Q: What conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, fibromyalgia, stress and anxiety, depression, headaches and migraines, neck and back pain, arthritis, and cancer-related pain. Our team assesses each patient individually and creates a tailored treatment plan based on the latest clinical evidence, often combining multiple therapies for the best outcome.

Q: Is ketamine therapy safe?

When administered in a clinical setting under medical supervision, ketamine therapy has a favourable safety profile. A pilot study of KAP for chronic pain and depression reported no drug-related serious adverse events. At The Pain Clinic, your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored throughout the infusion, and a qualified anaesthetist is present at all times. The typical protocol involves 2–3 infusions over 2–3 weeks.

Q: Where are your clinics located?

We have clinics in Paola, Gzira, Naxxar (at Balance Wellness), and San Pawl il-Bahar. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is available exclusively at our Naxxar location. You can book appointments at whichever location is most convenient for you.

Q: Does health insurance cover your services?

Coverage depends on your insurance provider and plan. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm what is covered. We can provide invoices and documentation to support any claims you need to submit. Medical cannabis is generally not covered by most insurance policies in Malta at this time, though this may change as the regulatory framework evolves.

Question 1

How do I apply for medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

To apply for medical cannabis kindly check if you are eligible by completing this online questionnaire.

Question 2

What is The Pain Clinic and what approach do you take?

Accepted Answer

The Pain Clinic is a specialist clinic in Malta dedicated to the management of chronic pain and related conditions. We use a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach that combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies — including physiotherapy, psychotherapy, medical cannabis, and mind-body practices — to create a personalised plan for each patient. NICE guidelines (NG193, 2021) recommend this type of integrated approach as the most effective strategy for chronic pain.

Question 3

What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?

Accepted Answer

KAP combines a low dose of ketamine — approximately one-quarter of the anaesthetic dose — with structured psychotherapy to treat chronic pain and treatment-resistant depression. At our clinic, the protocol includes an initial biopsychosocial assessment, psychiatric evaluation, preparatory psychotherapy, the IV ketamine infusion itself (administered by an anaesthetist), and integration sessions afterwards. A 2025 systematic review found significant reductions in depressive symptoms with this approach.

Question 4

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book online through our booking page at painclinic.com.mt/book, call us on +356 2166 6903 or +356 7966 6904, or email info@painclinic.com.mt. We are open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm. You can also request a complimentary introductory call to discuss your symptoms before committing to a full consultation.

Question 5

What are your membership tiers?

Accepted Answer

We offer three annual membership tiers: Wellness (€70/year) includes a yearly check-up with bloods, an annual consultation, and access to online education — ideal for wellness enthusiasts. Medical (€90/year) is designed for registered patients and includes 6-monthly follow-ups, document renewals, and ongoing patient support. Premium (€140/year) combines all benefits with priority support and 6-monthly check-ups with bloods.

Question 6

Do I need a prescription for CBD?

Accepted Answer

All cannabinoid products containing CBD, CBG and CBN with <0.2% THC are available over-the-counter without a prescription from many outlets around Malta and Gozo.

Question 7

What conditions do you treat?

Accepted Answer

We treat a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, fibromyalgia, stress and anxiety, depression, headaches and migraines, neck and back pain, arthritis, and cancer-related pain. Our team assesses each patient individually and creates a tailored treatment plan based on the latest clinical evidence, often combining multiple therapies for the best outcome.

Question 8

Is ketamine therapy safe?

Accepted Answer

When administered in a clinical setting under medical supervision, ketamine therapy has a favourable safety profile. A pilot study of KAP for chronic pain and depression reported no drug-related serious adverse events. At The Pain Clinic, your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored throughout the infusion, and a qualified anaesthetist is present at all times. The typical protocol involves 2–3 infusions over 2–3 weeks.

Question 9

Where are your clinics located?

Accepted Answer

We have clinics in Paola, Gzira, Naxxar (at Balance Wellness), and San Pawl il-Bahar. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is available exclusively at our Naxxar location. You can book appointments at whichever location is most convenient for you.

Question 10

Does health insurance cover your services?

Accepted Answer

Coverage depends on your insurance provider and plan. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm what is covered. We can provide invoices and documentation to support any claims you need to submit. Medical cannabis is generally not covered by most insurance policies in Malta at this time, though this may change as the regulatory framework evolves.

