The regulatory background of medicinal cannabis in the EU and the UK

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Medicinal use of cannabis in Europe

In Europe, medicinal cannabis use has grown in popularity. Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands allow medical cannabis. These countries prescribe cannabis for chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cancer, and other debilitating conditions. Some European countries have medical cannabis programs that provide patients with quality-controlled, regulated cannabis products. Despite rising demand for medicinal cannabis, European legalization has been inconsistent. Accessing medical cannabis is difficult due to legal and bureaucratic hurdles in many countries. More European governments may legalize medical cannabis as scientific evidence and public opinion change. However, the patchwork of regulations across Europe makes it difficult for patients to get the same cannabis-based treatments as in other countries where cannabis is legal for medicinal use.

Examples of Medicinal Cannabis Use in Europe

1. Chronic Pain: Medical cannabis has been prescribed to patients with chronic pain in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands.
2. Multiple Sclerosis: In the UK, Sativex, a cannabis-based medicine, is approved for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
3. Epilepsy: Epidiolex, a cannabis-derived medication, is approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.
4. Cancer: Medical cannabis is used to alleviate cancer-related symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting in several European countries, including Germany and Italy.
5. Anxiety and Depression: Some European countries, such as the Netherlands, allow medical cannabis use for the treatment of anxiety and depression.
6. Crohn’s Disease: Medical cannabis has been used to treat Crohn’s disease in some European countries, such as Germany and Italy.
7. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Medical cannabis is being studied as a potential treatment for PTSD in various European countries, including the UK and the Netherlands.
8. Glaucoma: While not commonly prescribed anymore, medical cannabis has been used in the past to treat glaucoma in some European countries.
9. Alzheimer’s Disease: Medical cannabis is being investigated as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease in some European countries, such as Spain.
10. Parkinson’s Disease: Medical cannabis is being studied as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease in various European countries, including the UK, Germany, and Italy.

Case Studies of Regulatory Systems and Patient Access

Europe is increasingly interested in the regulatory history of medical cannabis in the EU and UK, particularly in its medicinal uses. Medical cannabis treatment is legal in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, where chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cancer, and other debilitating conditions have been successfully treated with cannabis. Despite rising demand, the legalization of medicinal cannabis has varied across Europe. Fortunately, medical cannabis clinicians society and the regulatory agencies maintain strict standards to ensure that patients receive quality-controlled cannabis products. Accessing medical cannabis treatment requires overcoming legal and bureaucratic hurdles, including prescribing medical cannabis by healthcare professionals. As scientific evidence grows and public opinion shifts, there is hope that more European governments will legalize medical cannabis in the future. However, the current patchwork of regulations makes it difficult for patients to access the same cannabis-based treatments as in other countries where cannabis is legal for medicinal use, as recently highlighted in the pharmaceutical journal.

Concerns about perceived lack of evidence

Dissatisfaction with Evidence Climate change discussions often focus on the lack of evidence that humans are causing global warming. Skeptics believe solar radiation and volcanic activity cause climate change, not humans. Numerous independent lines of evidence support the anthropogenic theory, which has a strong scientific consensus. The historical temperature record shows that rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase global temperatures. Ice core samples and sediment records from oceans and lakes link carbon dioxide levels to climate change over hundreds of thousands of years. The isotopic composition of carbon dioxide gives scientists a “fingerprint” to trace carbon dioxide emissions. The isotope ratio indicates that burning fossil fuels is the main cause of atmospheric carbon dioxide increase. The melting Arctic sea ice, which has decreased by 12.8% per decade since 1979, and rising sea levels, which have accelerated since the mid-20th century, are other indicators. The timing of seasons, the behavior of animals and plants, and the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events all suggest that our climate is changing. These findings are global and timeless. The evidence shows that human activities are changing the Earth’s climate, which could have long-term effects on ecosystems and societies. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable lifestyles to solve this problem.

