Dry Herb Vaporiser

What is Medical Cannabis

What is Medical Cannabis (Cannabis Based Medical Products)

What is Medical Cannabis? What is it used to treat?

Cannabis Based Medical Products (CBMPs) or Medical Cannabis are medications derived from the cannabis plant, containing cannabidiol (CBD) and/or Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC – which is the psychoactive substance in cannabis). In the UK medical cannabis has been legal since 2018 for the treatment of psychological, neurological, and chronic pain conditions as well as, palliative and/or end of life care: for sake of brevity a full list of conditions treated in the UK is highlighted in eligibility section of this website.

What’s the eligibility criteria?

With cannabis based medical products (CBMPs) being unlicenced, the census would be for patients to evidence unmet clinical needs i.e., their health is not improving despite having ongoing treatment or interventions via conventional healthcare services. It is important for all patients to recognise that due to cannabis containing a psychoactive substance, for the safety of potential patients, if you have any of the diagnosis listed in the exclusion criteria, you will not be eligible. We would advise these patients to liaise with their consultants at the NHS and explore an alternative treatment method to support their health needs.

Patients have a right to a second opinion, provided they do not have any counterindications listed in the exclusion criteria below. Patient’s must be over 18 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria?  

Like all medications, CBMPs is not advisable to use if you struggle from one of the following: –

  • Suffer with high BP (If this is not stable)
  • History of psychosis
  • Diagnosis of schizophrenia
  • Heart condition (Which has NOT been stable for 6+ months)
  • Pregnant or breast-feeding

What are the side effects of medical cannabis?

Side effects of CBMPs include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Imbalance
  • Euphoria
  • Diarrhea
  • Dry mouth
  • Anxiety and/or Depression
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Psychological Dependence
  • Tolerance
  • Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)

Adverse reactions include:

  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea

If you experience an adverse reaction, it is important that you report your symptoms to the MHRA via yellow card, who are the medicines and healthcare products regulatory agency. To report a yellow card, please follow this link and fill out the form: Yellow Card | Making medicines and medical devices safer (mhra.gov.uk). It is also vital that you inform your clinic, to ensure this medication is not prescribed to you again in the future.

Cannabis dependence:

Cannabis dependence is known clinically as cannabis use disorder, and user’s of any form of medicines, including medical cannabis are prone to psychological dependency.

Signs of Psychological dependence include:

  • Not using medications as prescribed -> using more than required or larger dosages and/or more frequently
  • Withdrawal
  • Developed a tolerance and require more
  • Failed repeated attempts to control or stop use
  • Physical or psychological concerns related to use (i.e., respiratory concerns or fluctuation in mood)
  • Missing relevant appointments or work to use
  • Craving for purposes other than prescribed

If you experience any of the following, please get in touch with your prescriber, so that they may manage this concern accordingly.

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, also known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, can affect people who are exposed to prolonged, high doses of cannabis: this can also occur with medical cannabis use.

Signs of Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome include:

  • Intense nausea and vomiting
  • Projectile vomiting (can happen without warning, up to 5x an hour)
  • Extreme Diarrhea
  • Lack of appetite
  • Weight loss

Although this is uncommon, if you experience any of the following, please reduce use or stop where possible and urgently alert your prescriber. If symptoms are uncontrollable, please seek urgent medical intervention as you are at risk of dehydration.

Monitoring BP / Warfin prescription

Medical cannabis can for some people cause heart palpations, it is important that people with a history of high blood pressure or a heart condition to be mindful of this, particularly those on warfarin as cannabis can impact the liver enzymes, interacting with other medications. It is important that you work alongside your GP and relevant health care professionals to adequately address your heart.

If you are someone who meets this criterion, regularly monitoring your blood pressure would aid in ensuring your safety and enables you to appropriately reach out for support.

