Understanding the Potential Benefits of Medicinal Cannabis
Medicinal cannabis refers to cannabis-based products used for therapeutic purposes under the supervision of a healthcare professional. These products may contain cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or a combination of both.
Research into medicinal cannabis continues to develop. Evidence suggests that cannabis-based medicines may help some people manage certain symptoms and conditions, although the benefits vary depending on the condition, product and individual.
Chronic and Nerve Pain
Medicinal cannabis may help some people experiencing certain types of chronic or neuropathic (nerve) pain.
It is generally considered when conventional treatments have not provided sufficient relief or have caused unacceptable side effects. The potential benefits and risks should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
Some cannabis-based medicines may help reduce muscle stiffness and spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Evidence and individual responses vary, so treatment should be assessed and monitored by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Nausea and Vomiting
Cannabis-based medicines may be considered for nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy when standard treatments have not been sufficiently effective.
Treatment decisions depend on the patient’s circumstances and other medicines being used.
Certain Forms of Epilepsy
CBD-based medicines have demonstrated benefit for some severe forms of epilepsy, particularly certain treatment-resistant epilepsy syndromes.
These treatments require medical supervision and should not be confused with non-prescription cannabis or general CBD products.
CBD and THC
CBD (cannabidiol) does not generally produce the intoxicating effects associated with cannabis. It is used in some medicinal cannabis products and continues to be studied for a range of therapeutic applications.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can produce psychoactive effects and may also have therapeutic effects. Products containing THC can cause side effects and may affect activities such as driving.
The appropriate product and balance of CBD and THC depends on the individual and the reason for treatment.
Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand
Medicinal cannabis products are available in New Zealand by prescription from a healthcare practitioner.
A healthcare professional can assess whether medicinal cannabis may be appropriate based on a person’s condition, previous treatments, other medicines and potential risks.
Medicinal cannabis is not necessarily suitable for everyone and should not be considered a replacement for professional medical care.
Potential Benefits and Limitations
Research into medicinal cannabis is continuing, and the strength of evidence differs significantly between medical conditions.
Potential benefits should therefore be considered alongside possible side effects, interactions with other medicines and uncertainty about effectiveness for some conditions.
Patients considering medicinal cannabis should discuss their individual circumstances with a qualified healthcare professional.
Official Information & Further Reading
For official New Zealand information about medicinal cannabis, prescribing and product standards, visit:
Medicinal Cannabis Information for Consumers — Ministry of Health
https://www.health.govt.nz/regulation-legislation/medicinal-cannabis/information-for-consumers
Information for Health Professionals — Ministry of Health
https://www.health.govt.nz/regulation-legislation/medicinal-cannabis/information-for-health-professionals
Medicinal Cannabis Products Meeting the Minimum Quality Standard — Ministry of Health
https://www.health.govt.nz/regulation-legislation/medicinal-cannabis/information-for-health-professionals/minimum-quality-standard-medicinal-cannabis-products
Important
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Medicinal cannabis may not be appropriate for everyone. Always discuss treatment options, potential benefits, risks and interactions with a qualified healthcare professional.
