Medicinal cannabis has rapidly evolved from a fringe topic to a mainstream consideration in modern medical practice. Health professionals are increasingly encountering patients interested in or already using cannabis-based therapies. With this shift, it is crucial for doctors and other healthcare providers to stay informed about the latest developments, regulations, and therapeutic potentials of medicinal cannabis.

The Science Behind Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal cannabis primarily interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signalling system identified in the early 1990s. The ECS plays a critical role in regulating a range of functions and processes, including sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and pain. The system comprises of endocannabinoids, receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids.

Different cannabis compounds, notably THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), have distinct interactions with the ECS. While THC binds directly to CB1 receptors—predominantly found in the brain—producing psychoactive effects, CBD interacts more subtly with the ECS, often tempering the psychoactive effects of THC and exhibiting a broad profile of potential therapeutic benefits.

Legal and Regulatory Landscape

The legal framework surrounding medicinal cannabis can be daunting. Regulations differ significantly across jurisdictions, impacting everything from prescribing practices to patient access. In Australia, medicinal cannabis is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and health professionals need to navigate a landscape of both federal and state laws. Notably, medicinal cannabis is prescribed for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD, anxiety and insomnia, although under stringent regulatory oversight.

Therapeutic Benefits and Considerations

Medicinal cannabis shows promise in several therapeutic areas, particularly in pain management, nausea control, and seizure reduction. It’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties are being actively researched, with some evidence supporting its efficacy in conditions such as:

  • Chronic pain and fibromyalgia
  • Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
  • Multiple sclerosis spasticity
  • Epilepsy, especially treatment-resistant forms

However, there are noteworthy contraindications and side effects. Patients with a history of psychosis, certain heart conditions, or substance abuse may not be suitable candidates for medicinal cannabis. Additionally, potential side effects—ranging from dizziness and dry mouth to more severe cognitive and motor impairment—necessitate mindful prescribing and vigilant patient monitoring.

Upcoming Educational Opportunities

To support health professionals in mastering the intricacies of medicinal cannabis, GPEx is offering two valuable webinars:

Mastering Medicinal Cannabis Prescribing

Designed for doctors who are current prescribers of medicinal cannabis, this evidence-based 60-minute webinar led by Dr Orit Holtzman covers:

  • The endocannabinoid system
  • Legal regulations
  • Pharmacokinetics of different dosage forms
  • Therapeutic benefits
  • Contraindications for prescribing
  • Patient monitoring and managing side effects

Dr Holtzman, a respected cannabinoid medicine practitioner and the 2024 Cannabiz Prescribing Healthcare Practitioner of the Year, will guide participants to gain confidence in prescribing cannabis-based medicinal products and understanding their applications. This webinar is CPD accredited with RACGP and ACRRM.

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Demystifying Medicinal Cannabis for Non-Prescribers

Aimed at non-prescribing medical practitioners to learn the basics about medicinal cannabis, this webinar introduces participants to:

  • Basic science behind medicinal cannabis
  • Legal and regulatory considerations
  • Therapeutic applications and side effects
  • When and how to refer a patient to a prescribing doctor

Also led by Dr Orit Holtzman, this session ensures participants gain essential knowledge and comfort in discussing medicinal cannabis with patients. It is also CPD accredited with RACGP and ACRRM.

Learn more