All Medical Cannabis prescriptions need to be approved by the TGA prior to the issuing of a prescription. There are a list of medical conditions and products that the TGA has accepted. Your Doctor will complete an application on your behalf for approval either using the Special Access Scheme or Approved Prescriber Pathway. This process takes about 10 minutes to complete and is done at your initial consultation. The application can take from 1 to 7 days to be approved by the TGA. Once the approval has been received, you will be sent a copy of the approval which you need to present to the pharmacy with your prescription.
For further information about the Medical Cannabis for Consumers from the TGA click here.
In summary you need to train your body. See our blog on this topic for a more detailed explanation.
Yes but in limited circumstances. You will need to discuss this with one of our Doctors at your initial appointment.
This varies depending on individual circumstances. In general terms you will be contacted by our Nurse or Pharmacist one week after starting the medication and then depending on your progress will need to see the Doctor to have your dose adjusted. Once you are stabilised you will only see the Doctor for repeat prescriptions.
You need either a Medicare Card or an IHI (Individual Health Identifier) number.
If you do not have a valid Medicare card, you may obtain an Individual Health Identifier (IHI) via Individual Healthcare Identifiers – Services Australia.
If you have a valid Medicare card, you may qualify for a Medicare rebate.
If you have a valid DVA card, you may qualify for a DVA rebate.
Currently Medical Cannabis is an unsubsidised medication. However in some cases we may be able to access medication for you on compassionate grounds.
We have had success with DVA subsidising Medical Cannabis however their criteria are quite strict and you will need to see both a Pain Specialist and either a Psychiatrist (or Other Specialist) both of whom need to support your application.
Click here for the DVA Process.
If you require any further information please click here to visit the DVA website.
Currently it is not legal to drive whilst using Medical Cannabis containing THC.
Legislation around CBD use while driving may differ from state to state. Speak to your Doctor for more information.
This will need to be negotiated with your Employer but if your work includes driving any vehicle or using equipment that is dangerous then you are unlikely to be able to work especially if your medication includes THC.
Yes, you will likely test positive especially if you are using THC.
It depends on how long you have been using Cannabis. It can be several weeks to return a negative test if you have been using Cannabis for a long period.
Refer to our blog on the issue by clicking here.
Terpenes are chemical compounds that are naturally found in plants and herbs including cannabis. They are responsible for each strain’s unique aromatic profile and are suspected to have a range of beneficial therapeutic effects when combined with THC, CBD and other cannabinoids.
The terms indica and sativa are botanical terms used to describe the morphology (shape) of different cannabis plants. Some people use the term indica to associate effects that are more sedating and the term sativa to describe more uplifting or energising effects. Hybrids are thought to have a combination from both traits. These traits are yet to be scientifically validated.
The cost varies based on the formulation, volume and strength of the products as well as by manufacturer.
Medical Cannabis products are not subsidised by the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme).
Click here for a comparison information.
Our Doctors only prescribe products that have met TGA GMP standards and have been approved by the TGA for use in Australia. Whenever it is possible our Doctors will always prescribe products that has been made in Australia.
Yes, there are. As an example, you should not use THC based products if you have a history of Schizophrenia or Psychosis.
Additional contraindications may include:
- A family history of Schizophrenia
- Allergy to the products
- Pregnant
- Breast Feeding
- Unstable Cardiovascular Disease
- Severe Liver Disease
- Severe Kidney Disease
- History of Substance Abuse
No. If you are using street cannabis you are not allowed Medical Cannabis.
Quality, consistency and safety that are regulated by the TGA is the main reason. Street cannabis can contain contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals and mould that could be harmful to consume. A recent analysis of street cannabis advertised as CBD only showed almost one third of the products did not contain any detectable CBD
Combining alcohol and cannabis is not recommended. Their effects may potentially combine causing serious consequences.
Yes, it may especially with any other medications metabolised through the cytochrome P450 pathway. This will include certain antibiotics and common medications frequently prescribed by your Doctor.
Be cautious when using:
- Warfarin
- Blood thinning drugs
- Sedatives
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Antidepressants
- Antiepileptics
Yes, it may especially with any other medications metabolised through the cytochrome P450 pathway. This will include certain antibiotics and common medications frequently prescribed by your Doctor.
Be cautious when using:
- Warfarin
- Blood thinning drugs
- Sedatives
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Antidepressants
- Antiepileptics
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Unfortunately the internet being the internet there is never a 100% guarantee against hacking, but we are continually monitoring the server to protect your data.
You can add a website icon to your iPhone Home Screen for quick access.
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in the menu bar. - Scroll down the list of options, then tap Add to Home Screen.
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Add to Home Screen. - The icon appears only on the device when you add it.
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You can add a website icon to your Android Home Screen for quick access.
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