The use and availability of medical cannabis in the UK – historic breakdown

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Medicinal Cannabis: History, Pharmacology, And Implications for the Acute Care Setting

Medical marijuana, or medicinal cannabis, has been used for centuries. Cannabis was first used to treat pain, inflammation, and digestive disorders in ancient China. Many cultures have used medicinal cannabis for various conditions. Cannabinoids make cannabis pharmacological. THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, is the most studied. CBD (cannabidiol) and other cannabinoids can treat pain, anxiety, and seizures. Hospitals and emergency departments are increasingly using medicinal cannabis. Legal, regulatory, clinical, and healthcare professional education issues remain. Despite these obstacles, medicinal cannabis may help treat acute pain, nausea, and other symptoms of a variety of medical conditions. As we learn more about medicinal cannabis’s pharmacology and potential benefits, acute care settings may use it more.

Benefits of Medicinal Cannabis in Acute Care Settings

1. Effective pain management: Medicinal cannabis has been found to be effective in managing acute pain, particularly in patients with conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and neuropathic pain.
2. Nausea and vomiting relief: Cannabis has been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and other medical treatments.
3. Anxiety reduction: Medicinal cannabis has been found to have anxiolytic effects and may be useful in managing anxiety in acute care settings.
4. Seizure control: Some studies suggest that cannabis-based treatments may be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
5. Appetite stimulation: Cannabis has been shown to stimulate appetite in patients with conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and anorexia.
6. Sleep aid: Some patients have reported improvements in sleep after using medicinal cannabis, which could be helpful in acute care settings where sleep disruption is common.
7. Fewer side effects: Unlike many traditional medications, cannabis-based treatments may have fewer side effects, making them an attractive option for some patients.

The Endocannabinoid system and therapeutic mechanisms of cannabis

The complex endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates mood, pain, appetite, and immune response through receptors, endogenous ligands, and enzymes. It regulates neurotransmitters and signaling pathways to maintain homeostasis. Anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol activate the ECS (CBD). Cannabis has been used therapeutically for centuries, and recent research has found several ECS-mediated mechanisms. THC’s brain CB1 receptor binding causes euphoria, altered perception, and appetite stimulation. CBD inhibits endocannabinoid breakdown and modulates serotonin receptors, but it does not directly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Cannabis may treat pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and inflammation through these mechanisms. The ECS and cannabis-based therapies require more research to be deemed safe for use, especially for alleviating neuropathic pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Decriminalising cannabis and allowing for the production of cannabis-based medicinal products could be the solution to the promising therapeutic effects observed so far.

Availability of cannabis-based medicines in the UK

Cannabis-based medicines in the UK have a complex history starting with the cannabis plant being classified as a Class B drug under UK law. However, 2018 saw the legalization of cannabis medicines for medical use. Despite this, patients still face several barriers to treatment. One of the major issues is that healthcare professionals often lack knowledge about cannabis-based medicines, including the benefits and prescribing methods. Additionally, while smoking cannabis has been associated with health risks, cannabis medicines have shown potential benefits. Sadly, these treatments are too expensive for many patients as the NHS doesn’t cover cannabis-based medicines, making them mostly available in private clinics. Finally, cannabis-based medicines’ production and distribution regulations cause inconsistencies in product quality and availability. Nevertheless, there is hope as more clinics are offering cannabis-based treatments, and patient education and access are improving. Many believe that in the coming years, cannabis-based medicines will become more mainstream for treating a variety of conditions in the UK.

The UK’s medical cannabis start-ups

Medical cannabis startups are growing in the UK to meet rising demand amidst changing attitudes towards the drug in the country and in other European countries. Cannaray, for instance, received £7.8m from industry veterans and investors in 2019. The London-based company develops medical cannabis for chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, which are among the many conditions medical cannabis has been shown to benefit. Greenheart CBD, which makes oils, balms, and capsules, is another major UK medical cannabis company. These therapeutic agents have proven to help alleviate symptoms of a range of anxiety disorders, depression, neurological disorders, and chronic pain, all cited as leading causes of hospital admissions. As more people seek out natural treatments for various medical conditions, the Irish company, which has a large UK presence, has seen a rise in demand for its products. Medipen, which makes high-quality cannabis oil vaporizers that can aid in the administration of the drug, and Grow Biotech, which develops new cannabis-based products and treatments for various medical conditions, are other UK medical cannabis startups also contributing to the industry’s growth. Despite uk law’s relationship with cannabis, the UK’s medical cannabis start-up industry is growing and will become increasingly important in the healthcare sector.

