Medical Cannabis Prescription Thailand: How to Get, Products, Legal Landscape

The legalisation of medical cannabis in 2018 marked a huge change for Thailand. It introduced a new era where traditional Thai herbal medicine and cannabis converged to offer a holistic approach to healthcare.

Medical cannabis clinics are now offering a variety of treatments, including tinctures, oils, and flowers. These cater to various health conditions, such as pain, inflammation, and anxiety.

At the same time, the Thai government is working to refine the legal landscape surrounding cannabis use. Recent legislative proposals aim to tighten controls, particularly around recreational use, while reinforcing its medical application.

The article provides a concise guide on the current process of obtaining a medical cannabis prescription in Thailand. We will explore this against the backdrop of the nation’s legal framework governing cannabis use and how it may look in the future.

How to get medical marijuana prescriptions in Thailand?

Find a clinic that specialises in medical cannabis, make an appointment, and discuss with your doctor. These are the three basic steps involved in getting a medicinal weed prescription in Thailand; let’s look at them in detail below:

• Step 1: Book an appointment

Begin by arranging a meeting with a clinic/hospital specialising in medical cannabis treatment. Do not confuse these for dispensaries that sell cannabis.

What you need is a consultation with a doctor who has experience in Thai traditional medicine and cannabis. There are government-approved clinics that do just this; we have provided a brief list below.

• Step 2: Discuss your health background

During your consultation, openly talk about your health issues. It’s crucial to provide your doctor with detailed information about your medical history. This includes sharing any relevant medical documents, detailing your current and past medications, and explaining your specific symptoms and conditions.

• Step 3: Assessment of your medical conditions

The doctor will conduct a detailed medical examination to evaluate your condition. It’s important to note that in some cases, medical marijuana may be recommended as an option only after traditional treatments have been found ineffective. In other words, there is no guarantee that you will get medicinal weed – that decision is at the doctor’s discretion.

• Step 4: Issuance of the prescription

You will receive a prescription if the doctor determines that medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment for you. You will have to submit your ID documents (passport if you are a foreigner).

It’s essential to use the medication as directed and maintain regular communication with your doctor to monitor your treatment’s effectiveness.

Where can you get the prescription?

In Thailand, a network of clinics and hospitals across the country provides access to medical cannabis prescriptions for patients.

Bangkok

For those in the Thai capital, a comprehensive guide is available which lists leading medical marijuana clinics in Bangkok.

Beyond Bangkok, other major Thai cities also boast reputable medical facilities specialising in cannabis treatments. Below is a curated list of hospitals in various key locations throughout Thailand.

Phuket

Chalong Hospital

• Address: 99 Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
• Telephone: +6676384342 ext. 3720

Vachira Phuket Hospital

• Address: 353 Yaowarad Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
• Telephone: +6676361234 ext. 2552

Patong Hospital

• Address: 57 Sainamyen Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83120
• Telephone: +6676361234 ext. 2552

Chiang Mai

San Pa Tong Hospital

• Address: 149 ถนนเชียงใหม่-ฮอด Yu Wa, San Pa Tong District, Chiang Mai 50120
• Telephone:  +6653931730 or +6653931728

Chiangmai Neurological Hospital

• Address: 2 Suthep Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
• Telephone:  +6653920200

Nakornping Hospital

• Address: 159 หมู่ที่ 10 Don Kaeo, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180
• Telephone: +6653999200

Pattaya

Chonburi Hospital

• Address: 69 หมู่ที่ 2 Sukhumvit Rd, Ban Suan, Chon Buri District, Chon Buri 20000
• Telephone: +6638931520

Bang Lamung Hospital for Pattaya

• Address: 669 หมู่ที่ 5 Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150
• Telephone: +66384115511 – 2 ext. 223

Phanat Nikhom Hospital

• Address: 68 หมู่ที่ 6 Thanon Sukprayun, Kut Ngong, Phanat Nikhom District, Chon Buri 20140
• Telephone: +6638460333

