the legalities of buying and using medical marijuana in Canada
As of October 17, 2018, recreational marijuana is now legal in Canada. This means that individuals in Canada can now purchase and use marijuana for non-medical purposes, such as for enjoyment or relaxation. However, marijuana is still only available for purchase through licensed retailers and online stores, and only for individuals over the age of 19 (or 18 in Quebec and Alberta). In this article, we will discuss the legalities of buying and using medical marijuana in Canada.
First, it is important to note that medical marijuana is only available for individuals who have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. This prescription must be provided to the licensed retailer or online store where you will be purchasing your medical marijuana. Without a valid prescription, it is illegal to purchase or use medical marijuana in Canada.
Once you have a valid prescription, you can purchase medical marijuana from a licensed retailer or online store. The Government of Canada maintains a list of licensed producers of marijuana for medical purposes, which can be found on the Health Canada website. It is important to only purchase medical marijuana from a licensed retailer or online store, as it is illegal to purchase marijuana from unlicensed sources.
When purchasing medical marijuana, you will need to provide your prescription and personal information, such as your name, address, and date of birth. It is important to keep your prescription and any receipts for your medical marijuana purchases, in case you need to provide proof of your legal status as a medical marijuana user.
Once you have purchased your medical marijuana, you can use it according to your healthcare provider’s instructions and the product’s instructions for use. However, there are some restrictions on where and how you can use marijuana in Canada. For example, individuals are not allowed to possess more than 30 grams of marijuana in public, and cannot consume marijuana in public places, such as on the street or in a vehicle.
It is also important to note that, while marijuana is now legal in Canada, it is still illegal to transport marijuana across the border into the United States or any other country. This includes both medical and recreational marijuana, and can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Overall, buying and using medical marijuana in Canada is a legal and relatively straightforward process, provided you have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider and are over the age of 19. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can safely and legally purchase and use medical marijuana in Canada.
Disclaimer: Views expressed here are those of the author and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare practitioner.