FAQS

elcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. Here, we provide answers to common questions regarding medicinal cannabis in Australia. Our goal is to ensure that patients, healthcare professionals, and the public have accurate, clear, and up-to-date information on accessing and using medicinal cannabis in a safe and regulated manner.

1. Who Qualifies for Medicinal Cannabis in Australia?

In Australia, medicinal cannabis is available to patients who meet specific criteria under the guidelines set by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). To access medicinal cannabis, a patient must:

• Have a diagnosed medical condition that is eligible for medicinal cannabis treatment, as determined by a registered healthcare professional.

• Obtain a prescription from a registered healthcare professional, such as a doctor, who is authorised to prescribe medicinal cannabis.

Conditions that may qualify for medicinal cannabis treatment include, but are not limited to:

• Chronic pain

• Cancer-related symptoms

• Epilepsy

• Anxiety (in certain cases)

• Multiple sclerosis

• Palliative care

It’s important to note that the decision to prescribe medicinal cannabis is based on the clinical judgment of a registered healthcare professional. They will assess the patient’s condition, previous treatments, and whether medicinal cannabis is a suitable option.

2. What are the Legal Requirements for Prescribing Medicinal Cannabis?

Medicinal cannabis is regulated under Australian law to ensure its safe use. The TGA, along with the Office of Drug Control (ODC), oversees the regulation of medicinal cannabis products in Australia.

• Prescription Requirement: Medicinal cannabis can only be prescribed by a registered healthcare professional. It is illegal to obtain or use medicinal cannabis without a valid prescription.
  
  

• Special Access Scheme (SAS): The SAS allows registered healthcare professionals to apply to the TGA for access to unapproved medicinal cannabis products on behalf of their patients. There are two categories under the SAS: Category A for urgent cases and Category B for non-urgent cases.
  
  

• Authorised Prescriber (AP) Scheme: Healthcare professionals can apply to become an Authorised Prescriber, allowing them to prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients within a specified group without seeking individual approval from the TGA for each prescription.
  
  

• TGA Approval: Before prescribing medicinal cannabis, healthcare professionals must ensure that the product is approved by the TGA for use in Australia. Products must comply with strict quality and safety standards.
  
  

3. What Conditions are Approved for Medicinal Cannabis Treatment?

Medicinal cannabis may be used to treat certain conditions, based on evidence and regulatory guidelines. The TGA provides guidelines for healthcare professionals on the conditions that may qualify for medicinal cannabis treatment.

Some of the conditions for which medicinal cannabis may be considered include:

• Chronic Pain: Medicinal cannabis has been explored as a treatment option for patients with chronic pain, including pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and neuropathic pain. Healthcare professionals will assess whether cannabis is appropriate for the patient’s specific condition.
  
  

• Cancer-related Symptoms: Medicinal cannabis is often used to help manage symptoms related to cancer, such as pain, nausea, and loss of appetite, particularly in patients undergoing chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.
  
  

• Epilepsy: Medicinal cannabis, especially cannabidiol (CBD), has been researched for its potential to help control seizures in some patients with epilepsy.
  
  

• Multiple Sclerosis: Some patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) use medicinal cannabis to help alleviate symptoms such as muscle spasticity and pain.
  
  

• Palliative Care: Medicinal cannabis can be considered as part of palliative care to improve quality of life for patients with terminal conditions, particularly to manage pain, nausea, and loss of appetite.
  
  

It is essential that any use of medicinal cannabis be prescribed and monitored by a registered healthcare professional. No medicinal cannabis product is a “one-size-fits-all” solution, and the decision to use it should be based on an individual’s specific medical condition and needs.

4. How Can I Access Medicinal Cannabis in Australia?

To access medicinal cannabis, patients must:

• Consult with a registered healthcare professional, who will assess their medical condition and determine if medicinal cannabis is an appropriate treatment option.

• If medicinal cannabis is deemed appropriate, the healthcare professional will issue a prescription and submit the necessary application to the TGA or apply under the Authorised Prescriber scheme.

Patients cannot directly purchase medicinal cannabis without a prescription, and all products must be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy.

5. Are There Any Risks Associated with Medicinal Cannabis?

As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the use of medicinal cannabis. These may vary depending on the individual and the type of product used. Potential side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, or changes in mood. It is crucial that medicinal cannabis is used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, who can monitor its effects and adjust treatment as necessary.

6. Can I Travel with Medicinal Cannabis?

Patients who require medicinal cannabis for their treatment must be aware of the legal regulations surrounding travel. In Australia, medicinal cannabis can only be transported with a valid prescription. International travel with medicinal cannabis may be subject to additional restrictions, and patients should check the laws of the destination country and consult with their healthcare provider for guidance.

Disclaimer: All medicinal cannabis products are available only via prescription and in compliance with Australian regulations. No unverified therapeutic claims are made about the effectiveness of these products. Always consult a registered healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment.