CBD vs THC: When and Why They’re Used Together

Understanding the different roles of cannabis’ most talked-about compounds

In Australia’s growing medical cannabis space, two cannabinoids are at the heart of nearly every conversation: CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

You’ve probably heard a lot about both — CBD as the calming, non-intoxicating one, and THC as the compound that “gets you high.” But the truth is: when used together, they may offer greater therapeutic benefits than when used alone.

This post breaks down what each does, how they work in the body, and why many doctors choose to prescribe products that combine them — even if in small, carefully balanced amounts.

CBD vs THC: Quick Overview

Cannabinoid	Effects	Intoxicating?	Common Uses	Legal Status in Australia
CBD	Calming, anti-inflammatory, balancing	❌ No	Anxiety, sleep, pain, epilepsy	Prescription-only (S4)
THC	Psychoactive, pain-relieving, appetite stimulating	✅ Yes	Chronic pain, nausea, sleep, muscle spasticity	Prescription-only (S8)

Why Are They Often Used Together?

This comes down to the “Entourage Effect” — the theory that cannabinoids work best in combination, not isolation. While both CBD and THC can be effective on their own, research and clinical experience suggest that certain conditions respond better to a full or balanced spectrum of compounds.

In other words: sometimes the sum is greater than the parts.

CBD and THC may support or moderate each other in helpful ways:

• CBD may reduce the intensity of THC’s high or anxiety-like side effects
• THC may enhance the pain relief or sleep-supporting effects of CBD
• Together, they may interact with more receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system for broader support

When a Doctor Might Recommend Both

Every prescription is tailored to the individual — but here are some general examples of when CBD/THC combinations are considered:

Chronic Pain

THC has strong pain-relieving properties, especially for nerve-related or inflammatory pain. Adding CBD may enhance relief while keeping the dose of THC lower and more manageable.

Sleep Disorders

While CBD can support sleep indirectly (especially by reducing anxiety), THC is often more sedating. A combined formula — often with higher THC at night — may help restore more natural sleep patterns.

Anxiety and PTSD

For some people, THC can worsen anxiety — but for others, in small doses, it helps calm intrusive thoughts. In these cases, CBD helps buffer and balance the experience. This combination must be carefully trialled with medical support.

Palliative or Cancer Support

Patients managing appetite loss, nausea, or pain often benefit from THC’s strong symptomatic relief, while CBD can help with mood, inflammation, and reducing unwanted psychoactivity.

It’s All About Ratios

Many medical cannabis products are formulated with specific CBD:THC ratios to match different therapeutic needs:

Ratio	Common Use Case	Intoxicating?
20:1 (CBD dominant)	Anxiety, inflammation, general wellbeing	❌ No
1:1 (Balanced)	Chronic pain, sleep, neuro support	⚠️ Mild to moderate (dose-dependent)
1:5 (THC dominant)	Palliative care, nausea, strong pain relief	✅ Likely

Your doctor will recommend a ratio and dose based on your health goals, tolerance, lifestyle, and any past cannabis experience.

Is It Safe to Use THC?

When prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional, yes — THC can be used safely. Many Australian patients use low or moderate amounts of THC as part of a daily or evening routine without experiencing impairment.

However, it's worth noting:

• Driving is illegal if THC is in your system (regardless of prescription)
• THC can affect memory, reaction time, and coordination — so timing and dosing matter
• Start low and go slow, especially if you’re new to THC or haven’t used cannabis in years

Still Stigma Around THC?

Absolutely — and understandably. For decades, THC was demonised as purely recreational or dangerous. But the reality is, in medical settings, THC is a legitimate therapeutic tool — and often essential for patients experiencing complex symptoms.

The key is education, guidance, and respect for individual needs.

Key Takeaways

• CBD and THC offer different benefits, but may work best when combined
• Many prescription formulas in Australia contain both cannabinoids in carefully balanced ratios
• CBD may reduce THC’s unwanted effects, while THC may enhance CBD’s impact on pain, sleep, and mood
• Everyone reacts differently — finding the right balance is part of the process
• Medical cannabis is never one-size-fits-all

Want to understand more about ratios, dosing, or product types?

We’re happy to walk you through what’s legally available, how to have informed discussions with your doctor, and what to ask when exploring cannabinoid therapy.