FAQS - New Day Medical FAQs about medicinal cannabis in Australia

Frequently asked questions

Since March 2017, Australia legalised integrative medicine. However, purchasing integrative medicine online remains illegal. These products can only be lawfully obtained from a pharmacy under the provision of a doctor’s prescription.
In Australia, integrative medicine encompasses various pharmaceutical medicine preparations of guaranteed quality intended for therapeutic purposes.
A doctor’s prescription is necessary for integrative medicinal products used to alleviate symptoms of a medical condition or to address the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy. These preparations comprise tablets, oils, tinctures, and various other extracts.
Any patient, with any medical condition can be prescribed integrative medicine by their doctor, if they believe it is clinically appropriate.
For patients, the first step is to discuss integrative medicines with your doctor.
Access to legal integrative medicines is solely through a prescription from your primary doctor or specialist if they deem it advantageous for your condition.
Although any doctor holds the ability to prescribe integrative medicines, they might need to seek Commonwealth and/or State approvals before issuing a prescription.

While the scientific understanding of the medicinal applications of is expanding rapidly, there are still limitations in comprehending its effects on the body.
The Commonwealth’s TGA, in collaboration with Victoria and other States, has crafted informative materials for doctors and patients. These resources outline existing evidence to aid in assessing the potential benefits of integrative medicines for specific conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, nausea, vomiting, pain management, and palliative care.
Numerous other potential applications for treatments derived from products are being explored in ongoing clinical research.
Diverse integrative medicines containing varying combinations of active elements are accessible, tailored for specific conditions.
The usage of integrative medicines with THC might impair a patient’s mental alertness and physical coordination, affecting their capability to perform certain tasks.
Given the limited evidence or guidelines on the recommended waiting period between THC intake and driving, it’s advised that patients refrain from driving or engaging in risky activities, such as operating heavy machinery, while using THC-containing integrative medicine products.
Moreover, in Victoria, it’s considered a criminal offense to drive with detectable THC levels in saliva, blood, or urine. Patients should discuss the implications concerning safe and lawful driving with their doctor.