Medicinal Cannabis Basics
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What is medicinal cannabis?
Medicinal cannabis refers to cannabis products that are prescribed by a doctor to help manage specific health conditions. -
Is medicinal cannabis the same as recreational cannabis?
No. Medicinal cannabis is legally prescribed by healthcare professionals and designed to help with medical symptoms, not for recreational use.
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Will medicinal cannabis make me "high"?
Not necessarily. Many medicinal cannabis products are formulated to provide therapeutic benefits without strong psychoactive effects.
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What is the difference between CBD and THC?
CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and used mainly for its health benefits, while THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can cause a "high" and has different medical properties.
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Is medicinal cannabis legal in New Zealand?
Yes, it is legal with a prescription from a registered healthcare professional.
Medical and Clinical Information
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What conditions can medicinal cannabis be prescribed for in New Zealand?
Doctors may prescribe medicinal cannabis for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, cancer-related symptoms, and more.
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Do I need a referral from my GP to get medicinal cannabis?
No referral is necessary. You can discuss a prescription for medicinal cannabis directly with your GP/doctor. Alternatively you can make an appointment with a specialist cannabis clinic that offers secure telehealth consultations for New Zealand patients.
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How do doctors decide if medicinal cannabis is right for me?
They’ll review your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment options before making a decision.
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Are there any side effects of medicinal cannabis?
Possible side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, or appetite changes. Your doctor will explain any risks to you.
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Is medicinal cannabis legal in New Zealand?
Yes, it is legal with a prescription from a registered healthcare professional.
Product and Treatment Information
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What types of medicinal cannabis products are available?
Available products include oils, capsules, dried flower (for vaporisation), and sometimes topical creams or sprays.
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How do I use medicinal cannabis products?
Your doctor will provide full instructions, depending on whether you're using oils, capsules, or other forms.
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Will I be able to choose which product I get?
Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option, but you’ll have a chance to discuss preferences.
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How much does medicinal cannabis cost in New Zealand?
Costs can vary but typically range from around $100 to $300+ per month.
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Is medicinal cannabis funded by Pharmac?
Not at this time. Patients pay privately for their medicinal cannabis prescriptions.
Legal, Access, and Regulatory Information
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Do I need a special license to use medicinal cannabis?
No special license is needed — just a valid prescription.
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Can I drive if I am using medicinal cannabis?
You must not drive if you feel impaired, even with a prescription. Safety always comes first.
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Can I travel overseas with medicinal cannabis?
Many countries have strict rules — check before you travel.
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How much does medicinal cannabis cost in New Zealand?
Costs can vary but typically range from around $100 to $300+ per month.
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How is medicinal cannabis regulated in New Zealand?
Medicinal cannabis must meet strict quality standards set by the Ministry of Health.
Clinic and Consultation Information
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How do I book an appointment to discuss medicinal cannabis?
You can book with your local GP/doctor or a specialist cannabis clinic to discuss medicinal cannabis. You can find details of cannabis clinics online. Examples in New Zealand include Alternaleaf NZ, Calyx Club and Cannabis Clinic.
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What happens during my first consultation?
You’ll chat with a doctor about your symptoms, health history, and treatment goals, the doctor will be able to provide the best advice.
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Can I have an online or telehealth appointment?
Absolutely! Secure telehealth consultations are available across New Zealand. There are clinics that specialise in this. Best approach is to google some cannabis clinics.
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How long does it take to get my prescription?
In many cases, prescriptions can be issued on the same day as your consultation, receiving your prescription may take longer depending on where you are collecting it from. Rural deliveries will take longer.
MDMA Basics
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What is MDMA?
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic psychoactive compound that mainly increases the release of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that helps regulate mood and emotion. It is best known for its recreational use as “ecstasy.”
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What type of drug is MDMA?
MDMA is an empathogen, a type of drug that can increase feelings of emotional openness and connection. In New Zealand, it is a Class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 and can only be used legally under specific Medsafe approvals.
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How is pharmaceutical-grade MDMA different from street ecstasy?
Pharmaceutical-grade MDMA, such as LaNeo™, is made to strict quality standards, so its purity and dose are known. Street “ecstasy” often contains unknown amounts of MDMA and may include other, sometimes dangerous, substances.
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How is MDMA used in medical treatment?
MDMA is used alongside psychotherapy to treat conditions including PTSD. It is given under supervision in a controlled clinical setting and is not a take-home medicine.
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What is Rua’s role in the supply of MDMA in New Zealand?
Rua imports and distributes LaNeo™ MDMA, made by PharmAla Biotech Inc., and supplies it to prescribers authorised by Medsafe.
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Who can prescribe MDMA in New Zealand?
Two psychiatrists approved by Medsafe in September 2026 can prescribe pharmaceutical-grade MDMA for PTSD, within the terms of their approval.
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Can I get MDMA from Rua or through my GP?
No. Rua does not supply the public, and GPs cannot prescribe MDMA. Treatment is only available through an authorised prescriber.
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How do I find out whether I’m eligible, and what treatment costs?
Please contact the authorised prescribers directly about eligibility, prescriptions, costs and treatment plans.
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What does this mean for psychedelic-assisted therapy in New Zealand?
It’s an important step for the sector, giving authorised prescribers a reliable local supply of pharmaceutical-grade MDMA.