Blood pressure guidance:

Low 90/60 or below Inform GP and clinic, if unwell seek medical attention
Ok 90/60 – 140/90 Continue to monitor – update clinic at FUP appointment
Raised 141/91 – 179/119 Raised, monitor and inform GP and clinic
High 180/120 or more Significant risk, needs urgent review – update GP and clinic

 

What is Medical Cannabis Read More »

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Venue Protocol

The Sanskara Protocol

"Medical Cannabis Friendly Space". Vaporiser with Cannabis Leaf. "This Space is Inclusive towards individuals with a legitimate medical cannabis prescription. Responsible Use Only." Sanskara Logo.
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Reaching out to venues/events can be daunting and while it may seem innocent and of good nature to let the venue/event know of your intentions to bring your medical device and medicine along with you, you may find that the use of the word “cannabis” or “vaporiser” may raise some eyebrows and could provide you with a straight up “NO!”

As this is not ideal, most patients would rather have a positive experience and not be suffering from their condition while out and about. There are some patients who would rather not contact the place they are going as this may be difficult for them for many reasons. However, we have put together a simple step by step guide for patients to ensure they get the answer they should be getting and that the awareness can spread among the general public, in turn supporting those patients that can’t make the initial contact. Using the right language is crucial to ensure a positive experience. 

You can find our list of venues that are inclusive and will respect the rights of patients prescribed cannabis here – Approved Venues

Based on experiences patients have had and our interaction with businesses and the Devon & Cornwall Police, here’s a protocol we recommend patients follow:

Verbal Interactions

Remain calm at all times and stay positive. Ask a family or friend to speak on your behalf if the confrontation is not comfortable for you.

Patient: Hello, I will be required to use a medical device to consume my medication.

Person: (This is when they may ask what the device is)

Patient: Heated Nebuliser is a device used to consume my cannabis based medication prescribed to me by a doctor.

Person: (They may say that there is a no smoking/vaping policy or refute cannabis is legal)

Patient: “I understand that many are not aware of medical cannabis being legal since 2018” (You may wish to present your medication and optionally offer to show the label and an ID) “And as my medical device is a heated nebulising device used for medical purposes, it is exempt from this policy.”

Person: (Still may refuse and may say that others may complain or be jealous for not being able to vape themselves)

Patient: In line with the Equality Act 2010, as a service provider, you must not discriminate and you must treat disabled individuals more favourably than non-disabled individuals. As I have a condition being treated with medication, I fall under this protected characteristic.

If they continue to discriminate or refuse your rights, immediately report this incident to the Police as a hate crime as well as write a report on the Gov.uk website (www.gov.uk/report-hate-crime)

Email Communications (Recommended prior to visit)

Patient Guide: Ensuring a Positive Experience at Venues/Events

 
Step 1: Identify Venue/Event Contact Details
  • Ideally, reach out to the accessibility or safeguarding team for more targeted assistance.
Step 2: Craft a Thoughtful Email Using the Template

Subject: Notice of Intention to Use Medical Device

Dear [Venue/Event Organiser's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. As someone who utilises medical devices for health reasons, I am reaching out to inquire about [Event/Venue Name]'s policy regarding the use of nebulisers on your premises. I wanted to understand the venue's stance on such devices. 

Nebulisers come in different types, each serving various medical requirements:

Ultrasonic nebulizing systems: An assembly of devices designed to generate aerosolized medication/fluids (finely dispersed airborne droplets) for inhalation by a patient with a respiratory disorder [e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF)]. It typically consists of a mains electricity (AC-powered) electronic oscillator, an ultrasound transducer (piezoelectric crystal), a coupling basin, a nebulizer chamber and a fan. A high frequency (e.g., 1-2 MHz) electrical current is applied to the crystal within the oscillator circuit converting it to vibrations which produce sound waves. The coupler (water or saline) transmits the sound waves to the medicated solution in the nebulizing chamber.

Non-heated Nebulizing systems: An assembly of devices designed to generate non-heated aerosolized medication/fluids (finely dispersed airborne droplets in a liquid-phase) intended to be inhaled by a patient with a respiratory disorder [e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF)]. It includes an electrically-powered generator, a reservoir, and a hand-held nebulizing chamber where the nebulization of the medicine usually takes place.

Heated Nebulizing systems: An assembly of devices designed to generate warmed aerosolized medication/fluids (e.g., pharmacological drugs, cannabis-based products for medicinal use) intended to be inhaled by a patient, typically used in the management of respiratory disorders [e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF)] or various other conditions (e.g., chronic pain). It typically consists of an electrically-powered generator, a reservoir, a heating element, dosing capsules, and a hand-held nebulizing/inhalation compartment (e.g., inflatable balloon with mouthpiece).