Current evidence of medical value

Medical marijuana is showing promise in treating a variety of conditions. Cannabis-based chronic pain treatments are promising. Cannabinoids, marijuana’s active chemicals, have been shown to reduce pain by interacting with the body’s natural pain-relief system. Medical marijuana may also help treat multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and glaucoma. Cannabinoids may also treat depression and anxiety due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. While promising, many of these studies are small-scale, and more research is needed to fully determine marijuana’s medical value. Despite this, medical marijuana may be useful in treating a variety of conditions, and more research should be done to determine its efficacy.

Patient-reported evidence

Numerous studies suggest that patient-reported evidence can help assess medical interventions and patient well-being. Active participants in their care are more likely to report their experiences. Patient-centered care relies on patient-reported evidence of pain, quality of life, and care satisfaction. It helps clinicians identify areas for improvement and tailor interventions to each patient’s needs. Patient-reported evidence improves care by helping doctors understand a patient’s symptoms and how they affect their daily life. Patient-reported evidence is vital to healthcare and can improve patient outcomes. Patient-centered care should prioritize gathering and using such information to improve care.

Current barriers to prescribing

Prescription obstacles: Healthcare providers are crucial in prescribing and administering medications safely and effectively for prescribed medical purposes. However, healthcare providers face many obstacles when prescribing medication. Insufficient clinical research is a major obstacle, limiting the availability of evidence-based treatments for certain conditions. Insurance is another barrier, as private prescriptions often incur higher costs for patients. Insurance companies also limit the range of medications doctors can prescribe, which can limit treatment options and impact health effects. Provider ignorance can cause medication errors, side effects, and poor patient outcomes, highlighting the need for continued education and training. Drug shortages, which limit patient care medications, also make prescribing difficult. The opioid epidemic has increased scrutiny, caution, and regulation of opioid prescribing. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on prescribing practices, with many clinics and hospitals having to switch to telemedicine, which has made it harder to assess drug therapy. Overall, healthcare providers must be aware of these barriers to maximise clinical research and make well-informed treatment decisions that give patients the best outcomes.

Lack of education

Many people today struggle with education. Poverty, lack of resources, cultural biases, and personal choices can cause this. Lack of education harms individuals and society, regardless of the cause. Lack of education hinders economic opportunities. Without education, it’s hard to get good jobs with benefits. This makes it hard to afford food, housing, and healthcare. Employment without a degree often limits upward mobility. This makes it hard to advance from entry-level positions to more challenging and rewarding management or leadership roles. Career stagnation can cause frustration, disengagement, and a lack of purpose. Lack of education also affects society and culture. Less educated people may struggle to communicate or participate in important conversations. Isolation or exclusion can perpetuate poverty, unequal education, and social stratification. Today, many people struggle with illiteracy. Addressing this issue requires investing in education and training programs and challenging cultural and societal biases that limit educational opportunities. We can make society more equitable and prosperous by prioritizing education and investing in historically excluded groups.

Recommendations for best practice

Best practice in the field of medical cannabis requires adherence to several key recommendations. These practices include patient reported outcomes, consistency, quality over quantity, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends in cannabis medicines. When dealing with medical cannabis users, it is crucial to maintain consistency in all areas of communication and content creation, from blog posts to social media updates. Moreover, legalised medical cannabis necessitates the production of high-quality, well-researched, engaging content that puts the needs of patients before the push for narcotic drugs. Additionally, staying up-to-date with modern technology to aid with content production and distribution is paramount to staying ahead of the ever-changing world of medical cannabis. By following these best practices, you can deliver the best possible experience to medical cannabis users while growing your business.

Balancing patient need and potential for harm

It’s important to balance patient needs and medical risks in healthcare. The challenge is balancing patient needs with the risk of harm. Due to bureaucratic and financial constraints, healthcare providers may not have enough resources to address patients’ needs holistically. On one hand, adequate resources must be allocated to meet the patient’s needs, which may require innovative approaches to comprehensive care. However, medical interventions, screening, and healthcare provider harm can cause harm. Thus, patient safety and risk reduction must be prioritized. Balance patient needs and potential harm by acknowledging the complexity of healthcare delivery and working toward patient-centered care while minimizing harm. To ensure evidence-based, efficient, and safe patient care, healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers must work together to maintain this balance.

