Medical cannabis has been legalized in several countries around the world
It is estimated that around 128,000 patients in Germany currently have access to legal cannabis(1). Thus, medical cannabis is becoming more widespread in this country. The number of cannabis prescriptions is growing every year(2). In addition, the Bundestag is now actively discussing the issue of recreational cannabis use and many experts are confident that the German parliament will soon fully legalize cannabis.
Many people are aware that medical cannabis is a medicine that can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. What is less well known, however, is that there are many different varieties of medical cannabis that have different effects and can thus be used for different diseases. About 700 varieties have been named and described (1). Which cannabis strain is best for a patient depends on factors such as the cannabinoid and terpene profile of the strain and the condition being treated.
No danger of recourse for doctors when prescribing cannabis
Since March 2017, doctors have been allowed to prescribe medical cannabis for therapeutic purposes on a BtM-prescription. The prerequisite for this is that the medical cannabis is produced under state supervision.
For this purpose, lawmakers have amended several regulations with the law known as the "Cannabis Law". Cannabis is now a narcotic that can be traded and prescribed according to Annex III of the BtM-Act. However, this is only the case if a cannabis agency supervises its production.
Hemp oil is an edible oil obtained by the cold pressing of hemp seeds. It contains several ingredients and active substances that can promote health and well-being. Hemp seed oil has probably been used by humans for around 10,000 years and has recently been gaining popularity as a potentially beneficial addition to skin and hair care. Non-psychoactive and rich in high-quality nutrients, hemp seed oil has a balanced composition of essential fatty acids such as omega 3 and 6, as well as linoleic acid.
With the entry into force of the "Cannabis as Medicine" Act on 10 March 2017, the possibilities for prescribing cannabis medicines were expanded. This means that medicinal cannabis flowers have become reimbursable by the statutory health insurance funds under certain preconditions.[1] Medical cannabis has since then increasingly become the focus of public interest. How can patients benefit from cannabis-based medicines for various diseases? How and where can one get a prescription? What advice should one follow? This article provides answers to these and other questions and offers an up-to-date overview.