I appreciate [Event/Venue Name]'s commitment to creating an inclusive environment. To ensure that attendees like myself with medical requirements can participate in events without disruption, I would like clarification on your policy regarding the use of nebuliser devices at the venue.

To assist your understanding, I am ready to provide any additional information or documentation you may require. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to a positive response. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Download Template
Step 3: Record All Responses
  • Keep a record of responses for follow-up communication.
 
Step 4: Follow-Up and Clarify Common Terminology
  • If the response is positive, follow up to clarify common terminology (“Heated Nebulisers” vs. “Dry Herb Vaporisers”).
  • Mention the use of Cannabis-based Products for Medicinal use (CBPM) and specify Medical Cannabis Flower (Bud) consumed using a Heated Nebuliser (Dry Herb Vaporiser).
  • Remind the venue of their policy (if positive) and the Equality Act 2010.
  • Emphasise the intention is not to seek explicit permission but to foster awareness.
 
Step 5: Responding to Negative or Neutral Responses
  • For negative responses, consider sending a polite follow-up, seeking clarification on the reasons for the refusal using the template provided:

Template Email For Negative Response

Dear [Venue/Event Organiser's Name],

Thank you for your prompt response and for taking the time to consider my inquiry regarding the use of nebuliser devices at [Event/Venue Name].

I understand that policies can vary, and I appreciate your diligence in addressing such matters. However, I would like to seek further clarification on the reasons behind the limitation on nebuliser devices at the venue. My primary goal is to foster awareness and ensure a positive and inclusive experience for individuals with medical requirements.

As someone who relies on medical devices for health reasons, it's crucial for me to understand and, if possible, address any concerns the venue may have regarding the use of a heated nebuliser. I am more than willing to provide additional information or documentation to ease any reservations and ensure compliance with venue policies.

Additionally, I would be grateful if you could direct me to the appropriate department or individual who could shed more light on this matter. If there are specific guidelines or protocols in place, I am committed to adhering to them while ensuring my medical needs are met.

Thank you once again for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to any further insights you can provide.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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  •  For neutral responses, ensure the individual has acknowledged the email and forwarded it to the correct department. Follow up directly with the correct department, using the reference number provided, to seek clarification or address concerns. Use this template to assist you:

Template Email for Neutral or No Response

Dear [Venue/Event Organiser's Name],

I trust this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my recent inquiry about the use of nebuliser devices at [Venue/Event Name]. As an individual who relies on medical devices for health reasons, fostering inclusivity and ensuring an understanding of diverse health needs is important to me.

I understand that you may receive numerous inquiries, and I appreciate your time and attention to this matter. If you've had an opportunity to review my initial inquiry, I would be grateful for any insights or feedback you can provide. My intention is to ensure that I can participate in events without causing any disruption and to collaborate with venues in achieving this goal.

I am aware that venue policies vary, and I want to assure you that I am open to providing any necessary documentation or information to address any concerns you may have. Your feedback is essential, and I am eager to engage in constructive dialogue to find a mutually beneficial solution.

Thank you for considering my inquiry. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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Step 6: Attend or Decide Not to Attend Based on Communication
  • Attend the venue/event with your medication and medical device if the outcome is positive.
  • Remind the venue/event hosts about the importance of training staff and security on this matter.

Template Email of Acknowledgment and Clarification

Dear [Venue/Event Organiser's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I appreciate your positive response regarding the use of nebuliser devices at [Venue/Event Name]. Your commitment to creating an inclusive environment is commendable, and I am grateful for your understanding of diverse health needs.

To ensure a seamless experience for all attendees, especially those with medical requirements like myself, I would like to request that your staff and security team are made aware of my attendance, including the fact that I may be using my CBPM with a heated nebuliser device (dry herb vaporiser) for health reasons. This proactive measure will help avoid any confusion during the event and contribute to a more inclusive atmosphere.

I am willing to provide any additional information or documentation necessary to facilitate this process. 

