Navigating the complexities of medicinal cannabis pastilles (also known as edibles) can be challenging, but we’re here to help! As edible medications, like Blüm, become a more prominent option in patient care, having a thorough understanding of their use and regulation is essential..
To assist you in delivering informed and effective guidance to your patients, we’ve compiled essential information on various aspects of cannabis pastilles to help you answer some common questions patients have about edible treatment.
How are medicinal cannabis pastilles taken?
Medicinal cannabis pastilles are consumed orally, meaning they are eaten or ingested by mouth. When you ingest these pastilles, they travel through your digestive system, where the active compounds, such as THC and CBD, are absorbed primarily in the gastrointestinal tract.
From there, these compounds enter the bloodstream through the intestinal walls. However, before reaching systemic circulation, cannabinoids undergo what is known as first-pass metabolism in the liver. This metabolic process involves the liver breaking down some of the cannabinoids into different compounds. As a result, the onset of effects from medicinal cannabis pastilles is delayed compared to inhalation methods like smoking or vaporisation, where cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs.
This delayed onset is due to the time it takes for the cannabinoids to be absorbed, metabolised, and distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. Therefore, pastilles may take longer to take effect compared to other forms of cannabis consumption, such as inhalation methods like smoking or vaporisation.
How are medicinal cannabis edible doses determined?
When figuring out the right amount of medicinal cannabis pastilles to take, several factors are taken into account, such as how the body processes drugs (pharmacokinetics), how drugs affect the body (pharmacodynamics), and individual patient characteristics. Healthcare providers usually begin patients with a small starting dose and increase it slowly until they get the desired therapeutic effects without experiencing negative reactions.
These doses are adjusted based on factors like the patient's medical condition, how accustomed they are to cannabinoids, their metabolism, and what they hope to achieve from the treatment. Scientific research from clinical trials and observational studies gives valuable insights into dosing strategies for specific medical conditions. This information helps healthcare professionals create effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
What do the different THC and CBD ratios in pastilles mean?
The THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) percentages in pastilles, along with the ratio of minor cannabinoids, such as CBG (cannabigerol) or CBN (cannabinol), indicate the composition and potency of the product. For instance, a ratio like 2:1:2 means there's twice as much THC as there is CBD and an equal amount of minor cannabinoids, while a ratio of 2:3:1 indicates more CBD than THC and fewer minor cannabinoids.
These ratios influence the psychoactive and therapeutic effects experienced by consumers. Higher THC percentages typically lead to stronger psychoactivity, while higher CBD percentages may provide therapeutic benefits with less intoxication. The presence of minor cannabinoids adds complexity to the overall effects through interactions known as the entourage effect. Therefore, understanding these ratios helps prescribers choose products that align with their desired outcomes and tolerance levels.
What's the difference between unregulated and medicinal cannabis pastilles?
The primary difference between “street” or home-made pastilles and medicinal cannabis pastilles lies in their production, quality control, and legality.
Street cannabis pastilles are obtained illicitly and are not subject to regulatory oversight or quality control measures. They are often made in unregulated environments, leading to inconsistencies in potency, dosing, and ingredient purity. Additionally, street pastilles may contain unknown amounts of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, posing risks to consumer safety.
On the other hand, medicinal cannabis pastilles are produced by licensed manufacturers operating within legal frameworks established by regulatory authorities. These manufacturers have to adhere to strict quality standards throughout the production process. Medicinal pastilles undergo rigorous testing for potency, purity, and contaminants, ensuring that patients receive standardised products with accurately labelled cannabinoid content.
Additionally, medicinal cannabis pastilles are prescribed by healthcare professionals for specific medical conditions and are used as part of a structured treatment plan. Patients using medicinal cannabis pastilles receive guidance on dosing, administration, and potential side effects from qualified healthcare providers.
How long do the effects of medicinal cannabis pastilles last?
The duration of effects from medicinal cannabis pastilles can vary depending on factors such as the dose, individual metabolism, and the specific formulation of the product. Generally, the effects of pastilles are known to last longer compared to inhalation methods like smoking or vaping.
After ingesting medicinal cannabis pastilles, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to onset due to the time it takes for the cannabinoids to be absorbed, metabolised, and distributed throughout the body. Once the effects are felt, they typically peak within 2 to 4 hours and can last for 4 to 12 hours or more, depending on factors like the potency of the product and individual sensitivity to cannabinoids.
It's important for patients to start with a low dose and wait an adequate amount of time before consuming more to avoid overconsumption and potential adverse effects. Healthcare professionals recommend patience and caution when using medicinal cannabis pastilles to ensure a safe and effective experience.
