Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Plant-Based Medicine in Australia

Introduction

Plants have been used in traditional health practices across many cultures, and plant-derived substances continue to be studied in modern medicine. Cannabis is one example of a plant that has attracted scientific and public interest because it contains compounds known as cannabinoids.

In Australia, medicinal cannabis is a regulated area of healthcare and research. Understanding the plant, its compounds, the available evidence and the relevant regulatory framework is important when considering this subject.

Plant-Based Medicine and Research

Plant-based medicine refers broadly to the use of substances derived from plants in health-related practices. Examples of plants discussed in traditional and contemporary health contexts include eucalyptus, tea tree, peppermint and lemon myrtle.

Traditional knowledge and modern scientific research are different forms of knowledge. Claims about the safety or effectiveness of a particular plant preparation should be assessed using appropriate evidence for that preparation and its intended use. The fact that a substance is plant-derived does not, by itself, establish that it is safe or effective.

Understanding Cannabis and Cannabinoids

Cannabis contains a range of naturally occurring chemical compounds, including cannabinoids. Two commonly discussed cannabinoids are:

Cannabis products can differ considerably in their cannabinoid content, concentration, formulation and intended use. Information about one product should not automatically be applied to another.

Medicinal Cannabis and Medical Research

Medicinal cannabis products are derived from cannabis plants and may contain CBD, THC or a combination of cannabinoids. They are available in different formulations, including oral liquids, capsules, sprays and dried herb.

Researchers have investigated cannabis-based products in relation to a range of health conditions and symptoms, including certain forms of epilepsy, chronic pain, nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatment, and symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis.

The amount and quality of evidence varies according to the condition, cannabinoid, product and formulation being studied. Findings from research into a specific pharmaceutical-grade product cannot necessarily be applied to other cannabis products. Research interest or a history of prescribing does not, by itself, establish that a product is effective for every person or condition.

Medicinal cannabis should not be assumed to be a substitute for established medical care. Decisions about treatment require an individual clinical assessment by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Product Quality, Safety and Considerations

Cannabis-based products are not all the same. Their composition, concentration, quality and route of administration can vary. These differences are relevant when assessing potential effects and risks.

Products containing THC may cause impairment and other adverse effects. CBD may also cause side effects and interact with other medicines. People should not assume that a product is risk-free because it is plant-derived or described as natural.

Product information, manufacturing standards, quality controls and the regulatory status of a product are important considerations. Health-related decisions should be based on reliable information and professional advice rather than general claims about cannabis or individual strains.

Regulation of Medicinal Cannabis in Australia

Medicinal cannabis products are regulated as therapeutic goods in Australia. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) explains that most medicinal cannabis products accessed in Australia are unapproved therapeutic goods and have not been assessed by the TGA for safety, quality or effectiveness.

Access to unapproved products may occur through specified pathways, including the Special Access Scheme, the Authorised Prescriber Scheme and clinical trials. Requirements apply to these pathways, and access is arranged through relevant healthcare practitioners.

The regulatory status of a product matters. Consumers and healthcare professionals should consult current TGA information and relevant state or territory requirements rather than assuming that all cannabis products have the same approval or access status.

Further Information

For current information about medicinal cannabis, product regulation and access pathways in Australia, consult the following official resources:

This page is provided for general educational purposes. It is not medical advice, a treatment recommendation or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.