Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently become a popular alternative medicine in Canada, especially since legalization (despite it having been able to be prescribed since the early 2000’s). Available in many formats, CBD oil (or gel caps) is the most common and is used for inflammation, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. By acting on our internal endocannabinoid system (which helps regulate multiple biological functions such as mood and sleep), CBD can help bring our body closer to homeostasis.
“Many of us have heard of some of the transmitter systems within our bodies, such as the sympathetic nervous system, which gives us our fight-or-flight response. Fewer have heard of the more recently discovered endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is amazing when you consider that the ECS is critical for almost every aspect of our moment-to-moment functioning.” – Peter Grinspoon, MD, Harvard Health Publishing.
Because CBD is not a one size fits all medication, more Canadians are looking to obtain medical guidance when using it to treat various conditions and symptoms. Obtaining medical guidance from a doctor ensures they can use it safely and effectively to best manage their unwanted symptoms. Being able to work with a healthcare practitioner gives Canadians the support they need to dose properly, take it safely with other medications, and pick product formats that best meet their needs.
Why Your Family Doctor Might Not Prescribe Medical Cannabis
Being a relatively new medicine (legally), most doctors did not get taught about medical cannabis, cannabinoids (like CBD), or the endocannabinoid system in school. This can make it difficult when patients come to them with questions or suggesting the medication as an option for themselves. A family physician may not have enough training, knowledge, or experience on the medication to safely prescribe it or to guide the patient on how to effectively use it. One 2021 survey of Canadian healthcare practitioners found that only 6% received training in medical cannabis in their professional schooling. “56% felt uncomfortable or ambivalent regarding their knowledge of medical cannabis, and 27% were unfamiliar with the requirements for obtaining medical cannabis in Canada.”
The prescribing process for medical cannabis differs from a typical pharmaceutical; rather than picking it up from a pharmacy, the medical document with the patient’s daily allowance and THC limit must be sent to a Licensed Producer who then mails the medicine to the patient’s residence. With all these extra things to consider, many doctors will not prescribe medications they are not confidently trained in (and understandably so!).
Other concerns some physicians may also have include potential side effects, hesitations due to personal beliefs or stigmas, or just little confidence in the efficacy of the medication itself. With hundreds of published research journals on medical cannabis coming out each year, we are slowly seeing more healthcare professionals expanding their views on the plant and its medicinal properties.
Where Can I Find A Doctor Who Prescribes CBD?
There are specialized clinics, physicians, and nurse practitioners in Canada who have years of clinical experience prescribing medical cannabis (including CBD) and are the best option when looking to be explore medical marijuana as a potential medicine. Clinics like Apollo Cannabis Clinics offer free appointments Canada-wide and have helped over 100,000 Canadians. With evidence-based prescribing and an entire support team to help educate and guide patients, they are available 7 days a week to assist with dosing, product selection, ordering, and more.
Family physicians and other specialists often refer their patients to Apollo, who can then help keep your doctor in your circle of care (informed with updates on your prescription and progress). That said, if your family doctor is not interested in referring you to Apollo, they are still able to accept you as a patient with no referral.
Working with knowledgeable healthcare providers ensures your safety, confidence, and ultimately your success in mitigating your unwanted symptoms.
“Fast and easy registration. Knowledgeable and informative staff. Great customer service with a wide selection of products from the top LPs in Canada shout out to Ellaine and all the staff for helping me out with my medical marijuana” – Paddy S., 5 Star 2023 Google Review of Apollo.
What To Expect When Getting a CBD Oil Prescription in Canada
During a medical cannabis consultation, you will first need to fill out a triage form so that the healthcare practitioner can assess your medical history. From there, you will discuss why you are looking for medical cannabis, your history of using any cannabis products, other medications that have worked or not worked, and what product formats or ingestion methods will be most suitable for your symptom management and personal comfortability. It’s important to be truthful with the medical marijuana doctor or nurse practitioner so you can work together to find the best potential results. Here, you will have a chance to ask questions and highlight potential concerns you may have. After your appointment, a patient care specialist will assist you in setting up your prescription with a licensed producer so you can order your medication by phone or online.
Conclusion
The first step is to discuss medical cannabis as an option with your family doctor. Bring in supporting material to show why you think it could be an effective treatment option for you. While they may be on board with you trying it, they may not have the expertise or time to help you with the prescription, education, and account with a licensed producer. To be referred to Apollo, you can print out a referral form to give to your doctor – as mentioned before, Apollo doesn’t require a referral, but it’s always preferred when they can work in collaboration with your other healthcare providers!
Obtaining a legal medical cannabis (CBD) prescription has many benefits including ongoing support, a personalized treatment plan, dosing guidance, product assistance selection, and more. Apollo is here to offer free appointments and assist you 7 days a week by phone and email. To book your free appointment with a medical cannabis specialist, click here.
