Medical Cannabis

A new way to treat certain health problems

Medical cannabis is a form of therapy that uses compounds derived from the cannabis plant, such as THC and CBD, to alleviate symptoms or treat certain conditions. Our experienced team, supervised by the research program of the Cannabis Quebec Registry, will guide you in this process.

What is medical cannabis?

Did you know that cannabis has been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years? Medical cannabis has therapeutic properties and can be used to treat various conditions as it acts on a regulating system: our endocannabinoid system.

We have several receptors of this system throughout the body.

So, the effects of medical cannabis are manifold; it doesn’t just treat symptoms but a system in CHRONIC pain, whether it’s mechanical, neuropathic, or inflammatory in origin. We know that medical cannabis can help improve symptoms as well as quality of life.

By acting on this system, it relieves and restores balance both in neuromodulation and immunomodulation.

The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD. CBD is increasingly being used, sometimes almost alone or mixed with THC for therapeutic purposes. It all depends on the individual being treated and what is being treated; this medicine is personalized and tailored.

Its use must be medically supervised to obtain therapeutic benefits safely. It is important to make a clear distinction between recreational and therapeutic use. Both are treated and applied in completely different ways.

The healthiest way to take medical cannabis is by ingesting it in the form of oil or capsules to avoid consuming combustion products. However, in certain conditions, it may be useful to inhale it (smoke or vaporize) to achieve a quicker effect.

Potentially treatable conditions

When treating with medical cannabis, we improve more than one symptom and, consequently, the overall condition and quality of life.

Cannabis has undeniable calming effects. It can help and improve symptoms for people suffering from:

Migraines
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Medication withdrawal
Chronic pain (e.g., neuropathic, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms…)
Sleep disorders
Anxiety
Cognitive disorders (Alzheimer’s and ADHD)
Menopause
Inflammatory diseases
Other various conditions termed “functional”

However, caution is warranted. Medical supervision becomes essential to dose and monitor the positive effects while minimizing the adverse effects, which are less significant in therapeutic use than in recreational use.

The opioid crisis, among other factors, compels us to explore alternative therapeutic options, and medical cannabis fits well into this approach. It may be considered for use in the near future in the treatment of certain dependencies.

At CMIE, our healthcare professionals are here to support and guide you in the realm of therapeutic cannabis.

Let’s Talk Medical Cannabis video capsules

GET IN TOUCH

Learn more about Medical Cannabis

Want to know more about CMIE Medical Cannabis clinic?
Get all the information and see how to register by following the link below.

Registration Process

Questions and answers

Is it possible to develop an addiction to medical cannabis?

There is very little risk of addiction, considering all forms of cannabis, including recreational use. Even less risk if medically supervised! Research has also shown that over 90% of people who consume cannabis do not become dependent, compared to 32% who become dependent on nicotine, 23% on heroin, 15% on alcohol, and 11% on stimulants. (Ref: Addiction Publication). In fact, medical cannabis could potentially be used to treat certain dependencies in the future (supported by pre-clinical research).

I’ve never used cannabis in my life, I’m afraid to start and feel high.

In medical cannabis, we use much more CBD than THC, and it’s THC that is known to produce that euphoric or “high” effect. This effect is associated with recreational THC consumption, smoked and without quality or quantity control. CBD, on the other hand, does not produce a euphoric effect like THC. When combined, CBD limits the euphoric effect of THC. Additionally, in medical cannabis, you will be coached on the proper dosage and titration of your cannabis in a gradual and safe manner! It will be tailored to maximize the beneficial effects while minimizing adverse effects.

I don’t smoke, and I’m not interested in starting to smoke cannabis.

We respect your choice not to smoke, and we agree that smoking carries risks to your health, especially pulmonary risks. We recommend vaporization for certain medical conditions, especially for a rapid onset of action. Medical cannabis can also be taken in other forms, such as ingesting oil or capsules. Its onset of action will be slower, but its duration of action longer. There are also topical forms, rectal suppositories, etc.
The method of consumption used can influence when its effects begin and how long they last. When smoked, the most visible effects may be felt within minutes and typically last between 2 and 4 hours. Orally, however, they may take up to 1.5 or 2 hours to be felt and last up to 8 hours or more. It is important to note that all other edible products exist, but medical supervision is always desirable to maximize your therapeutic effect and minimize the risk of side effects.

What is the difference between medical cannabis and SQDC cannabis?

What is the difference between medical cannabis and SQDC cannabis? Medical cannabis is authorized by a physician who provides a document allowing the patient to obtain cannabis from a producer authorized by Health Canada. You will have greater access to CBD supply. These products are relatively rare in stores.
With medical cannabis, you will also undergo an assessment of your health condition to determine if cannabis can be a therapeutic option for you. Certain considerations such as health condition, medications used, and risk of dependency need to be evaluated. You will have access to an educational program, detailed information on the right product to order, medical supervision ensuring a safe treatment plan for you by qualified healthcare professionals.
You may be entitled to compassionate discounts, veteran discounts, declare it as a medical expense for tax purposes on your tax return, as well as reimbursement from your private insurance. Some employers and landlords may be more understanding when your consumption is medically supervised.

How can I obtain medical cannabis?

You must obtain a medical document (authorization) from a qualified medical cannabis doctor, and you can then obtain cannabis by registering with an authorized producer, whose names appear on the Health Canada website.
Of course, you will be guided in choosing the product to order, i.e., choosing the right product for the condition(s) being treated. The product will be delivered to your home by Canada Post.

Can I have my own personal cannabis cultivation?

Yes, you have the option to grow your own personal cannabis production or have it grown by a designated person.
You must first meet with a CMIE doctor who will assess with you the possibility of prescribing authorization to produce cannabis in small quantities. Health Canada forms will need to be completed by both parties.

How much does medical cannabis cost?

The cost of medical cannabis varies depending on authorized producers, who set their own costs, and the variety of cannabis: dried form, oil, capsule, etc.
CMIE will help you choose the producer, the product that suits you, based on your health needs and financial situation. You may be entitled to compassionate discounts, veterans’ discounts, declare it as a medical expense for tax purposes on your tax return, etc.

Can cannabis interact with other substances?

Yes, hence the importance of medical supervision. For example, alcohol can potentiate the effect of cannabis if taken simultaneously (increase intensity, duration, and lead to incidents).
It must be ensured that cannabis intake does not interfere with the intake of certain medications. Therefore, medical supervision becomes important to ensure that it remains safe for you.

To learn more…

Please review the article ‘The Role of Cannabinoids in Immunomodulation‘ written by Dr. Lyne Desautels, MD, MSc, BSc.

What clients are saying

I am always very satisfied with the service offered by the medical secretaries, always pleasant. Dr. Desautels is an extraordinary doctor, I have been with her for years and I would never change. She is very knowledgeable in listening to people, funny, pleasant.

– Sylvie

A big thank you to Dr. Rodrigue Martel who was understanding and efficient!!!

– Vincent

Here is the result of my experience with the CMIE: Excellent service from the team in Brossard; Dr. Desautels demonstrates empathy, gets to the bottom of the problems and provides good follow-up. Its team – both receptionists and nurses – is attentive to emergency situations and acts in concert with the doctors to provide the required action at the appropriate time.

– Maggie

Subscribe to CMIE newsletters

Join our email list to be the first to know about CMIE news and developments