THE MEDICINAL CANNABIS DEBATE

Medical cannabis use is hotly debated, particularly in the UK where even though the British Paediatric Neurology Association suggests that it can be used to treat epilepsy in some cases, it is still an illegal drug. Cannabis treats chronic pain, seizures, anxiety, and depression, according to supporters. Despite this, cannabis arrests and cannabis offences remain commonplace, as opponents of medicinal cannabis say it causes cognitive impairment, psychosis, and addiction. They worry that lack of industry regulation and standardization can lead to contaminated or mislabeled products. This is all in line with the Controlled Substances Act, which lists cannabis as a controlled substance. Nevertheless, numerous studies suggest that cannabis can treat symptoms that traditional medications can’t. Moreover, cannabis may be less addictive and harmful than many painkillers. Despite the controversy and illegal status, many countries have legalized medicinal cannabis, and there is growing evidence of its efficacy for certain medical conditions. More research may lead to public acceptance of cannabis as a medical treatment. When considering medical cannabis use, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.

Current evidence of medical value

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC have growing medical evidence, particularly in the use of cannabis based medicines. These compounds have been shown to treat anxiety, depression, and chronic pain with the history of medical marijuana in the UK serving as a compelling backdrop to its efficacy. CBD may even reduce epilepsy symptoms, and THC has been proposed to help chemotherapy patients gain weight, making a formidable case for prescribing medical cannabis. Although recreational cannabis is still illegal in the UK, many states in the US offer medical cannabis programs to patients who may benefit, despite legal and regulatory hurdles. These compounds have promising therapeutic potential for a wide range of medical conditions, but more research is needed to fully understand both their mechanisms of action and side effects. As cannabis in the UK moves into the spotlight, and research and the regulatory environment evolve, we can expect to see more evidence of the medical value of cannabinoids and other substances, giving patients with chronic illness and other health issues new hope and options.

MEDICINAL USES

Plant-based medicine has been widely used for centuries by medical cannabis users, but it wasn’t until the legalization of medical cannabis that CBD and THC were identified as the most popular chemicals in cannabis sativa. CBD, unlike THC, offers medicinal properties without the psychoactive effects associated with the latter. This makes CBD an attractive option for prescribed cannabis to treat a multitude of ailments such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, and migraines. Furthermore, studies show that CBD may help manage depression, and regulate mood and social behavior, particularly among patients with multiple sclerosis. CBD anti-inflammatory properties also make it an alternative to traditional painkillers for conditions such as arthritis and MS. Additionally, Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, has been approved by the FDA to treat rare epilepsy in children. More research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of CBD, yet its anti-tumor properties offer hope for those fighting cancer or suffering chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Medical cannabis users should consult with their doctor to determine if legalised medical cannabis is a safe and effective treatment option.

Patient-reported evidence

Patient Reports Clinical trials and healthcare research have increasingly emphasized patient-reported outcomes (PROs). PROs are patient-reported health, symptoms, quality of life, and treatment experiences. PROs can reveal patients’ views on treatment efficacy, tolerability, health, and quality of life. PROs can also boost patient engagement and satisfaction by letting them participate in research. PRO measures must be valid, reliable, and tailored to the study population. Patient-reported evidence enhances healthcare research and improves patient outcomes.

Fear of adverse effects, especially psychosis and dependence

Psychoactive substances carry the risk of psychosis and dependence. Psychosis causes delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. Cannabis and hallucinogens can cause psychosis. However, genetics, environment, and mental health conditions affect psychosis risk. Regular cannabis use may increase psychosis risk, but the evidence is inconclusive. Addiction is another concern. Dependence occurs when a person needs a drug to function and avoid withdrawals. Addiction risk varies because substance use disorders change brain chemistry. Opioids and benzodiazepines can be highly addictive and dangerous. However, many people use psychoactive substances recreationally without problems. To avoid addiction and dependence, drug use should be done cautiously, educated, and aware. In conclusion, drug side effects are real and should be considered before using psychoactive substances. To reduce harm, prioritize mental and physical health, seek support, and use substances cautiously. Understanding and managing risks can help people make informed substance use decisions.

Detailed Information about The use and availability of medical cannabis in the UK

Current barriers to prescribing

There are currently a number of barriers that can impede prescribers from dispensing necessary medications to their patients. One area of concern comes from restrictive practices by insurance companies, pharmacy benefit managers, and government-run healthcare programs. These entities often place limits on drugs or dosages, require pre-authorization or step therapy, and impede prescribing access to cannabis-based medicinal products. In the case of chemotherapy-induced nausea, prescribing cannabis-based products could provide relief, but the criminalization of marijuana makes this unattainable in many jurisdictions. The rising cost of medications is yet another significant concern for prescribers and patients alike. High drug prices can create financial stresses for patients while simultaneously impeding prescribers from dispensing crucial medications. Drug shortages can further limit medication options and reduce medication efficacy and patient satisfaction. Finally, the lack of electronic health records, inconsistent documentation, and poor interprofessional communication can significantly hinder effective prescribing. To overcome these barriers, prescribers, regulators, technology companies, and other stakeholders need to work together. It is also important to acknowledge and consider the findings of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and other related research that may inform policy decisions. One potential solution could be to decriminalize cannabis and increase access to cannabis-based medicinal products for those in need.

A brief history of medical cannabis

Medical cannabis has a complex and ancient history. Ancient Chinese surgery anesthetics used cannabis. Cannabis was used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and pain in ancient Egypt and India. Europe, Africa, and the Middle East used cannabis medicinally for centuries. Cannabis was banned in many countries in the early 20th century due to its psychoactive effects and addiction potential. Cannabis was banned worldwide for many years. Despite these restrictions, interest in medical cannabis grew as research showed its potential benefits for a variety of conditions. Some countries have legalized cannabis for medical use in recent years. This has increased interest in medical cannabis as a natural and potentially effective treatment for many conditions, from chronic pain and inflammation to anxiety and depression.

Recommendations for best practice

Best practices in medicinal cannabis use are essential for success. Several recommendations improve goal-setting and achievement. The first tip is to set SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. SMART goal-setting considers all aspects of the desired outcome for using cannabis as medicine and allows tracking and evaluation. Second, set small, achievable goals for growing cannabis or accessing cannabis-based medicines. Breaking down a complex goal helps patients understand, track, and stay motivated. Thirdly, revisit and adjust goals based on any changes in symptoms or desired outcomes. Evaluating and updating goals is as important as having a useful structure for using medicinal cannabis. Progress review shows what worked, what needs improvement, and can help detect any potential psychotic symptoms caused by smoking cannabis. Visualize success with cannabis-based medications, which goal-setting often lacks. Imagining the benefits and relief of cannabis-based medicines inspires and motivates significant commitment to treatment. These best practices boost motivation, commitment, and goal achievement for those using medicinal cannabis.

Coordinating a network for clinical studies

A clinical study network requires several key components. First, researchers, clinicians, patients, and other stakeholders must communicate clearly. Meetings, conference calls, and emails can do this. The network’s roles and responsibilities must be clearly defined in protocols and procedures. This covers participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, and dissemination. Coordinating a clinical study network requires ensuring that all parties follow ethical guidelines and put patients first. This includes informed consent, patient privacy and confidentiality, and safe and risk-free studies. A successful clinical studies network requires high levels of collaboration, trust, and shared commitment to improving medical knowledge and patient outcomes. We can meet these goals and advance disease research by establishing clear communication, protocols, and ethical standards and building strong relationships among network members.