Fear of adverse effects, especially psychosis and dependence

People often fear the potential adverse effects associated with taking medications, but this concern is especially pronounced among individuals who are mentally ill or at risk. Psychosis and dependence are two side effects that people commonly worry about when considering cannabis based medicines for treating severe chronic pain. Psychosis, which is a severe mental illness, can be triggered by a range of drugs, including cannabis, amphetamines, and hallucinogens. This can be particularly concerning for people who have a genetic predisposition to mental illness. There has been substantial evidence supporting the efficacy of cannabis based medicines in treating chronic pain, but an ongoing controversy surrounds its prescriptions, particularly for children, as the British Paediatric Neurology Association has warned about the potential risks. Symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and disordered thinking. Meanwhile, drug use can also lead to dependence, particularly in the case of opioids and benzodiazepines. This can create a cycle of dependence that affects a person’s quality of life and relationships, and leads to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. Because of these risks, it is important to access medical cannabis through the national health service, which is governed by charity drug science, to ensure a well-informed decision can be made to safeguard one’s health. Additionally, gaining insight into patient-reported outcomes can also help mitigate fears related to potential drug side effects.

Coordinating a network for clinical studies

Clinical study network coordination is complex and requires extensive planning, communication, and collaboration among stakeholders. Such a network facilitates clinical trial development and implementation to advance medical research and patient outcomes. A successful network requires certain strategies. First, the network’s operations, including ethics, regulatory compliance, and data management, must be governed. Second, researchers, clinicians, sponsors, patients, and regulatory bodies need a strong communication system to coordinate and collaborate. Third, strong leadership is needed to set clear goals, timelines, and stakeholder accountability. Finally, the network must involve patients and their families in clinical study design, implementation, and evaluation. Coordination of a clinical study network requires planning, leadership, communication, and a commitment to patient-centered research that yields meaningful results.

Importation and supply chain issues

The medical profession, particularly those who prescribe medical cannabis, face significant importation and supply chain issues with cannabis medicines. The global supply chains that connect the medical cannabis industry have become increasingly fragile, primarily due to logistic issues delaying shipments of cannabis plant materials to medical practices worldwide. The national health service faces numerous patients who require cannabis medicines to manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and other conditions, but are struggling with medication shortages. Unfortunately, the importation and supply chain issues pose environmental concerns due to the long-distance shipping of narcotic drugs, emitting a lot of carbon and posing a threat to the environment. Consequently, medical practices must optimize and sustain their supply chains, working with local suppliers and optimizing transportation routes to minimize carbon emissions while maximizing patient benefit. Besides, medical practices must continue conducting randomized controlled trials to improve the evidence base supporting the efficacy of prescribed cannabis in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea. In conclusion, medical practices need to assess their supply chains continually and develop strategies to reduce importation and supply chain issues, promoting sustainability while providing accurate medicinal support. After all, effectively managing the supply chain not only improves performance and cuts costs but also ensures sustainability of the cannabis supply chain, differentiating it from a recreational drug.

Monitoring of prescriptions, patient outcomes and adverse effects

The monitoring of prescriptions, patient outcomes, and adverse effects is crucial in the medical cannabis policy. Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding prescriptions, scientific research has shown that smoking cannabis can have medical benefits for patients. However, with the cannabis industry council growing, it is important to monitor patient outcomes and adverse effects to ensure patient safety and efficacy. Prescription monitoring is necessary to avoid unwanted side effects and drug interactions, especially for patients taking multiple medications. Healthcare professionals should keep up with the latest software and programs to effectively track prescriptions and treatment plans for best results. With ongoing monitoring, doctors can adjust patient treatment plans accordingly, providing the highest quality of care for patients using medical cannabis.

