1. Cannabis Flower (Dried Buds)

Description

Cannabis flower consists of dried and cured buds from the cannabis plant. It contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD in their natural form.

Administration

• Vaporization: Heated in a dry herb vaporizer, allowing patients to inhale the cannabinoids without combustion.

Onset & Duration

• Fast onset: 1–5 minutes
• Duration: 1–4 hours

Pros

• Rapid symptom relief (useful for pain, nausea, and muscle spasms)
• Easy to dose based on symptom response

Cons

• Precise dosing is difficult
• Flower requires grinding and can be challenging for those with certain conditions

2. Cannabis Oils and Tinctures

Description

Cannabis oils and tinctures contain cannabis extracts mixed with a carrier oil (like MCT oil) or alcohol. They allow for more precise dosing than flower.

Administration

• Sublingual (under the tongue): Drops are placed under the tongue and absorbed through mucous membranes.
• Swallowed: Can be added to food or drinks, but effects take longer.

Onset & Duration

• Sublingual onset: 15–45 minutes
• Swallowed onset: 1–2 hours
• Duration: 4–8 hours

Pros

• Discreet and easy to use
• Allows precise dosing
• Longer-lasting effects

Cons

• Slower onset compared to vaporization
• Effects may be unpredictable when swallowed

3. Capsules and Tablets

Description

Capsules and tablets contain cannabis oil or powder in pre-measured doses. They provide consistent, controlled dosing.

Administration

• Swallowed with water, similar to regular medication.

Onset & Duration

• Onset: 1–2 hours
• Duration: 6–12 hours

Pros

• Exact dosing for consistent effects
• Long-lasting relief
• No taste or odor

Cons

• Slow onset, not suitable for immediate symptom relief
• Less flexibility in adjusting doses compared to oils

4. Edibles (Cannabis-Infused Food and Drinks)

Description

Edibles include cannabis-infused products such as chocolates, gummies, and beverages. They contain measured doses of cannabinoids.

Administration

• Consumed like regular food, with cannabinoids absorbed through digestion.

Onset & Duration

• Onset: 1–3 hours
• Duration: 6–12 hours

Pros

• Discreet and convenient
• Long-lasting effects

Cons

• Slow and unpredictable onset
• Dosing errors can occur due to delayed effects

5. Topicals (Creams, Lotions, and Balms)

Description

Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, lotions, and balms designed for localized relief rather than systemic effects.

Administration

• Applied directly to the skin over the affected area.

Onset & Duration

• Onset: 10–30 minutes
• Duration: 2–6 hours

Pros

• Targets specific areas (e.g., arthritis, muscle pain)
• No psychoactive effects (doesn’t enter the bloodstream)

Cons

• Limited to localized relief
• Less effective for deep-seated pain 

6. Transdermal Patches

Description

Transdermal patches deliver cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream through the skin over a long period.

Administration

• Applied to the skin for continuous absorption.

Onset & Duration

• Onset: 30 minutes–1 hour
• Duration: 12–24 hours

Pros

• Consistent, long-lasting effects
• No need for frequent dosing

Cons

• Limited availability
• May cause skin irritation in some users

7. Cannabis Inhalers (Oil Vape & Metered-Dose Devices)

Description

Similar to asthma inhalers, cannabis inhalers deliver controlled doses of cannabinoids directly to the lungs.

Administration

• Inhaled through a device.

Onset & Duration

• Onset: 1–5 minutes
• Duration: 2–4 hours

Pros

• Precise dosing and no messy handling of flower
• Rapid onset without the risks of smoking

Cons

• Limited product availability
• Higher cost than other methods

 
Conclusion

The best medical cannabis product format depends on the patient’s condition, preference, and need for immediate or long-lasting relief. Vaporization and inhalers offer quick relief, while oils, capsules, and edibles provide longer-lasting effects. Topicals are useful for localized pain, while transdermal patches offer steady cannabinoid absorption. Understanding these differences helps patients and healthcare providers choose the most effective option for treatment.