2010-09-29

Cannabis Bureau | 10 Medicinal cannabis

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Medicinal cannabis

Cannabis is the dried flowers of the female Cannabis sativa L plant (also known as hemp). Other names for cannabis are marijuana or weed.

Cannabis contains a number of active elements, including dronabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Dronabinol is usually the main ingredient, but other substances – such as CBD – can also have an active effect. The composition determines the effects, and side effects, of the cannabis.

Cannabis distributed by pharmacies is of pharmaceutical quality and complies with the strictest requirements. This cannabis is intended for medicinal use only.

Types of medicinal cannabis

Three types of medicinal cannabis are available through pharmacies: Bedrocan, Bedrobinol and Bediol. The composition and strength varies (see table).

Content (%)Price*
Dronabinol (THC)Cannabidiol (CBD)Per 5 grams
Bedrobinolapprox. 12<1€ 41,25
Bedrocanapprox. 19<1€ 41,25
Bediolapprox. 6approx. 7,5€ 43,50

* Excl. 6% VAT. The retail price per gram may vary if your pharmacy sells the products in smaller or larger units.

Bediol

Bediol differs from Bedrocan and Bedrobinol in form and composition but is used in the same way.

  • Form:
    Like Bedrocan and Bedrobinol, Bediol comes in the form of dried flower tips harvested from the female cannabis plants. The difference with Bediol is that the dried flowers are ground, making the product easier for the patient to use.
  • Composition:
    Unlike the other varieties, Bediol has a relatively low THC content, and a high CBD content. This makes it particularly suitable for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, as the combination of THC/CBD can help to relieve pain and spasms (cramps). CBD not only relieves pain, but also reduces inflammation. Because it reduces the psychological side effects of THC it is also used by patients with other illnesses and symptoms (e.g. chronic neurogenic pain).
  • Administering the product:
    Bediol, Bedrocan and Bedrobinol can all be used to make tea (see booklet), or inhaled through an inhaler (see booklet).
  • Dosage:
    Dosage varies from patient to patient. It is important that the dosage is built up slowly, whichever of the three products is used.

If you have any other questions, please contact the BMC.

More information for doctors and pharmacists on the specification of Bedrocan, Bedrobinol and Bediol is available in the Specification sheet.

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