Understanding Your Monthly Limits and Interval Periods
At Herbly, we aim to make your medical cannabis treatment journey smooth, predictable, and compliant with Australian regulations. Two key concepts that often cause confusion are monthly limits and interval periods. Knowing how these work will help you plan your treatment and avoid delays in your prescription refills.
What Are Monthly Limits?
Under Australian prescribing regulations, your doctor may set a maximum amount of medical cannabis you can receive in a 30-day period. This ensures safe usage and helps manage supply fairly for all patients.
How Monthly Limits Work
- Defined by your prescription: Your doctor will specify the maximum quantity you can be dispensed in 30 days.
- Applies to your chosen pharmacy: The limit is monitored by the dispensing pharmacy, so they cannot give you more than your monthly allowance.
- Resets every month: Your monthly limit resets, on the 1st allowing you to refill again.
If your monthly limit is 20g and you’ve already collected 10g, you can only collect another 10g until the 1st of next month.
What Is an Interval Period?
Even if you have not used your monthly limit, you may still be required to wait a certain number of days before you can receive your next refill. This waiting time is called the interval period.
How Interval Periods Work
- Set by your doctor: It may be based on your prescription frequency or regulatory guidelines.
- Measured in days: If your prescription specifies a 28-day interval, you must wait 28 days from your last dispense before you can order more.
- Ensures safe and consistent use: Prevents stockpiling and helps track your treatment pattern.
If your last collection was on the 1st of the month and your prescription has a 28-day interval, you’ll next be eligible for dispensing on the 29th of the month.
Monthly Limit vs Interval Period - Key Differences
| Feature | Monthly Limit | Interval Period |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Restricts total quantity in 30 days | Sets a minimum wait time between refills |
| Controlled By | Doctor & pharmacy | Doctor & pharmacy |
| Main Goal | Regulate quantity | Regulate timing |
Tips for Patients
- Track your dispense dates: Mark your calendar to know when you’re eligible for a refill.
- Plan ahead: If you’re travelling or need extra supply, discuss with your doctor in advance.
- Contact us if unsure: Our team at Herbly can help clarify your next eligible refill date and remaining monthly allowance.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your monthly limit and interval period helps you stay compliant, avoid unnecessary delays, and manage your treatment effectively. At Herbly, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way so you can focus on your health, not the paperwork.
