What’s happening?
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has welcomed new guidelines issued by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency for those prescribing and dispensing medical cannabis. National President Professor Trent Twomey said, “Like AHPRA, the Guild has been concerned about recent reports of irresponsible prescribing and dispensing of medicinal cannabis.” He added, “We also applaud the Regulator’s proactive action against practitioners who’ve demonstrated poor professional practices when prescribing medicinal cannabis.”
Why it matters
Professor Twomey said the guidelines target prescribers but also apply to pharmacists. “When dispensing medicinal cannabis prescriptions, community pharmacists should also assess the therapeutic need for the prescription and ensure prescribers have developed an appropriate management plan with the patient, which includes a clear exit strategy,” he said.
Local Impact
Pharmacists in local communities are expected to assess prescriptions and consult with prescribers. “The Guidelines reinforce that medicinal cannabis should not be considered a first-line treatment, but rather a therapeutic option, used only when supported by appropriate evidence,” Professor Twomey said.
By the numbers
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Clinical evidence supporting cannabis use for many symptoms remains low.
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Irresponsible prescribing and dispensing reports prompted these guidelines.
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Pharmacists must review management plans before dispensing any cannabis prescription.
Zoom In
Professor Twomey said pharmacists are well positioned to identify and assess clinical concerns and consult prescribers before dispensing. “The Guild strongly supports the recommendation for communicating, following the patient’s permission, with their regular practitioners as well as the additional obligations for prescribers conducting telehealth consultations,” he said.
Zoom Out
“A patient’s regular healthcare providers, such as their general practitioner and regular community pharmacy, are best placed to manage the safe and effective use of medicinal cannabis products,” Professor Twomey said.
What to look for next?
“The Guild also reinforces the responsibility of all healthcare providers, including community pharmacists, to report any unprofessional prescribing practices related to medicinal cannabis to the relevant regulatory authorities,” Professor Twomey said.