Wondering if CBD oil could be the right choice for you?
Listen to the automated AI version of this article here:
Getting a CBD oil prescription in New Zealand can feel like a complex process. In this article, we’ll address some of the most important questions you might have, making it easier for you to understand the steps involved and feel confident about your options.
Do I Need a CBD Oil Prescription in New Zealand?
Yes, CBD oil is classified as a prescription-only medicine in New Zealand. This means the only legal way to obtain it is through a prescription from a doctor. While CBD oil is available over the counter in some countries, this is not yet the case in New Zealand. Having it prescribed by a doctor ensures you receive high-quality products along with accurate and professional medical advice tailored to your needs.
How to Get a Prescription for CBD in NZ?
How Do I Get a CBD Prescription?
1. Consult with your own GP
One of the safest and legal ways to access CBD oil is to speak with your GP or doctor about it. Can doctors prescribe CBD oil? Yes, but their response may vary. Some doctors are open-minded and willing to listen, while others may be hesitant or unwilling to prescribe it. If your GP is supportive, that’s a great start—keep the conversation going. Once you have a prescription, you can have it filled at your local pharmacy.
The biggest hurdle for many patients is obtaining that prescription from their GP. Some doctors may be reluctant to write a script for CBD oil, while others may lack knowledge about its use. This isn’t entirely surprising, as formal training in medicinal cannabis is still limited in New Zealand. To prepare for your appointment, it’s helpful to research how to approach the conversation and make your case for CBD oil effectively.
2. Consult with the Cannabis Clinic and see an experienced cannabis doctor
Our mission is to support patients with any health condition who have not found relief through traditional treatments. At our clinic, you’re welcome to consult with one of our experienced and open-minded doctors for advice on medicinal cannabis and to determine if it may be a suitable option for you.
Our team is here to guide you in making informed decisions, including navigating the available products on the market. With our expertise, we aim to help you choose the most appropriate options while also finding ways to reduce costs and make treatment more affordable.
How Much Does a CBD Oil Prescription Cost?
The cost of obtaining a CBD oil prescription includes the price of your doctor’s appointment. At the Cannabis Clinic, consultations start at $99. However, it’s important to note that the initial consultation is just one part of the overall expense.
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of the CBD oil itself. Prices for CBD oil typically range from $90 to $400, depending on the product’s strength, with most people spending around $2–$5 per day for a moderate daily dose. Additionally, each time you require a new prescription, there may be a fee for your GP or another appointment, which can add up to several hundred dollars annually.
We understand that cost is a significant consideration for many patients. That’s why we’ve created a helpful guide to show you how to choose the best products and save hundreds of dollars in the long run.
Does Hemp Oil Need a Prescription in New Zealand?
No, hemp oil—also known as hemp seed oil—does not require a prescription in New Zealand. Unlike CBD oil, hemp oil is not medicinal and is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant. It’s commonly used as a dietary supplement for its healthy fats or as a salad dressing and can be purchased from your local supermarket.
How About a THC Prescription?
Can I Get a THC Prescription in New Zealand?
Yes, THC can legally be prescribed by a GP in New Zealand. It’s an important component of medicinal cannabis treatments and is available in various forms, including THC oil and dried cannabis flower. For more information on THC prescriptions and products, click here.
When considering medicinal cannabis, it’s essential to take a holistic view. While CBD oil often takes centre stage in discussions due to its non-psychoactive nature and broad applications, a well-rounded treatment plan may involve a combination of CBD and THC. THC plays a key role in managing certain symptoms, particularly where CBD alone may not be sufficient. Together, these compounds can provide complementary effects, enhancing the therapeutic potential of medicinal cannabis.
Your specific treatment plan, including the combination of products prescribed, will depend on your individual needs. Factors like your health condition(s), symptom severity, and treatment goals all influence the recommendation of CBD, THC, or both.
Our experienced doctors are here to assess your unique situation and develop a tailored treatment plan that considers your overall health and well-being. By taking a personalised and evidence-based approach, we aim to help you achieve the best possible outcomes with medicinal cannabis.
Conclusion
CBD oil is classified as a prescription-only medicine in New Zealand, and any registered doctor, including your GP, has the authority to prescribe it.
If you’re interested in speaking with an experienced doctor who specialises in medicinal cannabis, we’re here to help. Our team understands the complexities of medicinal cannabis treatment and can provide expert advice tailored to your unique needs. Booking a consultation with us is an excellent way to explore your options and gain clarity about whether CBD oil or other cannabis-based treatments may be right for you.
We hope this article has been helpful in explaining the process of obtaining a CBD oil prescription in New Zealand. If you have any additional questions, want to share your story, or have recommendations for others, we’d love to hear from you. Your feedback and experiences not only inspire us but also help us improve the care and resources we provide.
Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider.