FAQs
What is CBD and THC?
CBD and THC are types of cannabinoids, of which there are roughly 138 others. CBD is non-psychoactive, while THC is responsible for the psychoactive ‘euphoric’ effects.
Is medical cannabis legal in Australia?
Medical cannabis has been legal in Australia since March 2017. It can only be obtained from a pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription.
Do I need a health summary to be seen?
A health summary is essential as this allows the doctor to have a more comprehensive overview of one’s health history and tailor your prescription to your specific medical conditions and medications that you are taking
What is the difference between a referral and a health summary? What should a health summary include?
A referral is when your GP specifically endorses this treatment. Some GPs are not familiar with it and understandably, may not feel comfortable with endorsing its use. In these instances, you can request that instead they provide you with your health summary which should include a list of all your medical conditions, medications that you are taking, allergies, recent blood tests and investigations relevant to the condition for which you are seeking help for
What does the process look like from the first call to when I receive the medicine?
A booking can be made with our lovely receptionists and you will be sent some information via email and pre-consultation forms to fill out (mandatory)
Your initial consult will be double appointment going through your symptoms, indications for treatment and choosing the right product for you. During that appointment an applications for medication is completed through either the TGA Special Access Scheme or Authorised Prescriber Scheme, with a turn around time of around 48 hours
A subsequent (prescription) telehealth consult will be conducted once TGA approval is attained, and the prescription will be sent either via e-prescription to your phone or email, or if you attend our practice in person the prescription can be printed. This prescription can be used at any pharmacy that dispenses these products and we will work with you if you have particular brand or formulation preferences
Your product can then be picked up from the pharmacy, or alternatively most pharmacies offer express post to your home for under $10. Total turn around time between initial consult and starting treatment is usually around 1 week at current
What happens if I do not achieve any benefits or results with this treatment?
It is important to understand that results will take time (weeks to months). Doses are titrated to achieve maximal clinical effect with minimal side effects. Different patients respond to different formulations in different ways and there is a degree of trial and error expected in order to find the optimal formulation for you. Nonetheless, in a small subset of patients, one may not achieve significant benefit despite months of trial and error
What are the costs for medication?
The cost of medication varies by product and pharmacy and is discussed during your consultation.
How do I qualify for a medicare rebate?
If you have attended our practice physically within the past 12 months (including as a new patient), there will be a rebate for every subsequent consult
Does the doctor prescribe only specific products from certain companies?
No, the doctors are able to prescribe all products which have been passed verification standards by the relevant authorities
Can I have alcohol and other illicit substances whilst on this treatment?
It is not advised to have alcohol or other illicit substances whilst on this treatment as it can potentiate the side effects and cause more severe reactions.
Can I drive whilst on this treatment?
This is a complex topic and should be discussed with your treating doctor. It depends on what type of product you are taking. It is illegal for any patient being treated with a medicine containing THC to drive while undergoing treatment.
Does this treatment interact with other medications?
Interactions are possible and therefore it is essential that you have a health summary with an active list of all current medications which you are taking. Side effects will be closely monitored during your treatment including liver function as CBD/THC is metabolised by the liver
How do I administer the oil?
Oils are taken via a dropper or a syringe which have measurements on them allowing you to see exactly how much you are taking. It is best taken with something fatty (ie peanut butter, avocado, yoghurt) for optimal absorption. A drop should be placed under the tongue, swirled in the mouth for 60-90 seconds then swallowed.
How do I take the dried herb?
The dried herb should ideally be ground and placed within a medically approved vapouriser which allows it to be heated at the optimal temperature for achieving the most efficient therapeutic effect.
Before your first appointment
Alternative healthcare is not suitable for everyone. Please check the points below before booking - they are the most common reasons we cannot proceed at a first appointment.
1. Bring a current health summary. We need an up-to-date health summary from your regular GP, listing your medical history, current medications and treatments you have already tried. You can ask your GP practice for one, or share your My Health Record. Without it, we usually cannot proceed with treatment at the first visit.
2. Some mental health conditions need a psychiatrist's letter. If you have (or have had) bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, psychosis, borderline personality disorder or drug addiction, we can only consider treatment with a letter of support from your treating psychiatrist. Please arrange this before booking.
3. Not sure if you're eligible? Call us on (02) 9550 0288 before you book and we can check.
4. Other things we need to know about: family history of schizophrenia or psychosis, significant heart, liver or kidney disease, and nicotine or alcohol dependence. These don't always rule out treatment, but please mention them when you call or book.