Designed for Pharmacists - Fundamental Modules

While well-known systems like the sympathetic nervous system are widely understood, doctors may be less familiar with the more recently identified endocannabinoid system (ECS).1,2 The ECS is thought to be involved in regulating pain, immunity, stress, appetite, weight, and nausea, yet it remains largely absent from traditional medical education in Australia.3 What will you learn?This module aims to equip you with the skills and confidence to integrate medical cannabis into patient care when clinically appropriate. Drawing on current evidence and theoretical case studies, the module explores the ECS, cannabinoid pharmacology, proposed therapeutic effects, and the clinical implications of both ECS function and use of medical cannabis. Through interactive scenarios and evidence summaries, you’ll explore how this knowledge may be relevant to clinical applications—ranging from the potential involvement of the ECS in patient presentations to identifying possible treatment approaches. Estimated Duration: 4 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Identify the endocannabinoid system’s components, role and functions, as currently understood Describe how endocannabinoid system function and dysfunction may contribute to symptoms such as pain, anxiety, sleep disturbance and inflammation Interpret how the mechanism of the endocannabinoid system may inform the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis Explain the pharmacological effects of THC and CBD Identify clinical features suggestive of cannabinoid tolerance or receptor desensitisation Describe the limitations and uncertainties in the current evidence relating to the endocannabinoid system References Harvard Health Publishing. The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569 (accessed Aug 2025). Parliament of Australia. Current barriers to patient access to medicinal cannabis in Australia. https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/committees/reportsen/024403/toc_pdf/CurrentbarrierstopatientaccesstomedicinalcannabisinAustralia.pdf (accessed Aug 2025). Hillard CJ. Circulating Endocannabinoids: From Whence Do They Come and Where are They Going? Neuropsychopharmacology. 2018;43:155–172.

Medical cannabis use has expanded significantly in recent years,1 offering potential relief for many common conditions and symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea and vomiting, muscle spasms, sleep problems, epilepsy and some mental health conditions.2 While medical cannabis is generally considered to be "well tolerated," health practitioners and professionals must still maintain up-to-date knowledge on key considerations, including:3,4 Legislative contraindications and safety advice Potential adverse effects Drug-to-drug interactions Social and lifestyle impacts This module explores the safety profile and clinical contraindications of medical cannabis within the Australian healthcare setting. Designed for healthcare professionals, it covers key regulatory frameworks, TGA prescribing guidance, and access pathways. Learn to recognise when medical cannabis may be unsuitable, identify potential drug interactions, understand adverse effects, and address concerns such as cognitive impairment, dependence, and driving safety. By the end of this module, you'll be able to apply regulatory knowledge, assess patient suitability, and explain the physiological and behavioural effects associated with medical cannabis use. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Identify the primary regulatory bodies overseeing medical cannabis in Australia and explain their roles Explain the origins and scope of the TGA's prescribing guidance documents Describe the current status of medical cannabis products in Australia and identify the TGA's access pathways for unapproved goods Identify conditions for which medical cannabis is contraindicated and associated risks Recount TGA-recommended information to include in a clinical assessment Discuss potential drug-drug interactions in medical cannabis treatment and their underlying mechanisms Explain the safety profile of medical cannabis and potential side effects Describe how THC may affect driving safety and summarise the resulting legislation and guidelines Compare THC’s potential impact on driving with that of other substances Describe cannabis' addictive potential and highlight relevant research gaps in this area Detail the symptoms, mechanisms of action, and potential impacts of cannabis dependence and cannabis use disorder Describe the symptoms of cannabis withdrawal and consider possible treatment options Explain the potential cognitive effects of cannabis use References Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. (2024, February 10). Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency - Regulators come together as one million Australians turn to medicinal cannabis treatments. Retrieved from www.ahpra.gov.au website: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2024-02-20-medical-cannabis-treatment.aspx(Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2024) Therapeutic Goods Administration. (2024a, March 1). Medicinal cannabis: access pathways and usage data. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website: https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/medicinal-cannabis-hub/medicinal-cannabis-access-pathways-and-usage-data#patient-access-via-the-special-access-scheme-sas-and-authorised-prescriber-ap-pathway Arnold, J. C. (2021). A primer on medicinal cannabis safety and potential adverse effects. Retrieved from Australian Journal of General Practice website: https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2021/june/a-primer-on-medicinal-cannabis-safety-and-potentiaTherapeutic Goods Administration, 2024b) Therapeutic Goods Administration. (2024b, November 28). Guidance for the use of medicinal cannabis in Australia: Overview. Retrieved from Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website: https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/resource/reference-material/guidance-use-medicinal-cannabis-australia-overview