Surat Thani

Suratthani Hospital

• Address: 56 หมู่ที่ 2 Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000
• Telephone: +6677915600 ext. 7249

Chaiyaburi Hospital

• Address: F39J+QG 114 หมู่ที่ 3 Song Phraek, Chai Buri District, Surat Thani 84350
• Telephone: +6677367075 ext. 122

Tha Chang Hospital

• Address: 755Q+76W, Tha Chang, Tha Chang District, Surat Thani 84150
• Telephone: +6677389111

Nakhon Ratchasima

Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital

• Address: 49 Changphuak Rd, Tambon Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000
• Telephone: +6644232240

Luangphor Khoon Parisutho Hospital

• Address: 6Q4W+J6W, Dan Khun Thot, Dan Khun Thot District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30210
• Telephone: +6644208208 ext. 100

Suranaree University of Technology Hospital

• Address: 111 หมู่ที่ 6 University Ave, Suranari, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000
• Telephone: +6644376555

Udon Thani

Udon Thani Hospital

• Address: 33 Popniyom Road, ตำบล หมากเเข้ง Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani 41000
• Telephone: +6642245555 ext. 1200, 1241

Thai Traditional Medicine Hospital Health District Branch 8 Udon Thani

• Address:  9Q4P+7XG Mak Khaeng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Udon Thani 41000
• Telephone: +6642180880

Kumphawapi Hospital

• Address:  97 Moo 7 ถ.จิตรประสงค์ Kumphawapi, Kumphawapi District, Udon Thani 41110
• Telephone: +6642334400-3 ext. 7006 or +6642334412-3 ext. 7006

What are the qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use?

In Thailand, the Ministry of Health recognizes a variety of conditions for medical marijuana treatment. These include:

• Nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients, refractory epilepsy, central nervous system pain, muscle spasms due to nerve degeneration, anorexia in AIDS patients, and enhancing the quality of life in palliative care.
• Other conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), peripheral neuropathy, and terminal cancer, are also considered potential candidates for treatment. However, medical cannabis for these is at the doctor’s discretion.
• Additionally, conditions like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Autism, Crohn’s Disease, Dyskinetic Disorders, Glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Huntington’s Disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Opioid Use Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sickle Cell Anemia, and Tourette Syndrome are potentially recognised for medical cannabis treatment.

It is important to remember that having these conditions does not automatically mean you are eligible for medical weed. Your doctor will make the final decision.

What kind of cannabis products can you get prescribed?

In Thailand, the range of cannabis products available for prescription primarily includes GPO cannabis oil, CBD oil, and tinctures. These are often the first options considered for medical use due to their standardized dosages and ease of administration.

While flowers and edibles are also available, their prescription is not as common, and not every clinic may offer them. The focus in medical treatment tends to be on extracts, which are easier to dose and use in a controlled manner.

Importantly, all cannabis products prescribed in Thailand are approved by the Thai FDA, ensuring their safety and compliance with medical standards.

Importance of consulting with the doctor

Consulting with a doctor is a crucial step in the process of using medical cannabis.

Numerous studies underscore the importance of medical supervision when using cannabis. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry highlights the role of healthcare providers in mitigating risks associated with cannabis use, especially in patients with mental health conditions.

Doctors can help with:

• Personalised treatment plans: Doctors can assess patient health conditions and determine if medical cannabis is suitable. They develop personalised treatment plans based on the patient’s specific needs, ensuring effective and safe use.
• Managing side effects and interactions: Medical professionals are equipped to inform patients about the potential side effects of cannabis and its interactions with other medications. This is vital for preventing adverse reactions and ensuring patient safety.
• Monitoring and adjusting dosage: Doctors play a critical role in monitoring the effects of medical cannabis and adjusting dosages as necessary. This ongoing assessment is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes.
• Compliance with legal regulations: In many countries, a doctor’s prescription is mandatory for accessing medical cannabis. This ensures compliance with legal frameworks and responsible use.
• Educational resource: Doctors can educate patients on the responsible use of medical cannabis, including administration methods, and the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages.

