Medical Cannabis 101 / Basics

Medical cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system in your body, which plays a role in regulating pain, mood, sleep, and more. Different formulations (ratios of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids/terpenes) can have varying effects. Proper dosing, route of administration, and product choice matter a lot — which is why medical supervision is essential.

Consumption Methods

We educate patients on the various ways they might use medicinal cannabis, including:

  • Oils and tinctures

  • Capsules / Softgels

  • Vaporization of dried flower (if allowed)

  • Edibles (gummies, drinks, pastries)

  • Topicals / creams

  • Sublinguals

  • Other novel methods

Each method has different advantages such as different onset times, durations, and safety considerations — which we review with you in your education session.

 FAQs

    • Yes — with a prescription (medical document) and in compliance with federal and provincial laws.

    • Possible side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, changes in appetite, fatigue, cognitive effects; we monitor patients and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

    • Effects can vary. Some patients notice symptom relief quickly; for others it takes gradual titration and adjustment with some treatments taking up to 2 months of daily use before therapeutic effects are felt.

    • You must inform us of all medications. There may be drug interactions; we monitor for safety.

    • We begin low and slow, adjusting dose carefully over time based on patient assessments and feedback.

  • Coverage varies by provider. We’ll help you explore what’s possible under your plan or special programs (see Patient Support).

    • No — do not drive or operate machinery as cannabis can impact reaction times and motor function.

  • •⁠ ⁠Glaucoma

    •⁠ ⁠Chronic Spasticity

    •⁠ ⁠Migraines / Headaches

    •⁠ ⁠Multiple Sclerosis

    •⁠ ⁠Muscle Cramps & Spasms

    •⁠ ⁠Neuropathic Pain (including Carpel tunnel)

    •⁠ ⁠Parkinson's Disease

    •⁠ ⁠Restless Leg Syndrome

    •⁠ ⁠Seizures & Epilepsy

    •⁠ ⁠Anxiety- acute

    •⁠ ⁠Dementia Behaviours

    •⁠ ⁠Depression

    •⁠ ⁠Anorexia

    •⁠ ⁠Insomnia

    •⁠ ⁠PTSD

    •⁠ ⁠Chemotherapy- induced nausea and vomiting

    •⁠ ⁠Management of side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy

    •⁠ ⁠Raynaud's Syndrome

    •⁠ ⁠Irritable Bowel Syndrom (IBS)

    •⁠ ⁠Chron's Disease

    •⁠ ⁠Nausea

    •⁠ ⁠Fibromyalgia

    •⁠ ⁠Arthritis (including Osteoarthritis)

    •⁠ ⁠Palliative Care Symptoms

    •⁠ ⁠Inflamation

    •⁠ ⁠Joint Pain

    •⁠ ⁠Muscular Pain

    •⁠ ⁠Back Pain

    •⁠ ⁠Seizures

    •⁠ ⁠Spasms, bladder issues

    •⁠ ⁠Tics

    •⁠ ⁠Tremors