Terpenes are plant-based compounds responsible for a plant's aroma,¹ likely contributing to pigmentation and offering protection against environmental threats, such as predators or adverse weather conditions.² They may also provide therapeutic effects when ingested or applied topically, although in some cases, they can cause side effects.¹ While research on terpenes is still in its early stages, some studies suggest they may influence and enhance mood, potentially through interactions with body systems like the endocannabinoid system.³ Cannabis plants are particularly rich in terpenes, with over 150 types identified across various cannabis cultivars.⁴ Emerging evidence also indicates that terpenes might interact with other compounds, such as cannabinoids and additional terpenes, to produce synergistic or cumulative effects.⁵ However, this area of study remains in its infancy.⁶ These findings highlight the diverse therapeutic potential of medical cannabis cultivars, shaped by their unique compound profiles and effects.⁶ A deeper understanding of terpenes' therapeutic potential can help health practitioners make informed clinical decisions, tailored to each patient's individual needs, preferences, and overall well-being. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Define terpene Explain terpenes' functions in plants Discuss terpenes' hypothesised general functions in the body and potential interactions with other compounds Define terpenoid Explain the difference between terpenes and terpenoids Identify and describe characteristics of key terpenoid subclasses Explain the relevance of target boiling points for terpenes and terpenoids during medical cannabis administration Identify and describe key terpenes' and terpenoids' characteristics, mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential and target boiling point Identify current gaps in research and their implications for the clinical use of terpenes and terpenoids References: Paduch, Roman, et al. “Terpenes: Substances Useful in Human Healthcare.” Archivum Immunologiae et Therapiae Experimentalis, vol. 55, no. 5, Oct. 2007, pp. 315–327, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00005-007-0039-1. Yang, Jianming, et al. “Enhancing Production of Bio-Isoprene Using Hybrid MVA Pathway and Isoprene Synthase in E. Coli.” PLoS ONE, vol. 7, no. 4, 27 Apr. 2012, p. e33509, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0033509. Christensen, Catalina, et al. “Decoding the Postulated Entourage Effect of Medicinal Cannabis: What It Is and What It Isn’t.” Biomedicines, vol. 11, no. 8, 21 Aug. 2023, pp. 2323–2323, https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082323. Booth, Judith K., and Jörg Bohlmann. “Terpenes in Cannabis Sativa – from Plant Genome to Humans.” Plant Science, vol. 284, July 2019, pp. 67–72, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. LaVigne, Justin E., et al. “Cannabis Sativa Terpenes Are Cannabimimetic and Selectively Enhance Cannabinoid Activity.” Scientific Reports, vol. 11, no. 1, 15 Apr. 2021, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8. Sommano, Sarana Rose, et al. “The Cannabis Terpenes.” Molecules, vol. 25, no. 24, 1 Jan. 2020, p. 5792, www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/24/5792, https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25245792.

