5 Aug 2022

Medicinal cannabis scheme: How's it working two years on?

From Nine To Noon, 9:30 am on 5 August 2022

It's more than two years since the law changed to allow medicinal cannabis products to be prescribed in New Zealand - so is the scheme working as intended?

The Ministry of Health lists 17 medicinal cannabis products that meet the minimum quality standards for use - and one  that has the tick from Medsafe as an approved medicine.

Earlier this year Nubu Pharmaceuticals became the first company to be able to import dried cannabis flower - both for use in a vapouriser and in preparation as a tea.

Its CEO Mark Dye joins Susie to explain the challenges it getting it approved. But are there still barriers for people seeking medicinal cannabis products? Dr Ali Seyfoddin at AUT runs the only medicinal cannabis course in the country, and says the regulations are too restrictive.

Medical marijuana buds spilling out of prescription bottle with branded lid onto blank medical prescription pad on green background

Photo: 123 RF