Can Doctors Prescribe CBD Medications in India?

 The use of cannabis medicines is on the rise in India, but before we embrace this trend, it is important to understand the process of obtaining a medical cannabis prescription. Cannabis is a sensitive and controversial topic, and the confusion surrounding it can make the prescription process intimidating. However, with the right information and guidance, obtaining a medical cannabis prescription can be quick, easy, and hassle-free. One question that needs to be addressed is whether Indian doctors can prescribe CBD medications in India. But before we delve into that, it is crucial to understand the difference between ayurvedic cannabis and medical cannabis followed by the significance of a medical cannabis prescription.

Medical Cannabis vs Ayurvedic Cannabis

Medical cannabis is a general term that refers to the use of cannabis as a medicine. In countries like the US, patients can visit medical cannabis dispensaries and purchase cannabis products for medicinal purposes. These products can be derived from various parts of the cannabis plant, such as buds, leaves, flowers, and stalks, and can come from different strains of cannabis, such as indica, sativa, or hybrid. Medical cannabis can also include the consumption of raw, dried cannabis with the intent of treating a medical condition. On the other hand, ayurvedic cannabis is based on the ancient Indian medicine system known as Ayurveda. It primarily uses the leaf of the cannabis plant to create proprietary formulations. These formulations are purely leaf-based extracts and often combine cannabis with other herbs, plants, or materials for the purpose of curing or treating an illness. Unlike in the US, there is no provision in India to buy or sell ingestible ayurvedic cannabis in dispensaries. These products can only be distributed under regulation with a valid prescription. Ayurvedic cannabis products cannot be purchased without a prescription. In India, the available medical cannabis formulations are leaf-based Vijaya extracts. Vijaya extract is an Ayurvedic form of cannabis oil that is a full-spectrum extract, meaning it does not undergo excessive processing and contains all the chemical compounds originally present in the cannabis plant. Cannabis sativa Linn is the scientific name of Vijaya extract. Vijaya formulations can contain moderate to high amounts of THC, the compound responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis.

Now, why do you need a prescription for ayurvedic (Vijaya) cannabis extracts?

The cannabis plant contains over 500 different compounds, each with its own properties that science is still discovering. While the medicinal benefits of cannabis are significant, it is important to acknowledge the euphoric effects it can have on the human body. Some cannabis formulations may contain delicate combinations of these compounds and need to be administered with care. From a legal standpoint, formulations with more than 0.3% THC require a valid prescription due to their potential to cause intoxication and other side effects. The requirement of a prescription for medical, ayurvedic, or Vijaya cannabis extracts is necessary to prevent the abuse and misuse of cannabis medication.

Can Indian doctors prescribe CBD medications in India?

Yes. In India, the responsibility of prescribing Ayurvedic or medical cannabis products lies with specialized Ayurvedic doctors. While any qualified doctor can write a prescription for medical cannabis, it is the Ayurvedic doctors who are specifically trained in the use of Ayurvedic (Vijaya) cannabis extracts and their therapeutic benefits. 

Who is eligible to receive an Ayurvedic or Medical Cannabis prescription? 

In India, anyone can obtain a prescription for Ayurvedic or medical cannabis. Cannabis has been found to provide relief for a wide range of medical conditions, and therefore, any patient battling an illness that can potentially benefit from cannabis can seek a prescription.

 Is Medical Cannabis legal in India?

Cannabis is classified as a Schedule-E1 drug in India and is regulated by the Ministry of AYUSH and the Excise Department. While cannabis-based medicines are legal, they are also regulated to prevent misuse and abuse. As a result, a prescription is required to access these medicines. 

Where can I get Cannabis Prescription in India?

Traditionally, the regulations in India required that prescriptions for cannabis medicines be issued offline, with the doctor and patient meeting in person. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Pandemic Act was passed in March 2020, allowing online consultations for herbal medicines. As a result, the safest and quickest way to obtain a prescription for medical or Ayurvedic cannabis in India is through dedicated online medical consultation platforms like Cannabryl.

 What conditions are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in India?

In India, doctors can administer medical cannabis for various medical conditions, including neurological problems, autoimmune disorders, psychological disorders, and pain/palliative/cancer care. However, it is important to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor to determine if medical cannabis is appropriate for your specific condition.

 What to look for in an Ayurvedic or Medical Cannabis Online Prescription in India?

Since you will be obtaining your medical cannabis prescription online, it is important to carefully analyze it for the following information: 

To book an appointment with a certified Ayurvedic doctor, you can use trusted online platforms such as Cannabryl, which offer a pool of qualified Ayurvedic doctors for patients to choose from. After receiving the prescription, patients can buy certified medical cannabis products from the same site.

 How long is a medical cannabis prescription valid for?

The doctor mentions the validity of cannabis medication on the prescription itself. The duration of validity may vary depending on the severity and nature of the medical condition. If the prescribed product is not providing the desired results, you can reschedule a consultation with the same cannabis doctor who initially prescribed the medicine.

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