Different Types of Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand
Education
Nov 9
Medicinal cannabis is available in several forms, each designed to be used in a specific way depending on a person’s needs and a doctor’s advice. In New Zealand, these products are tightly regulated and can only be prescribed by an authorised health professional.
Interest in medicinal cannabis has grown in recent years as more people seek to understand how it works, what types exist, and how they are accessed under New Zealand’s Medicinal Cannabis Scheme. Knowing the different forms can help patients have more informed conversations with their doctors and better understand what to expect from prescribed products.
Medicinal cannabis refers to products made from compounds found in the cannabis plant that are regulated for medical use. These products are prescribed by a doctor and supplied through licensed pharmacies under the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme, which is overseen by the New Zealand Ministry of Health.
The goal of the scheme is to make sure that all products meet strict quality and safety standards. Only approved manufacturers can supply these items, and only registered prescribers can issue
There isn’t a single way to use medicinal cannabis because every person’s body, lifestyle and medical situation are different. Some people may need a product that works quickly while others benefit more from a slow and steady effect throughout the day. Doctors take these factors into account when deciding which form to prescribe.
For example, capsules and oils are absorbed through digestion which means the effects appear gradually and last longer. In contrast, sprays or vaporised products are absorbed more quickly through the mouth or lungs, offering faster onset but a shorter duration. Topical creams work locally on the skin rather than throughout the whole body.
Having several options allows doctors to adjust treatment for comfort, convenience and safety. It also means that patients can use a method that fits more naturally into their daily routine. Whether it’s a capsule taken in the morning, an oil used at night or a spray for quick relief, the goal is to make the treatment easier to manage while following the doctor’s guidance.
Medicinal cannabis oils are one of the most common forms prescribed in New Zealand. They come in small bottles with a dropper or syringe that allows careful measurement of each dose. Oils can be taken under the tongue or swallowed, depending on the doctor’s instructions.
When placed under the tongue, the oil is absorbed through the lining of the mouth and may act a little faster than swallowing. If swallowed, the oil passes through digestion before taking effect, so it can take longer to feel the impact but may last longer once it does.
Some people find oils convenient because they can be used quietly and stored easily at home. The consistent dosing also helps doctors monitor progress more accurately.
Things to know:
Capsules and tablets contain a measured amount of medicinal cannabis extract. They are taken like regular medicine and absorbed through the digestive system. Because of this, the effects usually take longer to appear, often between 30 minutes and two hours, but they also last longer once absorbed.
Capsules are a good option for people who prefer a consistent, easy-to-measure dose without the taste of oils. However, because the dose is fixed, any adjustments need to be made by changing the number or strength of capsules under medical supervision.
Things to know:
Some medicinal cannabis products are available as oral sprays. These are sprayed inside the mouth, often under the tongue or along the inner cheek. The active compounds are absorbed through the lining of the mouth, leading to faster onset than swallowed forms.
Sprays are discreet and portable, which can make them easier to use for some patients. Each spray delivers a controlled amount of the product, allowing doctors to set specific dose instructions.
Things to know:
Topical medicinal cannabis products include creams, balms and transdermal patches. These are applied directly to the skin, where the active ingredients are absorbed through the surface layers. They are typically used for localised effects rather than full-body impact.
Creams and balms are rubbed into the skin over the target area, while transdermal patches deliver a slow, steady release over time. Topical forms are generally well tolerated and do not involve inhalation or swallowing.
Things to know:
Inhaled medicinal cannabis allows the active compounds to reach the bloodstream quickly through the lungs. This method is performed using a medical-grade vaporiser that gently heats dried cannabis flower or extract to create vapour, not smoke.
Because the vapour is inhaled rather than burned, the process avoids combustion by-products. It can deliver quicker effects but requires the use of approved devices and products prescribed by a doctor.
Things to know:
For more background, see Mayo Clinic’s article on medical marijuana.
Extracts and concentrates are more refined forms of medicinal cannabis made by removing excess plant material and increasing the strength of active ingredients. They can appear as thick oils, pastes or crystalline forms and are designed for specific use under close medical supervision.
These products are typically prescribed when precise dosing or higher concentrations are needed. Because they are potent, they are not usually recommended for first-time patients.
Things to know:
Your doctor will consider several factors when deciding what type of medicinal cannabis to prescribe, including:
Doctors may start with a lower dose or gentler form to see how well it is tolerated before adjusting the plan.
The Medicinal Cannabis Scheme governs how products are produced, imported, prescribed, and supplied in New Zealand. It was introduced under the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Regulations 2019, which ensures that only approved, tested, and verified products can be prescribed.
Medicinal cannabis is legal only when prescribed by a registered doctor and dispensed through an approved pharmacy. It cannot be bought online from overseas or sourced without a prescription.
You can view the official regulations on legislation.govt.nz.
Medicinal cannabis is not currently funded by Pharmac, so most people pay privately. Prices vary depending on the brand, form, and dosage. In some cases, products may be imported if an approved local version is not available.
Your doctor or pharmacist can explain the likely costs and how to order your prescribed product. Some pharmacies may need extra time to arrange supply for imported items.
If you would like to explore your treatment options, here are a few helpful steps:
The most important thing is to work closely with your doctor to ensure safety and compliance with the law.
This content is for general information only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or a recommendation for treatment. Always speak with a qualified health professional for advice tailored to your circumstances. Regulations and costs may change. Please confirm current details with the Ministry of Health or Medsafe.
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