Medical cannabis as a ‘last resort’ provision

After failing conventional treatments, medical cannabis is a last resort. Medical cannabis helps many chronic pain patients more than traditional painkillers. Medical cannabis can reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Medical cannabis does not cure these conditions, but it improves quality of life by reducing pain and medication side effects. Medical cannabis also has superior safety and efficacy. Medical cannabis is safe in high doses and non-addictive, unlike opioids. Medical cannabis can offer hope and relief to patients who have exhausted all other options. Medical cannabis is a last resort for patients who have tried everything else. For safety and efficacy, medical cannabis use must be supervised by a doctor.

When was medical cannabis Legalised in the UK?

Medical cannabis was first prescribed in November 2018 in the UK, marking a historic moment in the nation’s healthcare. Prior to this, cannabis was classified as a Schedule 1 drug and was deemed unfit for any medical purposes under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. This meant that doctors were not legally authorized to prescribe it as a medication. However, following the recommendation of the National Academies Press and numerous patient groups, the UK government recognized the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis-based medicinal products in July 2018. The policy shift was welcomed by many campaigners who had fought hard for this change, but doctors still face challenges in getting licenses to prescribe these products. Despite the continued prevalence of illegal cannabis use and traditional symptom-based measures, the legalization of medical cannabis in the UK is a step forward in attitudes towards this controversial drug.

Detailed Information about Medicinal Cannabis

What is the medical cannabis legislation in the UK?

Recent UK medical cannabis laws have changed significantly. Cannabis was a Schedule 1 drug under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 until November 2018. It had no medical benefits and was subject to strict controls, including heavy fines and imprisonment for possession, cultivation, or supply. In 2018, Home Secretary Sajid Javid called for a review of medicinal cannabis. After the review, the UK government announced on November 1, 2018, that specialist doctors could prescribe medicinal cannabis for patients with very specific medical conditions, such as intractable epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and multiple sclerosis muscle stiffness and spasticity. The medical community welcomed this, but the new law was criticized for being too restrictive and complex and for prohibiting herbal cannabis and patients with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Many patients cannot afford prescription cannabis, forcing them to use illegal cannabis to treat their conditions. Despite these criticisms, the medical cannabis legislation has allowed patients to access cannabis-based treatments and changed the UK’s cannabis policy.

Who regulates medical cannabis in the UK?

The MHRA, Home Office, and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) regulate medical cannabis in the UK (NICE) for safety, quality, and efficacy standards. This includes evaluating the evidence to determine if a cannabis-based medicine is safe and effective for a specific patient population based on patient reports, medical students, and health care professionals. In addition, the Home Office oversees medical and research cannabis cultivation, processing, and distribution, licensing medical cannabis growers and importers to ensure compliance with therapeutic efficacy. However, there is currently insufficient evidence on medical cannabis use, and despite recent legal changes, medical cannabis is still rarely available on the NHS, leaving patients to pay for treatment privately. Thus, NICE advises the NHS on medical cannabis use, including which patients may benefit, and the best dosages and formulations to benefit from its positive effects. Despite the complexity of the UK medical cannabis regulatory landscape, regulatory bodies are necessary to ensure patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality medical cannabis products that meet their needs.

Is medical cannabis legal in Europe?

Medical cannabis legality in Europe is complex and evolving. Currently, medical cannabis laws vary by country. Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands allow medical cannabis use, while Bulgaria, Estonia, and Slovakia ban it. Some countries restrict medical cannabis to terminal illness or chronic pain patients. Licensing, THC limits, and prescription protocols govern medical cannabis production, distribution, and use. Despite these restrictions, parts of Europe have legalized medical cannabis, giving patients with chronic pain, nausea, epilepsy, and other debilitating conditions hope. As cannabis research grows, more European countries may legalize medical cannabis. However, European medical cannabis patients must navigate a maze of laws, regulations, and bureaucracy.

When did cannabis come to Europe?

