Queensland’s Current Laws on Medical Marijuana
In 2016, medical marijuana was legalized in Queensland, along with the rest of Australia. However, the use of medical marijuana is still heavily regulated under the Queensland Medicinal Cannabis Scheme. To be eligible for medical marijuana, patients must have a qualifying medical condition that has not responded to conventional treatments, and must obtain a prescription from an authorized doctor.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
The following medical conditions are considered eligible for medical marijuana under the Queensland Medicinal Cannabis Scheme:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Glaucoma
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Tourette’s Syndrome
- Crohn’s Disease
- Huntington’s Disease
- Motor Neurone Disease
- Neuropathic pain due to spinal cord injury
Authorized Doctors
Only authorized doctors can prescribe medical marijuana in Queensland. These doctors must apply to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and obtain a Special Access Scheme (SAS) approval. Once approved, the doctor can prescribe medical marijuana to their patients.
Understanding Medical Marijuana
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is the use of the cannabis plant, or its extracts, to treat medical conditions. The plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The two most well-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC vs. CBD
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” associated with recreational use. However, THC also has medicinal properties, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. CBD, on the other hand, does not produce a high and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure effects. Medical marijuana products can contain varying amounts of THC and CBD, depending on their intended use.
Types of Medical Marijuana Products
Medical marijuana products come in various forms, including:
- Dried cannabis flowers
- Cannabis oil
- Capsules
- Tinctures
- Edibles
- Topicals
Each form of medical marijuana has its advantages and disadvantages, and patients should work with their authorized doctor to determine which product is best for their condition.
Misconceptions About Medical Marijuana
Medical Marijuana is Addictive
There is a common misconception that medical marijuana is addictive. However, studies have shown that the addiction potential of medical marijuana is low compared to other substances, such as opioids. Additionally, medical marijuana has been shown to be an effective alternative to opioids for pain management.
Medical Marijuana is a Gateway Drug
Another common misconception is that medical marijuana is a gateway drug that leads to the use of harder drugs. However, studies have shown that medical marijuana use does not increase the likelihood of developing a substance use disorder.
Medical Marijuana is Unsafe
Some people believe that medical marijuana is unsafe and can have harmful side effects. While medical marijuana can have side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and increased appetite, these side effects are generally mild and well-tolerated. Additionally, medical marijuana has been shown to be safe and effective for treating a variety of medical conditions.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana is a complex and heavily regulated topic in Queensland, but it has the potential to help many people with qualifying medical conditions. By understanding the legal landscape, the different types of medical marijuana products, and the misconceptions surrounding medical marijuana, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options.