Managing the side effects of cannabis

While medical cannabis has therapeutic benefits, it’s important to acknowledge its adverse effects, which can be managed under a doctor’s supervision:

• Psychoactive effects: Cannabis, especially strains high in THC, can cause psychoactive effects, including altered perception and mood changes.
• Cognitive impairments: Short-term memory loss, impaired motor coordination, and concentration difficulties are possible side effects.
• Physical reactions: Dry mouth, increased heart rate, and dizziness are common physical responses to cannabis use.
• Mental health risks: In susceptible individuals, cannabis can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders.
• Drug interactions: Cannabis can interact with various medications, altering their effects. This is particularly important for patients taking medications for chronic conditions.

While medical cannabis can be helpful, consulting with a doctor is needed for safe and effective use. For example, taking GPO THC oil along with your blood pressure medication can lead to severe complications – this can be avoided by speaking to your doctor.

What can a potential regulation of medical marijuana look like in Thailand?

Thailand could develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for medical cannabis, incorporating best practices observed in Canada, Australia, Europe, and parts of the USA. The key elements of such a model might include:

1. Licensing and regulation: Establishing a robust licensing system for cultivators, producers, and retailers of medical cannabis to ensure quality control and safety standards.
2. Patient registration and prescription: Implementing a patient registry system where individuals receive medical cannabis prescriptions based on specific qualifying conditions, ensuring access is restricted to eligible patients.
3. Product Standardisation and testing: Enforcing rigorous testing for potency and purity of medical cannabis products, guaranteeing consistency and safety for patients. This step is vital for patient safety and to maintain trust in the medical cannabis system​​.
4. Educational and research initiatives: Building on the existing scientific research in Thailand and education around medical cannabis to build a better understanding of its therapeutic benefits and risks.
5. Controlled access and dispensing: Establishing controlled access points where medical cannabis prescriptions can be filled under professional supervision. This measure would help regulate the distribution and ensure that only prescribed patients have access to medical cannabis.
6. Tourism and medical cannabis: Exploring options to integrate medical cannabis within Thailand’s tourism sector. Since cannabis was decriminalised, Thailand witnessed an incredible surge in tourists looking to enjoy marijuana. Regulations can continue to boost the economy while preventing misuse.

What do the current laws say?

The legal landscape for medical cannabis in Thailand has been dynamic and complex. As of 2024, the Thai government, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has taken significant steps to regulate cannabis use, focusing strictly on medical applications.

This represents a major shift from the previous government’s more liberal approach, which had decriminalised cannabis and allowed for its widespread use.

Note that cannabis for medicinal use has been legal in the kingdom since 2018 – and it will most definitely be so in the future too.

The Ministry of Public Health has proposed a bill that aims to reintroduce strict penalties for both the possession and recreational use of cannabis. This move is intended to rectify the widespread weed use and regulate the blooming cannabis industry, ensuring that it focuses solely on medical use​​​​.

Despite these regulatory efforts, the government has not indicated a return to full prohibition. Instead, it appears more likely that Thailand will adopt responsible regulation, focusing on medical and therapeutic use rather than recreational.

This could include ensuring all operators are licensed and that the industry adheres to specific health and safety guidelines. There might also be provisions for more liberal consumption in tourist areas, although this remains speculative​​.

Conclusion

Getting a medical cannabis prescription in Thailand requires consulting with a doctor in specialised clinics and discussing your condition. The doctor will decide if you are eligible for medicinal weed – which includes GPO-approved cannabis oils, CBD oils, and extracts. Should you qualify, it is crucial to speak to your doctor regularly to monitor your progress and the effectiveness of the treatment plan.

As the country navigates legality around cannabis, one thing is clear – medicinal marijuana is here to stay. The rules will be defined more clearly on how to get it and who can get it, ensuring patients have safe and legal access to this valuable resource.