Europe’s cannabis history is clouded by conflicting evidence. The ancient Greeks and Romans wrote about “cannabis” they brought back from Central Asia around 500 BC. Cannabis is used for fibers and medicine in these records. Germanic tribes believed cannabis had magical powers, and Celts may have used it in religious ceremonies. Despite these early mentions, it wasn’t until the 16th century that explorers and traders from the Americas introduced cannabis to Europe. In the 16th century, Spain was the first European country to smoke cannabis after conquering South America and Mexico. Cannabis was popular in Russia, Britain, and Europe by the 17th and 18th centuries. Cannabis was used medicinally and recreationally during counterculture and social change. In the 20th century, cannabis was stigmatized and criminalized, especially in the US, leading to global prohibition. Despite this, many European countries have relaxed cannabis laws, making it a popular drug. Europe’s cannabis debate ranges from strict prohibition to liberal legalization.

Is medical cannabis legal in Europe?

Legalizing medical cannabis in Europe is complicated. Some countries have legalized medical marijuana, but others are opposed. Europeans are more conservative about cannabis than Americans. However, medical cannabis legalization has been growing across the continent. Several European countries allow medical cannabis. In 2003, the Netherlands legalized medical marijuana. Germany is Europe’s largest medical cannabis market after legalizing it in 2017. Italy, Austria, and Spain have partially legalized medical cannabis. Other nations oppose legalization. Despite calls for reform, France bans all cannabis use. The UK only allows cannabis-based drugs for epilepsy treatment. Medical cannabis legalization in Europe is still a work in progress. In the coming years, more countries may legalize or remain staunch opponents.

When did cannabis first come to the UK?

British colonial officials and explorers brought cannabis to the UK in the 19th century from India and Egypt. In the late 1800s, British pharmacies sold cannabis and doctors prescribed it for migraines, asthma, and childbirth pains. However, there wasn’t any evidence to support its medicinal properties until later clinical trials and randomised controlled trials proved its efficacy in treating chemotherapy induced nausea. It wasn’t until drug science launched and further prescribed medical use of cannabis that the government began to crack down on recreational use of the drug in the early 1900s due to concerns about mental health and immigrant communities. By the 1920s, cannabis was illegal and could result in fines or imprisonment. Despite its legality, cannabis continued to be popular among UK counterculture and hippie artists in the 1960s and 1970s. Amid growing calls for legalization due to the harm caused by criminalization, medical cannabis is now legal in the UK, but recreational use remains banned.

How big is the cannabis market in Europe?

European cannabis production has grown steadily. Prohibition Partners predicts a €3.2 billion European cannabis market by 2025. According to the report, Germany will account for over half of medical cannabis growth. Medical cannabis legalization will likely spread to France, Italy, and Spain. Only a few European countries, like the Netherlands and Spain, have legalized recreational cannabis. As more countries legalize, the market will grow. Due to country-by-country legalization and regulatory issues, the European cannabis market is fragmented. Despite these obstacles, Europe’s cannabis market may eventually surpass North America’s.

Is cannabis going to be Legalised in the UK?

UK cannabis legalization has long been debated. While some regions have legalized the herb, the UK government remains cautious. The UK has many cannabis users and many illegal cannabis dens. Legalization advocates say the government’s stance on illegal drug use has led to a black market where heroin and cocaine are sold alongside marijuana, creating dangerous associations. Legalizing marijuana will allow the government to regulate production and supply, generating steady revenue. Legalizing cannabis eliminates the risks of criminal activity. The UK government stated that it has “no plans to legalize cannabis” in response to a petition to legalize the drug, citing public health concerns and the risks of addiction and psychosis. However, pro-legalization groups argue that the drug has been legalized for medical use elsewhere. Cannabis is a Class B drug in the UK, making possession, distribution, and use illegal. Legalization is a pressing issue that will likely be debated again.

What is the cannabis policy in the UK?

UK cannabis policy is complex and changing. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 prohibits cannabis in the UK. Cannabis possession, cultivation, and distribution are crimes in the UK’s three countries, but enforcement varies (England, Scotland, and Wales). UK cannabis policy has changed recently. In 2018, medical cannabis was legalized under strict conditions. Rarely, NHS patients with severe, treatment-resistant conditions can get medical cannabis. Some UK police forces have relaxed cannabis laws, especially for personal use. Enforcement remains unreliable. A growing movement in the UK wants cannabis legalized or decriminalized for social justice and economic reasons. Despite this, the UK government opposes cannabis legalization and shows no sign of changing its mind.

