FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

CBD & THC Flowers

WHAT ARE CBD AND THC FLOWERS?

CBD and THC flowers are the dried buds of the Cannabis sativa L. plant, cultivated under strict EU GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards to ensure high pharmaceutical quality.

CBD Flowers: Contain low levels of THC, offering non-psychoactive effects and benefits such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and anxiety reduction.
THC Flowers: Contain higher THC levels, providing therapeutic and psychoactive effects suitable for treating chronic pain, nausea, muscle spasms, and stimulating appetite.

HOW ARE CBD AND THC FLOWERS USED?
Patients can consume these flowers through:

Inhalation (Vaporization): A rapid and efficient method allowing for precise dosage control.
Infusion: Flowers can be infused into oils or other products for oral consumption.
Patients should always follow their physician’s recommendations regarding dosage and method.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR GROWN FLOWERS?

Indoor-grown flowers: Cultivated in controlled environments for consistent quality, cannabinoid levels, and appearance.
Outdoor-grown flowers: Exposed to natural environmental factors, providing a broader range of cannabinoids and terpenes.
NOC Pharma offers both varieties to meet diverse patient preferences.

Extracts, Distillates, and Isolates

WHAT ARE CANNABIS EXTRACTS?
Cannabis extracts are concentrated forms of cannabinoids obtained using advanced extraction methods like CO2 extraction. They contain high concentrations of CBD, THC, or both, along with terpenes and other beneficial compounds, providing patients with versatile and precise dosage options (e.g., oils, tinctures, capsules).

HOW ARE CANNABIS EXTRACTS USED?

Sublingual (under the tongue): For rapid absorption and effects.
Oral (capsules or edibles): For slower, extended relief.
Topical application: For localized pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.

WHAT ARE CANNABIS DISTILLATES?
Distillates are purified cannabis extracts where cannabinoids, such as CBD or THC, are isolated through distillation, removing impurities for a highly potent and pure product.

Usage: They can be taken orally, vaporized, or incorporated into edibles.

WHAT ARE CANNABIS ISOLATES?
Isolates are the purest form of a single cannabinoid (CBD or THC), free from other compounds. They are ideal for targeted treatment without psychoactive effects.

Form: Available in crystalline or powdered form, they can be mixed with food or beverages.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EXTRACTS, DISTILLATES, AND ISOLATES?

Extracts: Provide full-spectrum benefits, combining cannabinoids and terpenes for enhanced effects.
Distillates: Offer high purity and concentration, making them suitable for precise dosing.
Isolates: Target specific therapeutic needs without the influence of other cannabinoids.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED WITH CANNABIS EXTRACTS, DISTILLATES, AND ISOLATES?

CBD Extracts: Effective for managing inflammation, seizures, anxiety, and chronic pain.
THC Extracts: Beneficial for nausea, appetite loss, and severe pain.
CBD Isolates: Suitable for anti-inflammatory and pain-relief treatments without psychoactive effects.
THC Distillates: Ideal for patients needing high-dose THC therapy, with medical supervision.

WHAT EXTRACTION METHODS ARE USED?
NOC Pharma uses CO2 and ethanol extraction methods to produce extracts, distillates, and isolates, ensuring purity and safety while retaining beneficial compounds. All products are tested rigorously to meet EU GMP standards.

Regulatory and Legal Information

WHICH DOCTORS ARE ALLOWED TO PRESCRIBE MEDICAL CANNABIS?
All physicians, except dentists and veterinarians, are authorized to prescribe cannabis-based medications. Doctors who have not yet prescribed narcotics can request prescription pads from the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).

DOES THE STATUTORY HEALTH INSURANCE PAY FOR CANNABIS MEDICATIONS?
Yes, patients with a serious illness may qualify for coverage if no generally accepted treatment is available or applicable. The decision is based on the physician’s assessment. The treatment must have a prospect of positive effects on the disease or symptom relief. Approval from the health insurance is required before beginning therapy, and participation in an anonymized study is mandatory for covered patients.

CAN THE VERIFICATION BY THE HEALTH INSURANCE FUND AND THE MEDICAL SERVICE BE WAIVED?
Verification is conducted for each application by the statutory health insurance, often involving the Medical Service. If obtained through a private prescription, this verification is not applicable. Private health insurance holders may apply for reimbursement, which is determined at the insurer’s discretion.

WHAT ACTION CAN BE TAKEN IF AN APPLICATION FOR COST COVERAGE IS DENIED?
About two-thirds of applications for coverage are approved by statutory health insurers. If denied, an appeal can be filed within four weeks. Templates and guidance for appeals can be found online at: www.widerspruch.org.

CAN MEDICAL CANNABIS BE INHALED IN PUBLIC?
Yes, it is permitted. However, to avoid misunderstandings, it is recommended to carry a copy of the prescription and a “cannabis ID card,” available from your doctor or the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Cannabis als Medizin (ACM). NOC Pharma also provides these cards directly to physicians and pharmacists.

ARE CANNABIS PATIENTS ALLOWED TO DRIVE VEHICLES AND OPERATE MACHINERY?
During the initial adjustment period, patients must avoid driving and operating heavy machinery. This period may last one week or longer, depending on individual response. Patients must follow physician guidance on dosage and administration.