Question 11

Do I need a permit to travel with CBD oil within Europe?

Accepted Answer

No, a permit to travel is only required for THC.

Question 12

Do I need a referral from my GP to visit The Pain Clinic?

Accepted Answer

For general consultations and complementary therapies, you do not need a GP referral — you can book directly. For medical cannabis prescriptions, the process starts with a consultation at our clinic where our doctors assess your eligibility. If you are being referred by another specialist, they can use our professional referral pathway at painclinic.com.mt/for-professionals.

Question 13

What should I expect during a ketamine session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions typically last about one hour. You relax in a private treatment room while the ketamine is administered intravenously under medical supervision. You may experience a dreamlike, floating sensation — feeling detached from your surroundings with altered perception of time. Most patients find the experience relaxing or meditative. Afterwards, you may feel groggy for a couple of hours and will need someone to drive you home.

Question 14

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your Malta ID card, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and any relevant medical reports or test results from other doctors. For medical cannabis consultations, the initial assessment takes approximately one hour, during which your full medical history will be reviewed. If you have completed our online eligibility questionnaire beforehand, this helps speed up the process.

Question 15

Can I use my membership at all clinic locations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your Pain Clinic membership is valid across all our locations in Paola, Gzira, Naxxar, and San Pawl il-Bahar. You can book appointments at whichever clinic is most convenient for you and receive the same member benefits at any location.

Question 16

How do I renew my Control Card?

Accepted Answer

To renew your control card, kindly apply through our online portal or by calling 21666903.

Question 17

Is exercise safe if I have chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A Cochrane overview of 21 systematic reviews found that physical activity and exercise improve pain severity and physical function, with very few adverse events. Some muscle soreness may occur when starting a new programme but subsides as the body adapts. Our physiotherapists and exercise therapists design gentle, graded programmes tailored to your condition and fitness level.

Question 18

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

Accepted Answer

HBOT involves breathing 100% pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which increases the oxygen your blood can carry and triggers powerful healing responses. Sessions last 60–90 minutes and are available at our Balance Wellness branch in Naxxar. HBOT can help with fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, post-surgical recovery, chronic fatigue, and Long COVID symptoms. Pricing starts at €55 per session, with discounts for packages and clinic members.

Question 19

How long does it take to get a medical cannabis permit after my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

After your initial consultation, the doctor submits an application to the Superintendent of Public Health. The first permit typically takes 10–15 working days to be issued. Once approved, a member of our team will email the permit to you and call to confirm receipt and explain how to request your first prescription. The first permit is valid for 30 days, after which subsequent permits cover 6-month periods.

Question 20

Are there discounts for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Single sessions are €55, a 10-session package is €500 (€50 per session), and a 20-session package is €850 (€42.50 per session). Pain Clinic members receive additional discounts on HBOT pricing. Most conditions require 10–20 sessions for optimal results, so packages offer significant savings.

Question 21

How often do I need to renew my permit?

Accepted Answer

You are required to visit the doctor for a follow-up and to renew your permit every 6 months.

Question 22

Why does a multidisciplinary approach work better for chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

Research consistently shows that combining physical therapy, psychological support, and medical management is more effective than any single treatment alone. Chronic pain affects the whole person — sleep, mood, mobility, and daily life — so effective treatment needs to address all these dimensions. NICE guidelines recommend exercise, psychological therapies, and complementary treatments as first-line approaches for chronic pain.

Question 23

How does physiotherapy help with chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy uses tailored exercise programmes, manual therapy, and pain education to improve function and reduce pain. Research shows that physiotherapy has a positive impact across pain, quality of life, physical function, and depression. At our clinic, physiotherapy is often combined with other treatments — such as psychotherapy or medical cannabis — as part of a comprehensive, personalised management plan.

Question 24

How do I order my prescriptions?

Accepted Answer

You can request a prescription through our online portal or by calling 21666903. Always make sure all your documents are in date, that you order within your monthly allowance and that your pharmacy has the medicine in stock. Kindly note that your control card needs to be signed by the doctor before you can pick up your medicine.

Question 25

Does psychotherapy really help with pain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has strong evidence for chronic pain, with a Cochrane review confirming benefits for pain, disability, and emotional distress. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) also shows positive results, particularly for improving daily functioning, anxiety, and depression. NICE recommends both CBT and ACT as treatments for chronic primary pain. Pain is not "all in your head" — psychotherapy helps change how the brain processes pain signals.

