NPS MedicineWise, in collaboration with the TGA, has released new information and resources to support appropriate prescribing and dispensing of medicinal cannabis products.
The NPS MedicineWise medicinal cannabis hub brings together resources for health professionals in one place. A new article 'Unapproved medicinal cannabis: changes to prescribing pathway' describes the changes which were made to reduce administrative burden and increase flexibility for brand substitution.
"Any Australian registered medical practitioner can apply to become an 'Authorised Prescriber'. Dr Kate Annear, GP and Medical Advisor at NPS MedicineWise said. "They can then prescribe low THC-concentration medicinal cannabis products to patients meeting the dosage form and indication outlined by the TGA, without an accompanying HREC or separate approval for each patient.
"Higher THC-concentration products can be prescribed through the Authorised Prescriber pathway with an accompanying HREC or on a case-by-case basis under the 'Special Access Scheme'," she says.
A new flowchart defines the five categories of medicinal cannabis products and lists available resources for prescribers and pharmacists. It also shows the steps involved from a consultation with a patient through to dispensing medicinal cannabis at the pharmacy.
A new FAQ article answers questions including what to consider before prescribing medicinal cannabis, how to navigate the TGA's online application system and when are separate applications required.
You can access the NPS MedicineWise medicinal cannabis hub here.
