CBD vs THC — What's the Difference?

A plain-English introduction to two terms medicinal cannabis patients hear often.

3 min read

Medicinal cannabis patients hear the terms CBD and THC constantly, but the terms are often used loosely and rarely explained.

Both are components found in cannabis. Prescribed products contain different combinations of them, which is one reason two patients can be prescribed quite different medicines for quite different reasons.

CBD

CBD is commonly prescribed in New Zealand. Products containing CBD are prescribed for a range of therapeutic purposes, and some products contain CBD alone.

Whether a CBD product is appropriate for you is a decision for your prescribing healthcare professional, based on your circumstances.

THC

THC is another component found in some medicinal cannabis products. Products vary in how much THC they contain, and some contain none.

Different patients are prescribed different products depending on their healthcare professional's assessment. Your prescription reflects that assessment rather than a general rule.

Why understanding your product matters

Whatever you are prescribed, it helps to know the basics of your own treatment:

  • what product you're prescribed
  • what dose you're taking
  • when you take it

Keeping accurate records of these three things supports a clearer understanding of your own treatment, and makes it easier to answer questions from your healthcare professional accurately.

How DriveClear helps

DriveClear lets you record the product, the dose and the intake time for each intake, building an accurate treatment history on your device.

Key takeaways
  • CBD and THC are different components found in cannabis products.
  • Prescribed products contain different combinations, and some contain only CBD.
  • Your prescription reflects your healthcare professional's assessment of your circumstances.
  • Knowing your product, dose and timing supports better understanding of your treatment.
  • Questions about which product suits you belong with your prescriber.

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