Question 26

Can I travel with Medical Cannabis?

Accepted Answer

You may order a travel document to either a Schengen country or the UK through our online portal or by calling 21666903. If it is a country in the Schengen Zone, you also are required to take the travel document to St. Luke’s to get it stamped. Travelling with cannabis is always at your own risk.

Question 27

What complementary therapies do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of evidence-informed complementary therapies including yoga therapy, meditation, the Wim Hof Method (breathing and cold exposure), aromatherapy, acupressure, nutritional therapy, and exercise therapy. The American College of Physicians recommends yoga as an initial treatment for chronic low back pain, and research from Radboud University found that the Wim Hof Method reduced pain perception with effects lasting at least four hours.

Question 28

What documents do I need at the pharmacy to access medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

The pharmacist requires you to present your green prescription, control card signed by the doctor, six-month permit and ID card in order to dispense your medical cannabis. Kindly note that all these documents need to be valid (not expired).

Question 29

Can medical cannabis help with fibromyalgia?

Accepted Answer

There is growing evidence that cannabinoids may help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Research shows that CBD has significant potential for conditions like fibromyalgia due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Many patients report improvements in pain, sleep, and mood. Fibromyalgia is also associated with endocannabinoid deficiency, which means the body's own cannabinoid system is not functioning optimally — medical cannabis can help restore this balance.

Question 30

How long after my appointment do I need to wait for my permit?

Accepted Answer

Your permit will take an average of 10 to 15 working days before we receive it back from the Superintendent of Public health, then a member of our team emails it to you followed by a phone call to confirm you received it and also explain how to request a prescription.

Question 31

Can diet and nutrition help manage chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

Emerging evidence suggests that anti-inflammatory dietary patterns — such as a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and omega-3 fatty acids — may help reduce pain by lowering systemic inflammation. The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) recognises nutrition as a modifiable factor in pain management. Our nutritional therapists can help you develop an eating plan that supports your treatment.

Question 32

Is medical cannabis legal in Malta?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Malta enacted the Production of Cannabis for Medicinal and Research Purposes Act in 2018, making it legal to prescribe cannabis-based medicines for qualifying conditions. The Malta Medicines Authority regulates the process, and prescriptions require approval from the Superintendent of Public Health. Malta was one of the first EU countries to establish a comprehensive legal framework for medical cannabis.

Question 33

What is the endocannabinoid system and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors found in almost every organ in your body. It regulates pain, mood, sleep, appetite, and immune function. When the ECS is not functioning properly — known as endocannabinoid deficiency — it can contribute to conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome. Medical cannabis works by interacting with these receptors to help restore balance.

Question 34

What conditions qualify for medical cannabis in Malta?

Accepted Answer

The primary qualifying conditions include chronic pain, muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis, and side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea. Other conditions — including fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, and insomnia — may be considered on a case-by-case basis, particularly where conventional treatments have not provided adequate relief. Complete our online eligibility questionnaire to find out if you may qualify.

Question 35

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

Accepted Answer

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces pain-relieving and anti-nausea effects. CBD (cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and has anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties. Research suggests that products containing both CBD and THC together may provide better pain relief than either alone — known as the "entourage effect." Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate formulation for your condition.

Question 36

What forms does medical cannabis come in?

Accepted Answer

In Malta, medical cannabis is available as oils (taken under the tongue) and dried flower (for vaporisation only — smoking is not an approved method). Oils take effect within 30–60 minutes and last up to 8 hours, while vaporisation provides relief within seconds and lasts 4–6 hours. Your prescribing doctor will recommend the most appropriate form and dosage for your condition.

Question 37

How much medical cannabis am I allowed per month?

Accepted Answer

Patients can be prescribed up to 90 grams of dried flower per month. Your doctor will determine the appropriate amount based on your condition and response to treatment. When ordering prescriptions, always ensure you stay within your monthly allowance.

Question 38

Can foreign visitors bring medical cannabis into Malta?

Accepted Answer

No. Foreign medical cannabis prescriptions are not recognised in Malta, and you cannot bring cannabis into the country from abroad. If you are a tourist or expat living in Malta and have a qualifying condition, you would need to consult with a local prescribing doctor to obtain a Maltese prescription and permit.

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