Cannabis Shortages May Affect Medical Cannabis for Some, Perhaps Not for Others
Reports Are that Companies Like Aurora Have Reassured Medical Cannabis Customers That Supply Will Continue
When Jane Brown tried CBD oil for the first time, she described the medical cannabis as “incredible.”
Brown (not her real name) was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis four years ago, leaving her in excruciating pain. She tried many pain relievers, but none worked well. Often she experienced horrible side effects including hives from an allergic reaction.
Three separate specialists recommended medical cannabis – and it was finally the treatment that worked for Brown.
“I was very scared it wouldn’t work. I was scared I would have a reaction,” she explained. “But I didn’t have any side effects. My pain dropped down to about a three or a four, which is completely dealable.”
However, when cannabis became legal for adult use on October 17, 2018, Brown suspected that there may be a shortage on the horizon. She was right – for many reasons, medical cannabis and recreational cannabis quickly became in short supply. The article linked below shows that changing labelling requirements may also have contributed to shortages.
Brown currently has about a month of medications left. She may have to find another licensed producer if the two she buys from cannot fill her orders.
Another patient, Tina Johnson (also not her real name), said that Aurora sent her an email assuring her that there will always be product available for medical cannabis users. Johnson said it’s reassuring to know. Even though she has only been on cannabis medication for a short time, it’s made a huge difference helping treat her depression.
“I liken it to one day you’re watching TV black and white, and the next day it’s colour,” she said.
It’s unknown how long shortages will last. Health Canada was reported in the linked article as expecting it will be months. The hope is that companies like Aurora have set aside product for their medical cannabis customers so that patients do not have to suffer during this time.
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