In Australia, medicinal cannabis edibles are not yet available for prescription. However, this may change in the future as the Australian government has recently made moves to legalise the use of medicinal cannabis products (including edibles) for certain medical conditions.

There is a growing body of evidence to support the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, particularly for certain chronic pain conditions. Edibles offer a convenient and discrete way to consume cannabis, which may be preferable for some patients.

If and when medicinal cannabis edibles become available in Australia, they will likely be subject to strict regulation surrounding production, labeling, and dosage. This will ensure that patients have access to safe and effective products.

What are Medicinal Cannabis Edibles?

Medicinal cannabis edibles are food products that contain extracts from the cannabis plant. Cannabis edibles can come in many different forms, including baked goods, candy, and capsules.

The active ingredients in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, are thought to provide therapeutic benefits for certain medical conditions. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD does not produce this psychoactive effect. Some studies have shown that CBD can actually counteract some of the effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia. This may make CBD a more appealing option for some people who are seeking the potential medical benefits of cannabis extract without the “high.”

CBD is available in a variety of different forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, capsules, and topical creams. It can also be added to food and beverages or taken on its own. The amount of CBD in each product can vary, so it’s important to read the labels carefully before purchasing anything. Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.

As with any new supplement, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to use CBD. This is especially important if you have a medical condition or take medication for other conditions. CBD may interact with some medications, so it’s important to check with your doctor before using it.

How Can You Use Medicinal Cannabis Edibles?

There are many ways to use medical cannabis edibles. You can add them to food and beverages or take them on their own. The amount of CBD in each product can vary, so it’s important to read the labels carefully before purchasing anything. Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.

What Can Medicinal Cannabis Edibles Treat?

Medicinal cannabis in general may be able to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy
• Muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury

Currently, not many clinical trials have been conducted to specifically test the efficacy of medicinal cannabis infused edibles. As a result, there is not a lot of scientific evidence to support their use for any specific condition. However, some people do report experiencing relief from various symptoms after consuming cannabis edibles.

What are the Pros and Cons of Medicinal Cannabis Edibles?

The most common pro concerning edibles is that it’s a discrete way to take medicinal cannabis. They’re also easy to dose and have long-lasting effects.

However, the effects of edibles can be unpredictable and may take up to four hours to kick in. It’s important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. Be sure to store edibles in a cool, dark place out of the reach of children and pets.

Like all forms of medicinal cannabis (for example, smoking cannabis), there are some risks associated with taking edibles. These include:

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety or paranoia

Consuming too much of a cannabis edible can result in an unpleasant experience known as “greening out.” This usually happens when someone ingests more THC than they are used to. Symptoms can include extreme anxiety, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Greening out can be scary, but it is not dangerous and will generally subside within a few hours.

It’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to cannabis, so it’s always best to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. Be sure to read the label carefully and pay attention to the serving size before consuming an edible. And always remember to store edibles away from children and pets.

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the edibles and discuss medicinal cannabis effects with your doctor. As with all forms of medicinal cannabis, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting to take edibles. They can help you understand the risks and benefits, as well as how to best dose for your individual needs.

Where Can You Get Medicinal Cannabis Edibles?

Medicinal cannabis is legal in Australia, and is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The Therapeutic Goods Administration controls the importation, manufacture, sale and supply of therapeutic goods in Australia.

Only products that have been assessed by the TGA and approved for human use can be legally supplied in Australia. Currently, there are no TGA-approved medicinal edible cannabis products available for commercial sale in Australia.

In order to obtain approval from the TGA, patients must first receive a valid prescription from an authorised medical practitioner. They then need to submit an application to the TGA, along with a supporting statement from their doctor.

Once the TGA has assessed the application and approved it, patients can import their medicinal cannabis product from an overseas supplier. The product must be for their own personal use and must be for a legitimate medical purpose.

FAQs - Medicinal Cannabis Edibles

Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions concerning the use of legal medicinal cannabis products and edibles in Australia.

Is it legal to import medicinal cannabis products into Australia?

Yes, it is legal to import medicinal cannabis products into Australia for personal use, provided that you have been approved by the TGA and have a valid prescription from an authorised medical practitioner.

Can I grow my own medicinal cannabis in Australia?

No, it is not currently legal to grow your own medicinal cannabis in Australia. Only licensed growers who have been authorised by the TGA are allowed to cultivate cannabis for medicinal purposes (not recreational cannabis or other unapproved medicinal cannabis products).