Frequently asked questions

Q: What is full-spectrum cannabis oil?

A: A full-spectrum cannabis oil is a product made using a full-spectrum or ‘whole plant’ extract containing all of the compounds representing the full profile of the plant such as different cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

Q: Why do I need a prescription to purchase Full Spectrum?

A: As per Indian regulations, Full Spectrum and other medications containing cannabis are to be taken under medical supervision. The Cytogene Clinic helps patients access licensed physicians for a consultation and prescription for appropriate diagnosis and guidance on cannabis medicine dosage, which can vary from person to person. We wish to ensure a high standard of care and also prevent abuse of cannabinoid medicines, and thus require a physician mediated pathway for access to Full Spectrum.

Q: What is the ‘entourage effect’?

A: When the active components of cannabis are consumed together (cannabinoids, terpenes, terpenoids, flavonoids) they work synergistically providing a greater therapeutic effect than can be achieved from each component individually. This is referred to as the ‘entourage effect’.

Q: What is THC?

A: THC is a cannabinoid that has the potential to cause intoxicating effects and therapeutically has been noted to help manage symptoms such as: chronic pain; depression; insomnia / sleep disorders; muscle spasticity; nausea; and poor appetite.

Q: How do I know how much medication to take?

A: Please follow dosage instructions as directed by your prescribing physician. Starting dosage should be low and if needed, increased gradually until efficacy is achieved.

Q: Will the Cytogene cannabis oils get me high?

A: Patients can achieve symptom relief without having to experience the side effects of excessive euphoria or a ‘high’. THC when used in low to moderate doses will not result in euphoria in most patients.

Q: How do I prevent getting high?

A: Always remember to start low and go slow. Cannabis medications are to be used as directed by your prescribing physician. Begin with a low dosage and if needed, gradually increase until efficacy is achieved.

Q: Is this medicine legal in India?

A: Yes – The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act specifically prohibits the utilization of cannabis plant flower and resin, while creating an exemption for leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant. Since these parts of the plant also contain cannabinoids like Cannabis Extract and THC, the main psychoactive compounds known for their therapeutic benefits, this allows for the production of cannabis medicine products within an existing regulatory framework for medical cannabis. As cannabis is recognised as a potent plant ingredient in Ayurveda, cannabis medicine has earned ratification from India’s Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH). AYUSH regulations recognise whole plant medicinal extracts and also specify methods of extraction for manufacturing plant-based medicines.

Q: Are there any side effects from taking cannabis medicine?

A: Cannabis medicine does not exhibit the severe side effects of traditional narcotics, opioid analgesics, and neuromodulators. However, common side effects can include: dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, hypotension, nausea, initial tachycardia, paranoia.
Most common side effects are temporary in nature, and can be avoided by starting with a low dose and if needed, gradually increasing dosage. Please discontinue use and consult your physician if side effects persist.

Q: How long will it take to feel the effects of Cytogene medicine?

A: Patients typically begin to feel the onset of effects within 60-90 minutes. Potentially up to 2 hours.

Q: How long will the effects last?

A: The duration of effects is typically 6-10 hours following dosage. Peak effects are commonly experienced 2-3 hours following consumption.

Q: I have finished my bottle of Cytogene medicine. Can I order more medicine now, or do I have to get another prescription first?

A: Registered patients possessing a valid prescription may purchase more medicine. However, we advise patients to book a follow-up appointment with their physician prior to the completion of their medication in order to better evaluate the need for continued treatment , and avoid any potential gaps in treatment.
Click here to book an online doctor consultation now with the Cytogene Clinic

Q: Are Cytogene Cannabis medications vegan?

A: Yes – Cytogene Cannabis products are certified vegan.

Q: How should I store my Cytogene products?

A: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight.

Q: Can cannabis medicine cause brain damage?

A: Research has proven that cannabis consumption does not result in damage to the brain.

Q: Is cannabis medicine addictive?

A: Cannabis is not considered to be physically addictive like medications such as opiates. Research has shown that the addiction potential of cannabis is less than caffeine, nicotine, opiates and alcohol. However, frequent and sustained consumption of medical cannabis can potentially result in patients developing cannabis dependency. Particularly in younger patients and others who are prone to risk-taking behaviour.

Q: Can cannabis medicine cause a fatal overdose?

A: No – There are no recorded cases of a cannabis ‘overdose’ resulting in death.

Q: What should I do if I experience side effects?

A: Remain calm. The effects of cannabis medicine will gradually fade over time, usually between 2 and 4 hours.

Q: Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Cytogene Cannabis Medications?

A: Patients may potentially experience dizziness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. This can result in impaired judgement as well as difficulty in performing skilled tasks. Until you are aware of how you will be affected by Cytogene Cannabis Medications, you should avoid activities that depend on coordination, quick decision-making and remaining alert. People who frequently/routinely need to drive or operate heavy machinery should not use cannabis medicine as they are at a higher risk of having an accident.

Q: Can I leave the country with my medication to travel?

A: No – Patients are not permitted to transport their cannabis medicine products over international borders, even when travelling to locations where these products are permitted for use.

Q: How long will it take to receive my medication once I’ve placed my order?

A: As per our Shipping Policy – Orders are processed within 2 business days of order confirmation, and orders are delivered within a maximum of 10 business days to any location within the territory of India. Please note that orders are not shipped or delivered on weekends or public holidays.
Please review our full Shipping Policy for more details.

Q: How to I get a prescription for Cytogene Cannabis Medications?

A: Click here to book an online doctor consultation now with the Cytogene Clinic.

Q: What does a consultation with a physician cost on the Cytogene Clinic?

A: Consultation Fee – INR 300

Q: Can orders be shipped to locations outside of India?

A: No – Cytogene does not currently service international shipments or exchanges.