The Study of Practice Pattern and Quality of Life in the Use of Golden Turmeric Cannabis Oil Formula among Patients at Thai Traditional Medical Cannabis Clinics in Healthcare Facilities in Public Health Region 8

Abstract

Golden Turmeric Cannabis Oil (GTCO) recipe is a medicinal cannabis-based formula certified by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, for use in medical treatment or research. This quasi-experimental research aimed to explore the drug prescribing characteristics, quality of life and adverse reactions of GTCO users, among outpatients who received treatment at Thai traditional medicine clinics in 32 hospitals in Public Health Region 8 during November 2021–October 2022, and were followed up in the 1st and 3rd months of treatment. Data were collected using the R8-COT program. The results of data analysis showed that among 224 patients who were prescribed GTCO, 56.25% were women with a mean age of 53 ± 13.35 years. The formula was prescribed for migraine (46.88%), pain (29.02%), insomnia (16.96%) and other symptoms, including psoriasis, cancer, Parkinson’s and allergies (7.14%). The recommended starting dosage ranged from 2–3 drops per day, but mostly the patients received 2 drops once a day at bedtime; and most of them did not receive dose adjustments (92.86%). The second and third doses were adjusted to 3 drops/day (73.21% and 81.70%, respectively). The quality of life values after 3 months of treatment, based on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) and data collected from the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, showed that the mean utility value increased significantly (p-value < 0.001), compared to before treatment. In conclusion, Golden Turmeric Cannabis Oil improves the quality of life of patients. And it is safe even if there are adverse reactions, but they are not serious. Therefore, it can be considered as an alternative treatment for patients.