You can drive while being treated with some medical cannabis products. In most Australian states, CBD-only products are approved for safe driving. However, cannabis products containing THC pose a risk to a patient’s cognitive functions, which may impact their driving. In all Australian states, excluding Tasmania, it is illegal to drive with any amount of THC in your system. It’s important to discuss treatment options with your doctor to determine the best cannabis product to suit your lifestyle needs.
Does medical cannabis impair your driving?
While the effects of medical cannabis vary from person to person, they may potentially impair your driving skills. Operating a vehicle under the influence of medical cannabis may pose risks, affecting coordination, reaction time, and other cognitive functions. Australian road safety rules prioritise sober driving, and individuals using medical cannabis should be aware of its potential influence on their ability to drive safely. It is recommended to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised advice regarding the use of medical cannabis and its implications on driving activities.
Is it legal to drive with medical cannabis if you have a prescription?
The legality of driving with medical cannabis in Australia depends on several factors. It is legal to drive while being treated with CBD-only products, since they do not contain the psychoactive component of THC. However, it is illegal to drive with any amount of THC in your system in all states except Tasmania. In Tasmania, you may claim an exemption from this type of driving offence if you have a prescription and your THC levels are minor. It is recommended that patients do not drive at all while being treated with medical cannabis products containing THC. In other parts of Australia, police roadside drug testing only tests for the presence of THC, not your cognitive impairment, so you may still face consequences even if your driving skills are not impaired.
Can I drive to work while being treated with medicinal cannabis?
You can drive to work while being treated with medical cannabis if it is a CBD-only product. However, you may not drive or operate heavy machinery while being treated with THC products (in all states excluding Tasmania). This is because your cognitive function could be impacted by cannabis products containing THC. THC in particular is also a restricted substance in many Australian workplaces. This means you may face consequences if you test positive for THC at work, even if you have a prescription. However, many workplaces allow CBD-only treatments. Speak directly with your workplace about their drug policies before starting treatment with medicinal THC products. This way, you can discuss treatment options with your doctor that both help your condition and comply with your workplace regulations.
How soon can I drive after taking cannabis medicines containing THC?
It is recommended that you don’t drive at all while being treated with cannabis medicines containing THC. THC may take days or even weeks to leave your system. Everyone’s endocannabinoid system interacts with cannabis differently, so it’s hard to determine just how long you’ll experience the effects of THC, or how long it remains in your system. For this reason, it is safest to refrain from driving throughout your treatment. Depending on your state or territory, you may face consequences for driving with THC in your system. If you need to drive for work or daily activities, speak to your doctor about CBD-only medicine alternatives.
Little Green Pharma is dedicated to providing top-quality, affordable cannabis medicines to Australians. Our products are made in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices, and meet Australia’s stringent standards. We’ve even partnered with health insurer HIF to help keep medicinal cannabis prices down. HIF members with Pharmacy included in their extras may be eligible for a rebate on cannabis medicines. For more information about medicinal cannabis products in Australia, chat with our customer assistance team, or book a consultation with a qualified medical professional.
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