MEDICINAL CANNABIS

Medicinal cannabis is generally well tolerated, but the science related to its potential adverse effects is in its infancy. What has been learnt from the adverse effects of recreational cannabis use may not readily apply to medicinal cannabis, which is administered under medical supervision using strict dosing regimens and non-smoking routes of administration. High-quality safety studies are needed, especially of unapproved medicinal cannabis products, which are increasingly being used in the community. New, unforeseen adverse events may arise in this rapidly evolving area of medicine, and pharmacovigilance measures must be implemented to ensure patient safety. – AJGP June 2021