Alternative Medicine for Patients.
Alternative medicine has been used throughout Australia since 2016, when it was federally legalised.
What is alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat various medical conditions and alleviate symptoms.
The cannabis plant contains over 100 different compounds called cannabinoids, with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most well-known and studied.
These cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors involved in regulating numerous physiological processes, including mood, pain sensation, appetite, and immune function.
It's important to talk to your doctor when discussing medical conditions
Would I benefit from alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is typically used to aid in a patient’s overall treatment plan. It is usually considered if the patient has tried different treatments with limited success.
Alternative medicine offers a range of potential benefits for individuals suffering from various medical conditions.
For more information on the conditions that are treatable with medicinal cannabis read the TGA's Guide to Medicinal Cannabis.
Patient Information Centre
Latest Patient Articles
Just started? Learn the basics...
Eligibility criteria for alternative medicine.
Patients seeking access to alternative medicine must first be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition where conventional treatments have proven ineffective or unsuitable.
Conditions to be eligible:
✅ Have a condition that has lasted for 3+ months.
✅ Have tried other treatments which didn’t fully improve condition or produced unwanted side effects.
✅ Not be pregnant or have a history of psychosis.
How do you take alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine can be taken in various forms, and the method of administration often depends on the patient's preferences, medical condition, and the specific effects they aim to achieve.
The choice of administration method should be based on individual needs, preferences, and medical advice from your doctor or GP.
Here are some common methods of taking medicinal cannabis.
Administration of Alternative Medicine
-
Oral Ingestion
Oral injection involves consuming cannabis orally, typically in the form of capsules, oils, tinctures, or edibles.
-
Sublingual
This method involves placing cannabis extracts or tinctures under the tongue, where they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
-
Topical
Topical cannabis products, such as creams, lotions, or patches, are applied directly to the skin and absorbed.
Smoking is not an advised method of consumption.
Your doctor will advise the best product(s) for you.
Alternative medicine products come in various forms, each offering unique benefits and modes of administration to suit a patient's preferences and medical needs.
Medical cannabis is typically manufactured from the flowering head of the cannabis plant which contains the highest concentration of cannabinoids.
For more information download the PDF:
TGA: Guide for the use of medicinal cannabis in Australia
Alternative Medicine Products
-
Dried Flower
This is the most traditional form of cannabis involves using the dried buds or flowers of the cannabis plant.
-
CBD Oils
Cannabis oils are concentrated extracts derived from the cannabis plant, typically high in cannabinoids like THC or CBD.
-
Capsules & Tablets
Cannabis capsules and tablets contain measured doses of cannabinoids in a convenient oral dosage form. They are swallowed.
-
Edibles
Edible cannabis products include a wide range of food and beverage items infused with cannabis extracts, such as gummies.
Imported and local products are available for consumption.
Side effects of taking alternative medicine.
Alternative medicine can potentially cause side effects, although they tend to be mild and temporary for most users.
Common side effects may include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite.
These effects are typically dose-dependent and may vary based on the individual's sensitivity to cannabinoids and the specific formulation of the cannabis product used.
For more: Side effects of alternative medicine.