Once again, thank you for your positive response and commitment to inclusivity. I look forward to attending [Venue/Event Name] with the assurance that my medical needs will be accommodated appropriately.

If you have any further instructions or if there's anything else I should be aware of, please do not hesitate to inform me.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Download Template

Venue Protocol Read More »

Dosing Guidance for Dry Herb Vaporising

Dry herb vaporising offers a precise and efficient way to consume cannabis, allowing users to experience the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes without the potential harms associated with smoking. To ensure a safe and enjoyable vaporising experience, it’s essential to understand the boiling points of various terpenes and cannabinoids and how they impact the effects of cannabis.

Importance of Temperature Control
Temperature control is a critical aspect of dry herb vaporising, as different compounds in cannabis vaporise at specific temperatures. By adjusting the temperature, users can target specific cannabinoids and terpenes to customise their experience.

Boiling Points of Common Cannabinoids

Cannabinoid Boiling Point (°C)
THC 157°C
CBD 160-180°C
CBG 52-65°C
CBN 185°C
CBC 220°C
THCV 220°C

Boiling Points of Common Terpenes

Terpene Boiling Point (°C)
Myrcene 167°C
Limonene 176°C
Pinene 155°C
Linalool 198°C
Caryophyllene 130°C
Humulene 198°C
Terpinolene 185°C
Bisabolol 329°C
Eucalyptol 176°C
Guaiol 167°C
Nerolidol 161°C
Phytol 160°C

Dosage and Temperature Recommendations:

Cannabinoid / Terpene Temperature Range (°C) Potential Effects and Benefits
THC 157°C Euphoria, Relaxation, Pain Relief
CBD 160-180°C Anti-inflammatory, Anxiolytic, Anticonvulsant
CBG 52-65°C Neuroprotective, Anti-inflammatory, Potential Antibacterial Effects
CBN 185°C Mild Sedation, Potential Sleep Aid
CBC 220°C Anti-inflammatory, Potential Antidepressant Effects
THCV 220°C Potential Appetite Suppressant, Anticonvulsant
Myrcene 167°C Sedating, Relaxing, Potential Anti-inflammatory Effects
Limonene 176°C Uplifting, Mood-Enhancing, Potential Antioxidant Effects
Pinene 155°C Alertness, Memory Enhancement, Potential Bronchodilator
Linalool 198°C Calming, Stress-Reducing, Potential Analgesic Effects
Caryophyllene 130°C Anti-inflammatory, Potential Gastro-protective Effects, No Psychoactive effects
Humulene 198°C Anti-inflammatory, Potential Appetite Suppressant
Terpinolene 185°C Uplifting, Potential Antioxidant and Anticancer Effects
Bisabolol 329°C Calming, Potential Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Eucalyptol 176°C Potential Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects
Guaiol 167°C Potential Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Nerolidol 161°C Calming, Potential Sedative and Anti-fungal Effects
Phytol 160°C Potential Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Dosage Recommendations
Dosage for dry herb vaporising depends on several factors, including individual tolerance, desired effects, the potency of the cannabis strain and prescriber’s guidance. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved.

Safety Considerations
Always use a reputable vaporiser with accurate temperature controls to ensure precise dosing and avoid combustion. High temperatures (above 230°C) may produce harmful by-products and should be avoided.

Conclusion
Dry herb vaporising provides a customisable and controlled method of cannabis consumption. Understanding the boiling points of cannabinoids and a wide range of terpenes allows users to fine-tune their experience and target specific effects. Start with low temperatures and dosage, gradually increasing as needed, to enjoy the full potential of cannabinoids and terpenes while minimising potential adverse effects.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this context is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice under any circumstances. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner before making any decisions or taking any actions related to medical treatment or dosing. The content here does not replace professional medical guidance, and any reliance on the information presented is at your own risk. We strive to maintain accuracy and up-to-date information; however, we do not warrant the completeness, reliability, or validity of the information provided. Therefore, we disclaim any liability for any adverse outcomes or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information mentioned here. Always seek personalised medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider for your specific medical condition or situation.

Dosing Guidance for Dry Herb Vaporising Read More »

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