Start Low and Go Slow: A Beginner’s Guide to Medical Cannabis in Australia
Embarking on the path of medical cannabis can feel as daunting as learning a new skill—much like riding a bike for the first time. Just as you wouldn’t start by pedaling at top speed, it’s best to ease into medical cannabis treatment by adhering to the principle of “start low, go slow.” This gradual approach ensures that patients can safely adjust to their medication while minimising potential side effects.
In this article, we’ll explore why this method is vital, the different types of medical cannabis products available in Australia, how they work in the body, and what to expect during your first medical cannabis consultation in Australia.
What Does “Start Low and Go Slow” Mean?
Medical cannabis dosing, like any medication, involves understanding how substances interact with the body—known as pharmacokinetics. This refers to how medications are absorbed, distributed, metabolised, and eventually excreted. The absorption phase, in particular, plays a crucial role, as it determines how quickly a medication enters the bloodstream.
Different forms of administration—such as swallowing a capsule, using a topical patch, or inhaling a vapor—result in varying absorption rates and effectiveness. Factors like age, body weight, metabolism, and overall health also influence how medications, including medical cannabis, affect the body. This knowledge helps healthcare providers in Australia develop safe, personalised treatment plans.
By starting with a low dose of medical cannabis and increasing it gradually, you give your body time to adjust, reducing the risk of unwanted side effects while allowing your doctor to fine-tune the dose for optimal results.
Why Is This Important for Medical Cannabis in Australia?
The “start low, go slow” strategy is particularly essential when it comes to medical cannabis due to its wide range of products and potencies. In Australia, patients have access to various forms of medical cannabis, each with different effects. But before we delve into the different product types, it’s important to understand the key compounds found in medical cannabis:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): This is the compound responsible for the psychoactive “high” commonly associated with cannabis. THC-dominant products are used for conditions such as chronic pain, appetite stimulation, and nausea. However, high doses can lead to adverse effects like anxiety, paranoia, and even hallucinations, especially for beginners or patients sensitive to THC.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t induce a “high.” CBD-dominant products are praised for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, making them popular for reducing anxiety, seizures, and chronic inflammation. While generally well-tolerated, high doses of CBD can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite.
- Balanced THC/CBD Products: These combine both compounds to offer a synergistic mix of therapeutic benefits, often providing pain relief with fewer psychoactive effects.
The method of consumption also plays a significant role in how quickly and for how long the effects are felt. In Australia, patients may use medical cannabis in the following forms:
- Inhalation (Smoking or Vaporising): Inhaled cannabis delivers effects rapidly, often within minutes, because the cannabinoids are absorbed through the lungs. The effects usually last between 1 to 3 hours.
- Oral Ingestion (Edibles, Capsules, Tinctures): When cannabis is ingested, it takes longer to feel the effects—anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours—because the cannabinoids must pass through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream. However, the effects can last longer, up to 8 hours or more.
Given the variation in onset and duration of effects depending on the method of ingestion, starting with low doses is crucial for ensuring a safe and manageable experience.
How to Safely Begin Your Medical Cannabis Journey in Australia
The first step to starting your medical cannabis journey in Australia involves consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Your doctor will guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate dosage and product, based on your medical history, current health conditions, and personal needs.
- Low Initial Dosing: Australian doctors typically recommend starting with a very low dose of THC or CBD—such as 2.5 mg, depending on the product type. This allows your body to adjust slowly, reducing the likelihood of side effects.
- Monitor Effects: Pay close attention to how your body reacts after taking the initial dose. Many patients find it helpful to keep a journal of their experiences, noting any effects or side effects.
- Gradual Increase: Your doctor may gradually increase your dose by 1-2 mg every few days, allowing you to find the optimal dose for symptom relief without overloading your system. This slow increase helps ensure that any side effects remain manageable.
- Track Progress: Regularly recording your dosages and how you feel after each dose can be invaluable for both you and your healthcare provider in Australia. This data helps adjust your treatment plan for the best possible results.
- Listen to Your Body: It’s important to recognise the signals your body sends you. If you experience any discomfort, such as dizziness or heightened anxiety, these could be signs that your dose is too high. Reducing your dose and consulting your healthcare provider will help you get back on track.
What to Expect During a Medical Cannabis Consultation in Australia
In Australia, medical cannabis consultations often take place via telemedicine, offering you the convenience of receiving care from the comfort of your home. During your initial consultation, your doctor will review your medical history and discuss your symptoms, goals, and treatment options.
Here’s what typically happens during a consultation:
- Review of Medical History: Your doctor will carefully review your health records to ensure that medical cannabis is a suitable treatment option for your condition.
- Product Recommendations: Based on your specific needs, your doctor will recommend the type of medical cannabis product that’s best for you—whether it’s a THC-dominant product for pain relief or a balanced THC/CBD product for managing symptoms like anxiety or inflammation.
- Dosage Plan: Your doctor will provide a tailored dosing plan, explaining how to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time.
- Follow-up Appointments: Ongoing follow-ups are critical for ensuring your treatment remains effective. Regular check-ins allow your doctor to adjust your dose if necessary and address any concerns you may have.
By adhering to the “start low, go slow” principle, patients across Australia can benefit from medical cannabis safely and effectively. This cautious approach minimises side effects and maximises therapeutic outcomes, allowing you to take control of your health and wellbeing.