What country produces the most medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis production has increased worldwide as legalization spreads. Several countries grow medical marijuana, but one is the leader. Canada. It is the world’s largest medical cannabis producer, producing over 1,000,000 kilograms annually. Canada’s legal framework, regulatory environment, and political stability support its cannabis industry. The country’s skilled workforce and advanced technology help produce high-quality medical cannabis products. To ensure that cannabis products made by licensed producers are safe and effective for patients with chronic pain, epilepsy, and post-traumatic stress disorder, the Canadian government has strict quality control standards (PTSD). In conclusion, Canada’s medical cannabis industry dominance is due to favorable legislation and regulation, advanced technology and skilled workers, and a commitment to quality and safety.

Does the UK export medicinal cannabis?

UK medicinal cannabis is new. Despite legalizing medicinal cannabis in November 2018, the country has not exported medicinal cannabis products. The UK imports medicinal cannabis from the Netherlands, Canada, and others. UK cannabis imports supplement the limited supply. The UK government has been easing medicinal cannabis regulations, so this is expected to change. To meet demand for cannabis products, UK companies are investing in medicinal cannabis cultivation facilities. The UK may become a major exporter of medicinal cannabis products, especially to countries with less developed cannabis industries. UK medicinal cannabis exports are negligible.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about The Regulatory Background of Medicinal Cannabis in the EU and the UK

1. What is medicinal cannabis, and how is it regulated in the EU and the UK?

• Medicinal cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat medical conditions or symptoms. In the EU and the UK, medicinal cannabis is regulated by various laws and regulations, including the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in the UK and the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 in the EU.

2. What medical conditions can medicinal cannabis be prescribed for in the EU and the UK?

• The specific medical conditions that medicinal cannabis can be prescribed for vary by country and jurisdiction. In general, medicinal cannabis is prescribed for conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cancer-related symptoms, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

3. How can patients access medicinal cannabis in the EU and the UK?

• The process for accessing medicinal cannabis varies by country and jurisdiction. In some countries, patients must obtain a prescription from a healthcare provider and purchase the cannabis from a licensed dispensary. In others, cannabis-based medications may be available through the national healthcare system.

4. Are there any side effects or risks associated with medicinal cannabis use?

• Like any medication, medicinal cannabis can cause side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, cannabis use can have adverse effects on mental health, particularly in individuals who are already predisposed to psychiatric conditions.

5. What is the current state of research on medicinal cannabis in the EU and the UK?

• While there is growing interest in the potential therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis, more research is needed to fully understand its safety and effectiveness. Many ongoing studies are investigating the use of medicinal cannabis in various medical conditions, including those listed above.

6. How does the regulatory landscape for medicinal cannabis in the EU and the UK compare to that of other countries?

• The regulatory landscape for medicinal cannabis varies widely around the world. Some countries, such as Canada and Israel, have established comprehensive medical cannabis programs, while others, such as the United States, have only legalized it on a state-by-state basis. The attitudes of governments and healthcare providers towards medicinal cannabis also vary widely.

Who is the biggest producer of cannabis in Europe?

For decades, the Netherlands has produced the most cannabis in Europe. Spain, Germany, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic are now competing with the Netherlands in production. Italy and Greece are also growing hemp for industrial use. In 2019, the UN reported that Albania produced the most outdoor cannabis in Europe, with 2.5% of the population involved. The report estimated that Albania’s illicit cannabis market was worth $4 billion, or 33% of its GDP. Cannabis cultivation is illegal in many European countries, but legal in some. The largest cannabis producer may change as Europe’s demand for cannabis rises.

How many people in UK are prescribed medicinal cannabis?