In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates the approval and monitoring of medications to ensure their quality, safety, and efficacy.¹ However, many medical cannabis products are classified as unapproved goods, as they have not undergone TGA evaluation. This module provides a detailed overview of the TGA's Authorised Prescriber Scheme, which enables registered medical practitioners to apply for the authority to prescribe unapproved medical cannabis products to multiple patients.² Learners will gain a clear understanding of the regulatory framework, the application process, and the responsibilities involved in prescribing unapproved medical cannabis products. This module is designed to equip healthcare practitioners with the knowledge to navigate the scheme effectively and confidently integrate medical cannabis into patient care when appropriate. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Clarify the purpose of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) Outline the categories of unregistered therapeutic goods Identify and explain the regulated access pathways for unapproved goods Summarise the purpose and eligibility criteria for each category of the Special Access Scheme (SAS), including SAS-A, SAS-B, and SAS-C Identify the information required for a SAS-B application Identify the main categories of medical cannabis products based on their CBD and THC content Summarise the purpose and main characteristics of each Authorised Prescriber Scheme pathway Apply to become an authorised prescriber and fulfil reporting obligations Discuss prescribing practitioner considerations and obligations for providing medical cannabis treatment References ¹ Therapeutic Goods Administration. “Prescribe an Unapproved Therapeutic Good (Health Practitioners).” Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), 14 Dec. 2022, www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/prescribe-unapproved-therapeutic-good-health-practitioners. ² Therapeutic Goods Administration. Unapproved products for multiple patients (Authorised Prescriber). Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Published July 14, 2023. Accessed November 28, 2024. https://www.tga.gov.au/services/unapproved-products-multiple-patients-authorised-prescriber

This module explores the complexities of chronic pain and its management, with a focus on the potential role of medical cannabis. Learners will examine the factors influencing pain perception, the mechanisms of pain signaling, and the different aetiologies and pathophysiologies of pain. The module addresses the interplay between physical and psychosocial factors in the pain experience and the impacts of chronic pain on individuals and the Australian healthcare system. It also covers common treatment interventions, the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis for chronic pain and co-occurring conditions, and considerations for its use. Healthcare practitioners will gain insights into addressing barriers to medical cannabis treatment to support improved patient outcomes. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Identify the factors that affect an individual's experience of pain Explain the pain signalling process Identify different pain aetiologies and pathophysiologies Explain the interplay between physical and psychosocial factors in the pain experience Define chronic pain and explain its impacts on individuals and the Australian healthcare and social support systems Describe common treatment interventions for chronic pain Describe medical cannabis' therapeutic potential for treating chronic pain and common co-occurring conditions Identify general considerations for medical cannabis treatment Explain common barriers to medical cannabis treatment and how to address them

At the time of publishing, there are currently two approved medical cannabis treatments on the ARTG: Nabiximols (Sativex) – Approved to improve symptoms related to spasticity in people with MS, reporting lack of efficacy from other anti-sacity treatments² Cannabidiol (Epidyolex) – Approved as an adjunct treatment severe and rare forms of epilepsy in children aged 2+4 Yet, for those who are seriously ill, medical cannabis may offer subjective relief for a wide range of symptoms such as; chronic pain, nausea and vomiting; sleep and appetite disturbances, depressed mood  & stress where other treatments have been unable to provide effective relief.³⁴ Registered medical practitioners may apply for access to unapproved therapeutic goods via the TGA through the following pathways:¹ Special access scheme (SAS) – provide access for an individual patient on a case-by-case basis Authorised prescriber scheme (AP) – provide access for multiple patients with the same condition In cases where approved medications are unsuitable or ineffective, Australian healthcare practitioners can access unapproved therapeutic goods, such as medical cannabis, through the Special Access Scheme A (SAS-A) or the Authorised Prescriber (AP) pathways. This module explores these pathways, outlines approved and unapproved medical cannabis treatments, and provides insight into their potential role in managing symptoms for seriously ill patients. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1.25 hours Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Clarify the purpose of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) Outline the categories of unregistered therapeutic goods Identify and explain the regulated access pathways for unapproved goods Summarise the purpose and eligibility criteria for each category of the Special Access Scheme (SAS), including SAS-A, SAS-B, and SAS-C Define the term seriously ill as it pertains to SAS-A Complete the online SAS form to notify the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the relevant state or territory authorities regarding the medical cannabis prescription Discuss prescribing practitioner considerations and obligations for providing medical cannabis treatment References ¹ Therapeutic Goods Administration. “Prescribe an Unapproved Therapeutic Good (Health Practitioners).” Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), 14 Dec. 2022, www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/prescribe-unapproved-therapeutic-good-health-practitioners. ² Therapeutic Goods Administration. Sativex Oromucosal Spray, Nabiximols 80 mg/mL Pump Actuated Metered Dose Aerosol (181978). Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Published May 26, 2022. Accessed October 2, 2024. https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/181978 ³ Herbert A, Hardy J. Medicinal Cannabis Use in Palliative Care. Australian Journal of General Practice. 2021;50(6):363-368. doi:https://doi.org/10.31128/ajgp-02-21-5831 ⁴ Therapeutic Goods Administration. Guidance for the Use of Medicinal Cannabis in the Treatment of Palliative Care Patients in Australia. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Published June 23, 2023. Accessed October 2, 2024. https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/resource/reference-material/guidance-use-medicinal-cannabis-treatment-palliative-care-patients-australia

