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Speaking with a healthcare professional who can help you determine whether medical cannabis is right for you.
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Speaking with a healthcare professional who can help you determine whether medical cannabis is right for you.
How cannabis works in your body
Cannabinoids are the main active ingredients in medical cannabis. They are produced by the human body, found in plants, or can be manufactured in a laboratory for use in prescription medications. THC and CBD are the two most discussed cannabinoids and are found in relatively high concentrations in the plant. Depending on your needs, you may wish to take a product containing THC, CBD, or a balance of both.
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
These are the two most common cannabinoids found in medical cannabis.
THC
THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is responsible for many of the pharmacological effects of medical cannabis, and may be helpful to relieve pain and nausea, help with sleep disorders, and improve appetite. It can cause uphoria.
CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) may be helpful for reducing inflammation, seizures, and anxiety and to improve sleep. It is not known to cause the intoxicating, euphoric effects that THC does. In fact, it may help reduce these effects.
The Endocannabinoid System
We naturally produce cannabinoids—called endocannabinoids—that interact with cell receptors throughout our bodies. Endocannabinoids are like a key, receptors are like a lock, and they fit together to produce effects in the body.
Our endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in many physiological functions, including pain, sleep, inflammation, memory, digestion, immune functions, and neuroprotection.
THC and CBD also interact with the receptors of our ECS. This could partly explain why cannabis seems to have an effect on such a wide variety of symptoms and conditions.
Patient Resources
Patient Registration Form
This must be submitted by the patient to register with Spectrum Therapeutics.
Download PDFPatient Medical Document
This is completed and submitted by a healthcare professional on behalf of their patient.
Download PDFVeteran Affairs Form Consent to Disclose
We are required to provide a patient's information to Veterans Affairs Canada to arrange direct billing.
Download PDFA Guide for Patients
This guide covers terminology, choosing a product, methods of administration, dosing guidance, and tips for staying safe.
Download PDFPatient Dosing Diary
Keep a written record of the effects of your medical cannabis therapy to help you and your healthcare professional track the efficacy of different cannabis products.
Download PDFA Patient's Guide To Reimbursement Options For Medical Cannabis
This card explains private insurance coverage and how to claim income tax credits for medical cannabis in Canada.
Download PDF