What’s the Difference Between Marijuana and Medical Marijuana?

In recent years, there’s been growing interest in marijuana for its potential health benefits, but it’s important to distinguish between recreational marijuana and medical marijuana. While both come from the same plant, their uses, regulations, and effects can be quite different. In this blog, we’ll tell you about medical marijuana and work, the key differences between marijuana and medical marijuana and how they relate to health, legality, and costs in Australia.

What Is Marijuana?

Marijuana, often referred to as cannabis, is a plant that has been used for centuries for various purposes, including recreational, medicinal, and industrial. The plant contains compounds known as cannabinoids, the two most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects that make people feel “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and has been linked to potential health benefits without causing a high.

What Is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana refers to the use of cannabis or its components, particularly THC and CBD, to treat specific health conditions or symptoms. Unlike recreational marijuana, medical marijuana is used under the supervision of a healthcare professional to manage or alleviate conditions such as chronic pain, nausea (especially from chemotherapy), epilepsy, anxiety, and muscle spasms.

Medical marijuana and work often go hand in hand in treating symptoms that may interfere with daily life, especially in conditions where conventional medications haven’t been effective. It can be an option for people suffering from chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions where traditional treatments may not work or have undesirable side effects.

What’s the Difference Between Marijuana and Medical Marijuana?

1. Purpose and Use

As mentioned, the main difference lies in the purpose. Medical marijuana is used to alleviate symptoms of certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, or nausea. It is typically prescribed by a doctor as part of a treatment plan, while recreational marijuana is used primarily for its psychoactive effects, to get high or relaxed, and is not typically prescribed for therapeutic reasons.

2. THC and CBD Content

Both marijuana and medical marijuana contain THC and CBD, but the ratios of these compounds can differ significantly. In medical marijuana, the levels of THC are typically controlled to provide the maximum therapeutic benefit without causing excessive psychoactive effects. For example, someone using medical marijuana for pain relief may be prescribed a higher ratio of CBD to THC to minimise any psychoactive effects.

Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, often has higher THC content, which can result in more pronounced psychoactive effects or a “high.” This makes it less suited for medicinal purposes, where the goal is to manage symptoms without altering consciousness too much.

3. Legal Status

One of the most significant differences between marijuana and medical marijuana is their legal status. In many places, including Australia, marijuana is illegal for recreational use, but medical marijuana can be legally prescribed under strict regulations. In Australia, the use of medical cannabis is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and can only be accessed with a prescription for specific medical conditions.

This legal distinction means that how to get medical marijuana in Australia is highly regulated. You must go through a registered healthcare professional who can evaluate your medical history, determine whether medical marijuana is suitable for you, and apply for access on your behalf.

4. Formulation and Dosage

When it comes to medical marijuana, the formulation and dosage are carefully considered and prescribed based on the individual’s condition. Doctors may recommend different forms of medical cannabis, including oils, capsules, or dried flowers, each with varying concentrations of THC and CBD to suit the patient’s needs. The dosage is also closely monitored to ensure that the patient gets the most effective treatment without overdoing it.

For recreational marijuana, there is no specific dosage or guidance, and users typically consume it according to personal preference or experience. The quality and potency can vary widely depending on the source, making it harder to regulate.

How to Get Medical Marijuana in Australia

If you’re considering medical marijuana as a treatment option, it’s important to understand how to get medical marijuana in Australia. The process starts with a consultation with a medical professional who is registered and experienced in prescribing medical cannabis. Your doctor will assess your condition and decide if medical marijuana is an appropriate option. If they agree, they’ll apply for approval from the TGA to prescribe medical cannabis.

In some cases, you may need to see a specialist, depending on your condition. Once approved, your doctor will provide you with a prescription, and you’ll be able to purchase medical cannabis from a licensed pharmacy or online, depending on local laws.

Medical Marijuana Cost in Australia

One concern many people have about medical marijuana’s cost in Australia is that it can be expensive. The price varies depending on the form of medical cannabis you’re prescribed. The cost of medical marijuana is not always covered by insurance, though some patients may be eligible for financial assistance or subsidies.

However, as medical cannabis becomes more widely accepted and accessible in Australia, there are hopes that the costs will become more affordable in the future. It’s always best to discuss the cost with your doctor and consider the potential benefits it could offer to your quality of life.

While both marijuana and medical marijuana come from the same plant, they serve very different purposes. Medical marijuana is used for specific medical conditions under the guidance of a healthcare provider, whereas recreational marijuana is used for its psychoactive effects. The key differences lie in their usage, the concentration of active compounds like THC and CBD, their legal status, and the way they are prescribed and dosed.

If you’re considering how to get medical marijuana, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can guide you through the process, ensuring you’re using it safely and effectively for your condition. While the medical marijuana cost in Australia can be a barrier for some, its therapeutic potential is becoming increasingly recognised as a valid treatment option for a range of conditions. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for an online prescription store, Folium Dispensary has you covered! We’re your go-to reliable online pharmacy in Strathfield; get in touch to learn more.