This module provides healthcare practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of the biological components of medical cannabis and their therapeutic potential. As cannabis becomes more widely accepted, it's essential to grasp how its taxonomy, strains, chemovars, and key compounds interact within the body to provide treatment benefits. Through this module, practitioners will learn how to identify cannabis' taxonomic status, discuss the key components of strains, and explain how cannabinoids and terpenes affect the body. You'll also explore the factors that influence cannabis' effects and how practitioners can adjust treatment to account for clinical and individual patient factors, risks, and contraindications. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hour Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Identify cannabis' taxonomic status Identify and discuss key components of strains and chemovars Identify key compounds in medical cannabis and explain their potential interactions and effects within the body Describe the factors that impact medical cannabis' effects within the body Explain how practitioners may adjust medical cannabis treatment to account for clinical and individual factors, risks and contraindications

This module explores the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its critical role in the effects of medical cannabis. It examines the discoveries that shaped our understanding of the ECS, its primary components—such as CB1, CB2, and TRPV1 receptors—and the mechanisms of retrograde cell signaling, which underpins how cannabinoids influence physiological processes. Participants will learn about the role of ECS ligands and non-ligand mediators in cannabis pharmacology, the concept of endocannabinoid tone, and factors that can affect it. Clinical considerations are addressed to provide a deeper understanding of how the ECS informs the safe and effective use of medical cannabis in patient care. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hour Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Describe the discoveries that shaped today's understanding of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) Explain the functions of the ECS, its main components, and how they interact Discuss the function and benefits of retrograde cell signalling Outline the roles and functions of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, and vanilloid receptor TRPV1 Identify ECS ligands and non-ligand mediators and describe their role in ECS function Define endocannabinoid tone and its influencing factors Discuss clinical considerations related to the ECS

In the current landscape, medical cannabis products are tightly regulated with stringent dispensing requirements. Medical cannabis dispensers (MCDs), and the businesses they represent, are responsible for adhering to all relevant legislation and policy while also implementing best practice dispensing for robust patient-centred care. This fundamental module equips pharmacists with the knowledge and skills to effectively fulfil their essential role in dispensing medical cannabis.  Beyond the technical aspects, pharmacists serve as key advocates for patient care, ensuring the safety, privacy, and well-being of patients throughout their medical cannabis journey. In this module, learners will explore methods to build trust with patients, provide comprehensive education on cannabis products, and ensure compliance with record-keeping and reporting standards. This module also emphasises the critical role of collaboration with healthcare teams to ensure safer, more effective treatment outcomes. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hour Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Identify the legal and ethical responsibilities of medical cannabis dispensers (MCDs) Implement respectful communication practices to educate and build safety, trust and rapport with patients Counsel patients on safe use of medical cannabis products – including dosage, titration, administration, storage and identifying and responding to side effects Explain how to store, monitor and maintain medical cannabis products securely Discuss pharmacists' record-keeping obligations when dispensing medical cannabis Collaborate with other health practitioners for a multidisciplinary approach to medical cannabis treatment

It's an interesting time in Australia's medical cannabis landscape.Cannabis has a long global history, traversing prohibition and the ‘war on drugs’ to becoming a recognised therapeutic option for Australian patients.Discover cannabis throughout history, and its evolution in modern day healthcare. Empower yourself with the knowledge of the history of both social and medical history of medical cannabis in Australia and globally. Preview this module by watching the video above. Estimated Duration: 1 hour Access Duration: 12 months from date of purchase Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this module, you’ll be able to: Cannabis and its historical context: When, where and the discovery of the plants therapeutic properties occurred. The complex social attitudes affecting the plants status as a medicine throughout history. Where medical cannabis came from and where it is having the most impact now.