Only days after cannabis was decriminalized, leading doctors and health officials are warning it is only for medical reasons and that recreational is strictly forbidden, with many calling for harsher rules and regulations. Legalized cannabis is for medical purposes only, not recreational, Thailand’s Medical Services Department reiterates Monday, 13 June 2022, 20:19. Pattaya News

National –Thailand's Department of Medical Services has reiterated its position that legalized cannabis extracts must only be used for medicinal purposes only, not for recreational.

Department director-general Somsak Ankasil reminded the public today, June 13th, that the decriminalization of some THC cannabis parts is for medical purposes, not for recreational use, because the extracts can give both health benefits and risks and must be taken under the supervision and advice of medical personnel.

He also emphasized the use of medicinal cannabis extracts as an alternative in case the prescription drugs were not effective. The decision must primarily consider the health, safety, and benefits of a patient.

"The Ministry of Public Health has a policy for hospitals to open integrated medical cannabis clinics, both traditional and modern, and provide training courses for doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and medical personnel on the use of medicinal cannabis extracts to properly treat the patients," Somsak continued.

The medical personnel must closely monitor the treatment results and side effects of the use of cannabis extracts, such as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, epilepsy, muscle stiffness and spasms, neuropathic pain, etc.