Medical cannabis can be prescribed in several forms, including dried flower, vape cartridges, sublingual oils, pastilles, topical cream, suppositories and pessaries. Each is administered differently to support safe and effective treatment. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product or device.
Cannabis can be prescribed in its natural, dried flower form. These medicines are not prescribed for smoking, as combustion releases harmful compounds.
Instead, flower medicines are inhaled using a medical herbal vaporiser (sometimes called a dry herb vaporiser), which gently heats the flower to release active cannabinoids and terpenes without burning. These devices differ from nicotine or e-liquid vapes and are designed specifically for medicinal use.
Once you have your grinder, vaporiser, and prescribed flower, follow these five simple steps:
Place a small amount of dried cannabis flower (approximately 200–250 mg) into a grinder and twist several times until evenly ground.
Transfer the ground flower into the vaporiser bowl. Fill the chamber so it is level but not tightly packed, allowing airflow through the material.
Reattach the vaporiser lid, select your desired temperature (typically between 175–190 °C), and power on the device. Begin at a lower temperature and adjust upward to find your optimal setting.
Draw the vapour slowly through the mouthpiece and exhale immediately. Coughing can occur—if persistent, lower the temperature or reduce inhalation volume.
When the vapour becomes harsh or flavourless and the flower turns brown, the session is complete. Empty the spent material and brush or wipe the chamber and mouthpiece to keep the device clean for next use.
Vape cartridges contain purified cannabis extract in a ready-to-use form. They are typically combined with a compatible battery device (typically a 510 thread battery) to deliver inhaled doses in a consistent and convenient way.
These devices differ from herbal vaporisers, as they use concentrated cannabis oil rather than dried flower. Cartridges are available in a range of formulations to suit individual prescriptions.
Ensure your vape battery is charged and compatible with the cartridge.
Gently screw or click the cartridge onto the battery until secure—do not overtighten.
Activate the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If adjustable, start on a low temperature or voltage setting and increase gradually as needed.
Place your lips on the mouthpiece and draw in gently for 2–3 seconds. Exhale immediately. Wait a few minutes between inhalations to assess effect.
Detach the cartridge when not in use and store upright in a cool, dark place. Keep out of reach of children and away from heat or sunlight.
Sublingual oils are liquid cannabis formulations designed for absorption under the tongue. This method allows cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream directly through the oral mucosa, avoiding digestion and providing steadier onset compared to inhalation.
Oils are available in a variety of ratios and concentrations to meet individual patient needs.
Wash your hands and shake the bottle gently. Measure the prescribed dose using the supplied dropper.
Place the drops directly under your tongue. Avoid touching the dropper to your mouth to maintain hygiene.
Keep the oil under your tongue for 60–90 seconds before swallowing. This allows absorption through the oral mucosa.
Effects may begin within 30–90 minutes. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 10 minutes after administration.
Replace the cap tightly and store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place, away from heat and direct sunlight.
Lozenges and pastilles are solid oral formulations that dissolve slowly in the mouth, allowing cannabinoids to be absorbed through the mucous membranes. This provides a controlled and discreet method of administration without inhalation.
They are particularly suitable for patients who prefer a measured, longer-acting dose.
Confirm the prescribed number and strength of lozenges or pastilles before use.
Position the lozenge between your cheek and gum, or under the tongue.
Let it dissolve completely without chewing or swallowing. This ensures absorption through the oral mucosa.
Do not eat or drink while the lozenge is dissolving or for 10 minutes afterward.
Keep in the original packaging, stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture. Always keep out of reach of children.
Topical medical cannabis cream is a localised treatment designed to be applied directly to the skin, where it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. Unlike oral or inhaled forms, topical applications typically do not produce psychoactive effects, making them a targeted option for managing symptoms. These creams allow patients to apply medication precisely where it’s required.
Wash your hands and apply to clean, dry skin.
A Fingertip Unit (FTU) is the standard medical guideline for measuring the exact amount of topical creams. The amount of units needed depends on the area which needs to be covered. Push the dispenser up from the bottom to select the amount of cream you need.
Apply the cream as directed by your physician. They may advise a certain frequency to apply this, or situations where you may want to use the cream.
Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
You may want to and lightly coat the pointed tip of the suppository with a water-based lubricant, or moisten it with cool tap water for easier insertion.
Your doctor can advise on this. You could lie on your side with your lower leg straight and your upper knee bent towards your stomach, or assume a squatting position.
Gently spread and use your finger to push the suppository or pessary (tapered end first) inside.
Clench for a few seconds and remain lying down for 10 to 15 minutes to let the medicine melt and absorb. Wash your hands once more.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended for patients prescribed medical cannabis by a qualified clinician. It does not replace medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your treatment or method of administration.
