Medical Cannabis Hospitals in Bangkok: Navigating Clinics, Treatments, Benefits

Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital known for its rich culture and lively streets, is now becoming known for its progressive approach to medical cannabis.

With the legalisation and growing acceptance of cannabis for medical purposes, several hospitals and clinics in Bangkok are now offering medical marijuana-based treatments for different conditions.

The process to get medical weed across these clinics is similar – visit a doctor for a consultation, get a prescription, and follow up. The cannabis products prescribed are mainly tinctures & oils – which they either make in-house or provide the ones approved by the GPO.

We will look at these in detail below, starting with the list of medicinal cannabis clinics in the Thai capital. We will then look at the basic prescription process and the products you can get. We will also briefly touch upon the health benefits of marijuana to highlight why these clinics and hospitals can offer a green solution.

List of Top-Rated Medical Cannabis Clinics in BKK

BNH Hospital

• Address: 9/1 Convent Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
• Phone number: +6620220700

For over 124 years, BNH Hospital has been a pillar in the medical community. It is also the first private hospital to open a medical cannabis clinic.

Its recent venture, the BLOOM UP medical cannabis clinic, exemplifies its commitment to pioneering healthcare.

The clinic is a synergy of expertise and innovation, offering cannabis-based treatments for various ailments. Managed by a team of certified professionals, it symbolises the blend of heritage and progression in medical practices.

The clinic’s medical team is certified by the Department of Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, and recognised by the Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health. They have been trained and are licensed to dispense medical marijuana in 5 different fields, including dermatology, diseases of the brain and nervous system, rehabilitation medicine, physical therapy and pain, and internist.

Sawasdee Clinic

• Address: 47 Phahon Yothin 63 Alley, Anusawari, Bang Khen, Bangkok 10220
• Phone number: +6629724014

Sawasdee Clinic is a beacon of hope for patients with chronic and complex conditions. Specialising in treatments for severe epilepsy, muscle spasms, nerve pain, and palliative care, the clinic has carved a niche in using medicinal cannabis.

The founder of this clinic is Dr. Jintana Manorompatrasal, a renowned medical cannabis specialist in Thailand and one of the keynote speakers of the 2023 CISW CMCI Summit. She has over 30 years of experience after practising at Bhumipol Hospital and Chulabhorn Hospital.

The approach of Sawasdee Clinic is deeply rooted in an integrative methodology, combining the essence of traditional Thai medicine, marijuana, and contemporary Western practices, creating a holistic treatment environment. With certified doctors specialising in the use of cannabis, the clinic prescribes medications derived from THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids for relief.

Navaminthra (Navamin 9) Hospital

• Address: 96 Sihaburanukit Rd, Khwaeng Min Buri, Min Buri, Bangkok 10510

• Phone number: +6625181818

Navamin 9 Hospital, housing the ‘Doctor Gan’ medical cannabis clinic, is a testament to Bangkok’s evolving medicinal marijuana treatment landscape. It was launched shortly after cannabis was decriminalised in Thailand in June 2022.

The clinic is known for its wide array of services, catering to patients seeking cannabis for its therapeutic properties. The doctors there employ marijuana with the Thai traditional medicine practices. It stands out for its patient-centric approach, ensuring each individual receives care tailored to their needs.

Bangkok Integrative Medicine (BIM Poly Clinic)

• Address: 2 อาคาร เค.ซี.ซี Soi Sueksa Witthaya, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
• Phone number: +66971817151

BIM Poly Clinic offers a unique perspective on health and wellness at the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern medicine. The clinic’s use of cannabis in treatments demonstrates its commitment to holistic care, integrating various medical philosophies to provide the best patient outcomes.

They specialise in treating migraines, office syndrome, and chronic muscle pain.

HE Clinic for Men

• Address: Fifty-Fifth Thonglor, 2nd Floor, 90 Thonglor Soi 2, Khlong Tan Nuea, Wattana, Bangkok 10110
• Phone number: +66825888647

This clinic is a pioneer in men’s health, integrating medical cannabis into its range of services. By focusing on the specific needs of men, the HE Clinic exemplifies how specialised care can be enhanced with the therapeutic properties of cannabis.

It provides online and in-person consultations for patients, thus offering an added layer of convenience.

Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health

• Address: QG8P+83Q, Ratchawithi Rd, Thung Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

• Phone number: 1415

At the forefront of pediatric care, this institute has embraced medical cannabis as a part of its treatment repertoire, showing its adaptability and progressive approach in the field of child health.

The Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health has significantly contributed to understanding medical cannabis by participating in a pivotal study. This research focused on assessing the efficacy of CBD (cannabidiol)-enriched medical cannabis products in managing pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy.

The findings from this study not only highlighted the potential benefits of CBD in treating challenging epilepsy cases in children but also emphasized the importance of carefully monitored, low-dose treatments to optimize patient outcomes and minimize adverse effects.

Thai Traditional and Integrated Medicine Hospital

• Address: 693 Bamrung Mueang Rd, Khlong Maha Nak, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok
• Phone number: +6622243262

This hospital is a fusion of age-old Thai medical traditions and modern practices, with cannabis-based treatments as a cornerstone of its therapeutic services.

The hospital’s healthcare approach reflects Thailand’s rich medical heritage, blending seamlessly with contemporary medical advancements. They have a few other branches at the Chaengwattana Government Center, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and Yossae.

Our team found that they prescribe only CBD oils to patients for now.

Galya Rajanagarinda Institute

• Address: Phuttamonthon Sai 4 Road, Wattana District, 10170, Bangkok
• Phone number: +6624416100

Specialising in psychiatric care, the Galya Rajanagarinda Institute incorporates cannabis into its treatment regimens, representing an innovative step in mental health therapy.

Their focus on using cannabis-based treatments – particularly with CBD – showcases a modern approach to addressing various psychiatric conditions. The institute is committed to exploring new and effective treatment methods by integrating this natural therapy into traditional psychiatric practices.

How to get medical cannabis prescriptions in Bangkok?

• Consultation with a doctor: The step involves meeting a doctor at authorised hospitals/clinics – like the ones mentioned here for Bangkok. The patient’s medical history and condition are thoroughly evaluated to see if they qualify for medicinal marijuana.
• Obtaining a prescription: The doctor will issue a prescription detailing the type of cannabis product, dosage, and treatment duration if cannabis is considered appropriate.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the patient’s response to the treatment and adjust the prescription if necessary.

For best results, follow the doctor’s advice and stick to the medication schedule recommended.

What kind of cannabis products are available for medicinal use?

Depending on the condition and severity of the symptoms, Doctors will recommend either of the following three products to patients.

• GPO cannabis oils: The Government Pharmaceutical Organisation (GPO) has developed three cannabis oil solutions, which have been added to the Thailand National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM). These solutions – approved by the Thai FDA – vary in their THC and CBD content and are prescribed for various conditions.
• CBD oils: These include extracts with cannabidiol (CBD) as an ingredient with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) not exceeding 0.2% of the weight. They are used for a range of therapeutic purposes.
• Topicals: Cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and creams provide localized pain relief without inducing a high. They are applied directly to the affected area for quick relief​​.

Note: You may also buy cannabis without a prescription at any of the several cannabis dispensaries in Bangkok; many of these products are for recreational use.

Health benefits of marijuana: What can it do for you?

Cannabis has garnered global attention for its potential health benefits. With a history of use spanning centuries, modern research has begun to shed light on how cannabis can aid in various medical conditions. Here are some key benefits:

• Alleviating chronic pain: Cannabis is known for its pain-relieving properties, making it a viable option for those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
• Treatment for epilepsy and seizures: Studies have shown that cannabis, particularly CBD, can significantly reduce seizure frequency in epilepsy patients.
• Sleep Aid: Cannabis is often used to improve sleep quality, particularly for individuals suffering from sleep disorders like insomnia.
• Managing mental health disorders: Cannabis has been used to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, though its use must be carefully monitored.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant’s anti-inflammatory effects benefit conditions like Crohn’s disease and arthritis.
• Neuroprotective qualities: Cannabis is being explored for its potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and ALS.
• Appetite stimulation: Particularly in HIV/AIDS and cancer patients, cannabis can stimulate appetite and alleviate severe nausea arising from the use of medications/chemotherapy.

While cannabis has shown plenty of promise in easing these conditions, it is important to note it affects every person differently. What works for one may not work for the other. As such, cannabis should be best used under a doctor’s supervision when taken for medical conditions.

Conclusion

To wrap up, Thailand’s use of cannabis in hospitals and clinics is a great example of combining old medicine ways with new health treatments. From leading hospitals like BNN and Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health to dedicated cannabis clinics like Sawasdee, there is plenty of hope for those seeking a natural remedy for their health conditions.

These dedicated facilities, along with the widespread availability of diverse cannabis products, affirm Thailand’s commitment to exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis. Powered by Thai FDA-approved GPO cannabis oils and other similar products by the industry leaders, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in cannabis-based medical treatment.