The landscape of medicinal cannabis in Australia has seen a notable increase in prescriptions, particularly for conditions such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression. This rise, however, is prompting discussions among experts and regulatory bodies regarding the sufficiency of supporting clinical evidence, according to a report via Medical Xpress.
Medicinal cannabis, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, contains over 100 active compounds, with delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being of primary interest to medical researchers. In Australia, the production and dispensing of medicinal cannabis are strictly regulated. Doctors must obtain approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) before prescribing, and the medicine must be dispensed through pharmacies.
Regulatory Framework and Approved Uses
Following the legalisation of medicinal cannabis in 2016, a 2017 review focused on its potential uses in palliative care, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. Despite this, only two cannabis-derived medications have been listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
- One TGA-registered medication is used to manage muscle spasms in patients with multiple sclerosis.
- The other is prescribed to reduce seizures in individuals with epilepsy.
For other cannabis-derived drugs, studies into their effectiveness are yet to consistently show positive results, indicating an ongoing need for further robust clinical research.
The Rise in Prescriptions and Emerging Concerns
Despite the limited number of TGA-registered products, the number of medicinal cannabis prescriptions in Australia quadrupled between 2022 and 2025, with over one million approvals. A significant proportion of these prescriptions are for mental health conditions, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression.
This increase is partly attributed to the growth of telehealth services that specialise in prescribing cannabis, often marketed as “alternative therapies” for various conditions, including pain, sleep, mental health, and women’s health. However, experts express concern that this rapid increase in prescriptions may not be adequately supported by high-quality research.
For instance, a 2026 study mentioned in the report indicated no evidence to support the use of medicinal cannabis as a treatment for any mental health condition. Regulatory bodies, such as the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), are also reviewing practitioners and online dispensaries that issue a high volume of prescriptions each month. These reviews aim to ensure that patient care remains the priority, rather than high-volume access.
Navigating Medicinal Cannabis Use
While the evidence base is still developing for many conditions, medicinal cannabis may be considered for individuals for whom other treatment options have not been effective. Clinicians typically advise a cautious approach:
- Maintaining ongoing communication with a healthcare practitioner.
- Carefully monitoring any effects.
This approach aligns with the regulatory oversight of the TGA, ensuring patient safety and appropriate use of medicinal cannabis within the Australian healthcare system.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hemp Gazette does not provide medical recommendations, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any decisions regarding your health or any medical condition. Statements concerning the therapeutic uses of hemp, cannabis, or cannabinoid-derived products have not been evaluated by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medicinal cannabis products in Australia are accessed via prescription pathways under TGA regulation.