WHAT SHOULD CANNABIS PATIENTS KEEP IN MIND WHEN TRAVELING ABROAD?
To travel within the Schengen area, a “Schengen certificate” from the prescribing doctor is required. For travel outside the Schengen area, patients should check entry conditions with the destination country's embassy or consulate. More information can be found on the BfArM website: www.bfarm.de.

Cannabis Telemedicine FAQ for Patients

HOW DOES NOC PHARMA’S TELEMEDICINE SERVICE WORK FOR CANNABIS PRESCRIPTIONS?

NOC Pharma offers a secure telemedicine platform where patients can consult with licensed physicians online. The platform is designed to provide convenient and private access to medical cannabis consultations without the need for an in-person visit. Physicians evaluate your medical condition, provide recommendations, and, if appropriate, issue a prescription for medical cannabis.

WHO CAN USE NOC PHARMA’S TELEMEDICINE SERVICE?

Our telemedicine service is available to all patients residing in Germany who meet the eligibility criteria for medical cannabis. Patients must be 18 years or older and have a medical condition that qualifies for cannabis treatment under German law.

WHAT CONDITIONS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICAL CANNABIS PRESCRIPTIONS VIA TELEMEDICINE?

Conditions that may qualify for medical cannabis treatment include, but are not limited to:

Chronic pain
Multiple sclerosis
Nausea from chemotherapy
Anxiety and PTSD
Spasticity and muscle spasms
A licensed physician will determine eligibility based on your medical history and current condition.

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A TELEMEDICINE APPOINTMENT?

Patients can schedule a telemedicine appointment through the NOC Pharma website. You will be prompted to create an account and provide relevant medical information. Choose a time slot that suits your availability, and you will receive a confirmation email with the details for your online consultation.

WHAT INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO PROVIDE BEFORE THE CONSULTATION?

To complete your telemedicine appointment, you will need to provide:

A valid photo ID for identity verification
Medical records or previous prescriptions related to your condition
Any other relevant medical documentation that supports your need for medical cannabis
This information helps our physicians make an informed decision about your treatment plan.

IS MY PERSONAL AND MEDICAL INFORMATION SECURE?

Yes, NOC Pharma adheres to GDPR standards and German data protection regulations. Our telemedicine platform uses encrypted communication to ensure the confidentiality of your medical records and personal information. We prioritize patient privacy and safeguard all data transmitted during consultations.

CAN I OBTAIN A MEDICAL CANNABIS PRESCRIPTION THROUGH TELEMEDICINE?

Yes, if the physician determines that medical cannabis is suitable for your condition, they will issue an electronic prescription that is valid at NOC Pharma or its partner pharmacies. The prescription will be securely stored in your account, and you will be able to use it to place an order for your medical cannabis.

HOW CAN I ORDER MEDICAL CANNABIS AFTER RECEIVING MY PRESCRIPTION?

Once your prescription is issued, you can order medical cannabis directly through the NOC Pharma platform or visit one of our partner pharmacies. The order will be processed securely, and the product will be delivered to your address in compliance with German laws.

WILL MY HEALTH INSURANCE COVER MEDICAL CANNABIS PRESCRIPTIONS OBTAINED VIA TELEMEDICINE?

If you have statutory health insurance, initial approval for reimbursement is required before starting cannabis therapy. The physician will provide necessary documentation to support your application. Private health insurance holders may also apply for coverage, but reimbursement policies vary by insurer.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY HEALTH INSURANCE DENIES COVERAGE FOR MY MEDICAL CANNABIS?

If your health insurance denies coverage, you have the right to appeal. You can request assistance from the physician who conducted your telemedicine consultation, and they may provide additional documentation to support your case. There are also online resources that offer guidance on filing appeals.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH MY MEDICAL CANNABIS PRESCRIPTION?

Yes, but you must follow legal procedures:

For travel within the Schengen area, you need a “Schengen certificate” issued by your doctor.
For travel outside the Schengen area, consult the embassy or consulate of your destination country for specific requirements.
Always carry your prescription and necessary documents while traveling.

IS TELEMEDICINE LEGAL FOR CANNABIS PRESCRIPTIONS IN GERMANY?

Yes, telemedicine services for medical cannabis are legal in Germany, provided they comply with medical and pharmaceutical regulations. NOC Pharma works exclusively with licensed physicians who follow German telemedicine laws to ensure that all consultations and prescriptions are legitimate and compliant.

CAN I CONSULT WITH A PHYSICIAN OUTSIDE GERMANY THROUGH NOC PHARMA’S PLATFORM?

No, NOC Pharma’s telemedicine platform is currently available only for patients residing in Germany, and consultations are conducted by physicians licensed in Germany to ensure compliance with local regulations.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I EXPERIENCE SIDE EFFECTS FROM MEDICAL CANNABIS PRESCRIBED VIA TELEMEDICINE?

If you experience any side effects, contact the physician who provided your consultation through the NOC Pharma platform. They can adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments. In case of severe reactions, seek emergency medical attention immediately.