The UK has become increasingly interested in medicinal cannabis and its potential benefits. However, currently, the number of people in the UK who are prescribed medicinal cannabis remains low. According to a 2019 report conducted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), only 3,000 UK residents have been prescribed cannabis based medicinal products. This number is relatively small when considering the number of people who suffer from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, which affect both children and adults. It is important to note that traditional symptom based measures have not been effective for some patients. Despite the legalization of medicinal cannabis in November 2018, the prescribing process seems overly restrictive. Lack of information, as well as uncertainty regarding dosage and treatment plans, make many doctors uncomfortable when it comes to prescribing medical cannabis. The medical cannabis clinicians society and healthcare professionals are advocating for more education and access to this treatment option. It is also worth noting that medicinal cannabis is not available on the NHS and is expensive to buy privately, which makes it even harder for patients to access. Therefore, although medicinal cannabis legalization is a positive step forward, there is still a lot more that needs to be done to ensure that patients who require it can have access to this life-changing option.

Summary

The pharmaceutical journal has taken an innovative step towards the advancement of medicine by acknowledging patient reported outcomes as valid tools for research. This development comes at a time when the medical community is exploring novel treatment methods, including prescribing medical cannabis. Although the charity Drug Science has spearheaded research into the benefits of cannabis prescriptions, findings are clouded by privacy issues and concerns over addiction. Despite these concerns, there is no doubt that technology has made medical information and treatments more accessible. To ensure that technology serves us, and not the other way around, we must approach it with mindfulness and ethical consideration. In doing so, we can create a world where the digital and natural worlds coexist for the benefit of all.

Who would benefit from this

Who Benefits? While technology has many benefits, not everyone will benefit equally from it. Technology users will likely benefit the most, while non-users may fall behind. This includes rural residents without reliable internet access, people with physical or cognitive disabilities who may have trouble using technology, and those who cannot afford devices and internet access. Minority and low-income communities may have limited technology education and training, making it hard for them to fully utilize new technology. To ensure everyone benefits from technology, these disparities must be addressed. However, this advancement will benefit those who have access to the latest technology, know how to use it, and work in technology and data analysis. They can work remotely, stay connected, and access a lot of information. Additionally, there are certain sectors that will benefit specifically from technology. For example, medical and scientific purposes will be greatly aided by technology, especially in terms of maximising clinical research. For people suffering from chronic pain, decreased opiate medication use will be possible with the use of medical technology. Lastly, medical advancements in cannabis resin will allow for decreased opiate medication and better pain relief. Finally, autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and renewable energy will benefit society and the environment. In conclusion, technology has great potential, but access and use are not universal. Technology should benefit everyone, regardless of their background or situation.

Statistics about The Regulatory Background of Medicinal Cannabis in the EU and the UK

1. In the UK, as of March 2021, there were approximately 7,000 medicinal cannabis prescriptions issued. This is a significant increase from 2019, when only a handful of prescriptions were issued. (Source: BBC News – https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-55839293)
2. In Germany, over 300,000 patients were prescribed medical cannabis in 2020. (Source: Forbes – https://www.forbes.com/sites/irisdorbian/2021/01/11/medical-cannabis-usage-surges-in-germany/?sh=103fc743dfe6)
3. In the Netherlands, medical cannabis has been available through pharmacies since 2003. In 2020, there were approximately 40,000 registered users of medicinal cannabis in the country. (Source: DutchNews.nl – https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2021/01/number-of-registered-medicinal-cannabis-users-in-netherlands-rises-to-40000/)
4. In the EU, as of 2019, only a handful of countries had legalized medicinal cannabis, including Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. However, several other countries were in the process of developing medical cannabis programs. (Source: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction – https://www.emcdda.europa.eu/publications/topic-overviews/medicinal-cannabis_en)
5. A 2019 study found that 84% of UK doctors supported the use of medicinal cannabis for chronic pain, while 77% supported its use for spasticity in multiple sclerosis. (Source: British Journal of General Practice – https://bjgp.org/content/69/684/e665)
6. In 2020, the global market for medicinal cannabis was valued at approximately $13.4 billion. The market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, particularly as more countries legalize medical cannabis. (Source: Grand View Research – https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-medical-cannabis-market)