An overview of medical cannabis in Australia

In Australia, cannabis medication is regulated under a national scheme known as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Special Access Scheme (SAS). The SAS enables patients with specific medical conditions to access cannabis-based medicines for therapeutic use when other treatments have been unsuccessful or are considered inappropriate. Let's explore an overview of cannabis medication in Australia in narrative format, supported by references.

Under the Australian Poisons Standard, cannabis is classified as a Schedule 4 drug, meaning it is available only with a prescription and is not legally permitted for recreational use (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021). The TGA has approved the use of cannabis-based medicines for certain medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and palliative care (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021). However, eligibility for treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Cannabis medicines in Australia can generally be categorized into two types: medicinal cannabis products and pharmaceutical-grade cannabis-derived products. Medicinal cannabis products are derived from cannabis plants and are available in various formulations, such as oils, capsules, and sprays. Pharmaceutical-grade cannabis-derived products, such as nabiximols (Sativex®), are standardized medications containing specific cannabinoids in precise amounts (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021).

To access cannabis-based medicines, patients must obtain a valid prescription from a TGA-authorized medical practitioner. Only authorized prescribers can prescribe these medications, and prescriptions must comply with specific TGA requirements (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021). Dispensing is carried out by licensed pharmacists.

Patient eligibility for cannabis-based medicines requires a genuine medical need and previous unsuccessful or unsuitable treatments. Informed consent and close monitoring by healthcare providers are also essential during treatment (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021).

Cannabis-based medicines can be imported from overseas, subject to strict regulations and permits. Additionally, Australia has a tightly regulated local production scheme that permits cultivation, manufacture, and supply of cannabis-based medicines with the appropriate license from the Office of Drug Control (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021).

It's important to note that cannabis-based medicines in Australia are not subsidized by the government's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Therefore, patients are responsible for covering the full cost of the medication, which can vary depending on factors such as product, dose, and formulation. Private health insurance may not cover the cost of cannabis-based medicines (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2021).

Please note that regulations and guidelines regarding cannabis medication in Australia are subject to change. For up-to-date and accurate information, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or refer to the latest information provided by the TGA.

References:

Therapeutic Goods Administration. (2021). Access to medicinal cannabis products: Using medicinal cannabis in Australia. Retrieved from https://www.tga.gov.au/access-medicinal-cannabis-products-using-medicinal-cannabis-australia