lower prices.

Public comments during the meeting included perspectives from medical cannabis patients and industry representatives, who echoed the need for more transparency in pricing and data. Some expressed skepticism about claims of price-fixing among licensees, arguing that the overall trend has been a decrease in costs.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges in balancing market health with patient needs, as stakeholders continue to seek solutions to improve access and affordability in Utah's medical cannabis landscape.