Frequently Asked Questions
-
What are CBD and THC?
There are chemical compounds in medical cannabis called cannabinoids; there are many different cannabinoids in medical cannabis, with THC and CBD being the two main active cannabinoids within the plant.
THC is responsible for the psychoactive and euphoric effects of the medical cannabis plant, and has various clinical applications. CBD is not psychoactive and not addictive, and is used to treat a variety of clinical conditions. CannaWay Clinic will help you determine the ratio of THC and CBD to achieve therapeutic benefit.
-
How should I store my medical cannabis?
Store your medical medical cannabis in a cool, dry place. Keep your medication out of reach of children.
-
How can I take my medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis products can be inhaled, ingested or applied topically through different product types. Most CannaWay Clinic patients take their medication in an oil formulation; a Patient Educator will discuss the various options and make a recommendation as part of your treatment plan.
-
When should I take my medical cannabis?
Based on our expert physicians, the rule of thumb is to start low and increase as needed. Please refer to the dosing schedule provided by your Patient Educator. You can reach out to them at any time with questions about your treatment plan.
-
Why come to CannaWay Clinic instead of going to a recreational dispensary?
If you are looking to treat a specific ailment or health issue with medical cannabis, we advise against self-medicating with recreational cannabis products.
There are many benefits to working with a medical team to obtain a medical assessment and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. When you obtain a medical document, you can order medical cannabis products directly from the medical cannabis producer as recommended by your medical team. This provides medical patients with unique access to certain products, often higher in CBD. Additionally, medical cannabis can be claimed on your tax return, and may be covered by your insurance company depending on your plan.
-
Can I drive when taking my medication?
It is advised that patients do not drive four hours after inhalation, six hours after ingestion, and eight hours after experiencing psychoactive effects. It remains the individual’s responsibility to ensure that they are not impaired while driving, and to check with their employer regarding workplace policies.
-
Can I travel with my medication?
You can travel anywhere in Canada with your medical cannabis. At this time, you cannot take your medical cannabis on international trips, which includes the USA. Even if you are traveling to a state where medical cannabis is legal, you cannot bring it across the border.
-
Does OHIP cover the cost of my medication?
Unfortunately OHIP does not currently cover the cost of medical cannabis medication. However, insurance or other entities may cover medical cannabis; your Patient Educator will help you to determine if the cost of your medical cannabis is covered.
-
How will I receive my medication?
Medical cannabis is delivered to your home from a licensed medical cannabis producer. You Patient Educator will help you register with the right licensed medical cannabis producer for you, so that you can order your medication online or over the phone. Usually your medical cannabis will arrive only a few days after placing your order. If you require support with the purchasing process, your Patient Educator can help you at any time.
-
Can I keep taking my current medications?
Unless advised by your medical team (i.e. family physician), you need to continue taking all of your current medications. Work with your physician to reduce the use of other medications if this is one of your goals. Many patients are able to reduce the use of traditional pharmaceutical drugs as their medical cannabis treatment begins to take effect.
-
I have been taking my medication but am not experiencing any relief, what do I do?
It is safe to continue increasing your dosage according to the treatment plan that your Patient Educator provided to you at your appointment. If you still do not experience any relief, please schedule a follow up appointment to adjust your treatment plan.
-
Can I have a copy of my medical document?
Yes you may, just ask your Patient Educator.
-
What is the difference between medical cannabis flower and oil?
Medical cannabis flower is inhaled, has a fast onset of action (two to five minutes), and the effects typically last two to four hours. Flower is best suited for patients suffering from severe acute symptoms.
Medical cannabis oil is ingested, has a slower onset of action (1.5 to 2 hours), and the effects typically last two to six hours. Oil is easy to dose and is often prescribed for patients suffering from chronic symptoms.
-
Can I get addicted to CBD?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD has no addictive or abuse potential.