Benefits of Medicinal Cannabis

While the medical research of cannabis is limited, more and more studies involving clinical trials are being performed to show its effectiveness in treating a variety of conditions.

This has led to medicinal cannabis being used to reduce pain and relieve symptoms associated with a variety of conditions. It can also assist with the management of pain and side effects caused by treatments for other illnesses.

In Australia, the TGA has approved applications for using medical cannabis as a treatment for a range of conditions including, but not limited to:

– Chronic Pain	– Chemotherapy and cancer pain management
– Anxiety	– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Epilepsy	– Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
– Neuropathic pain	– Insomnia & sleep disorders
– Multiple Sclerosis	– Seizure management

However, these approvals are completed on a case-by-case basis and every application does not guarantee approval.

Side Effects of Medicinal Cannabis

Like all medications, medical cannabis can have side effects. The side effects an individual may suffer can differ greatly based on current medications and health conditions. 

The risk of these side effects should be discussed with your prescribing doctor. Typical side effects include:

– Dry mouth	– Drowsiness and fatigue
– Vertigo	– Nausea and vomiting
– Fever	– Increase in appetite
– Confusion	– Feelings of euphoria with THC
– Paranoia	– Psychosis or cognitive distortion

The side effects and their severity may also depend on the type of medicinal cannabis product consumed and dosage. To reduce symptoms your prescribing doctor usually starts with small, closely monitored doses. 

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is a non-psychoactive drug. This means it does not create an intoxicating effect that people usually associate with the recreational use of weed or marijuana.

This cannabis medication comes in the form of an oil, known as CBD oil. CBD is classified as a Schedule 4 (S4) Prescription Only Medication.

Due to its minimal side effects, CBD is normally prescribed by doctors first when used as medical cannabis.

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

This is the main active ingredient of cannabis which is responsible for many of the pharmacological effects. This includes the psychoactive effect, also known to produce the “high” in recreational uses.

THC is classified as a Schedule 8 (S8) “Controlled Drug”. This form of medical cannabis also requires a prescription from an Australian registered medical practitioner.