Importation and supply chain issues

Globalisation has complicated importation and supply chain issues, particularly in the context of medical research related to cannabis-based medicinal products. Clinical research has highlighted the potential benefits of cannabis-based products like alleviating chemotherapy-induced nausea. Cross-border importers face customs, regulatory, and documentation issues when dealing with legal cannabis and the importation of cannabis plants. This issue is also faced by the British government who have been debating legalising cannabis for medical purposes. Supply chain transparency is a major issue for businesses involved in the production and distribution of cannabis-based medicinal products. Third-party logistics providers and freight forwarders make tracking these products difficult due to the legal complexities involved. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused further delays and backlogs due to port closures, trade restrictions, and transportation network disruptions in the cannabis industry, including those related to cannabis-based medicinal products. Companies have had to adapt by diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory, and adopting real-time supply chain visibility technologies to ensure the timely delivery of these important products. Counterfeit and stolen goods are another major issue in the cannabis industry, as they pose a significant threat to the safety and wellbeing of consumers, especially in the case of cannabis-based medicinal products. Counterfeit cannabis products hurt legitimate businesses, including those that produce these products, which can have serious repercussions for patients who rely on them. Importers, brand owners, and the British government must work with customs and law enforcement to identify and seize infringing goods to protect their intellectual property and the safety of their customers. In conclusion, successful importation and supply chain management of cannabis-based medicinal products require careful planning, management, and cooperation to comply with regulations, protect intellectual property, and mitigate risks to public health. Technology, supplier diversification, and strong partnerships with logistics providers, regulatory agencies, and the British government will help companies overcome these challenges and succeed in the global marketplace for cannabis products.

Balancing patient need and potential for harm

Balancing patient need and potential for harm in the importation of cannabis-based medicinal products is crucial, and businesses face a number of challenges in supply chain transparency. The complexity of global importation and supply chain issues for cannabis-based products has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including issues with transportation network disruptions and port closures, resulting in difficulties in the importation of cannabis-based products for patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced nausea or menstrual pain. However, legalizing cannabis and increasing scientific research could help mitigate these issues by enabling companies to develop high potency cannabis-based products that can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions related to the central nervous system. In order to import cannabis-based products for medicinal purposes, companies must obtain a medical license and comply with regulations to ensure that these products are legitimate and safe to use. Counterfeit and stolen goods are also a major issue, as they can harm patients and legitimate businesses alike. To protect against these risks, companies must invest in technology, diversify their supplier base, and build strong partnerships with logistics providers and regulatory agencies. By doing so, they will be better equipped to navigate these challenges and succeed in the global marketplace, offering some of the most valuable medicines available today.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about The use and availability of medical cannabis in the UK – historic breakdown

1. What medical conditions can medical cannabis be prescribed for in the UK? Answer: In the UK, medical cannabis can be prescribed for a limited range of medical conditions, including epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis. However, the availability of medical cannabis treatments remains limited.
2. Is medical cannabis legal in the UK? Answer: Yes, medical cannabis is legal in the UK for specific medical conditions. However, it is heavily restricted and can only be prescribed by specialist doctors who have been approved by the government’s regulatory body.
3. Can I grow my own medical cannabis in the UK? Answer: No, it is illegal to grow cannabis plants in the UK without a license from the government. Even with a license, it is unlikely that individuals would be permitted to grow cannabis for personal use.
4. How easy is it to get a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK? Answer: It is currently difficult to obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK due to the strict regulations surrounding its use. Patients must be assessed by a specialist doctor and meet certain criteria before being considered for a prescription.
5. Are there any risks or side effects associated with medical cannabis use? Answer: Like any medication, medical cannabis can have side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite. It can also interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a doctor before using medical cannabis.

Monitoring of prescriptions, patient outcomes and adverse effects

Healthcare requires monitoring prescriptions, patient outcomes, and adverse effects. It involves monitoring drug efficacy, patient response, and side effects. It ensures patients get the best care while minimizing harm. Healthcare professionals track prescriptions, dosage, and frequency. To prevent overdosing and drug interactions, this information is essential. Assessing patient outcomes—whether the medication is working, improving the patient’s condition, and causing side effects—is also crucial. Monitoring patient outcomes prevents disease complications, hospital readmissions, and medication errors. Healthcare professionals can improve care plans, tailor medication prescriptions, and suggest alternative therapies by assessing patient outcomes. Patient safety requires monitoring adverse effects. Adverse effects are medication side effects. Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and even anaphylaxis can result. Early detection of adverse effects helps healthcare providers manage them, prevent patient harm, and develop effective treatments. Finally, monitoring prescriptions, patient outcomes, and adverse effects improves healthcare quality and safety. Healthcare professionals can optimize patient care, reduce medication risks, and improve outcomes by monitoring these factors.

when did marijuana become illegal in the UK?

Cannabis (weed) was once legal in the UK for various purposes, including medicinal and recreational use. In fact, traditional Chinese medicine has used cannabis for centuries to treat a range of ailments including irritable bowel syndrome and chemotherapy-induced nausea. However, the UK’s 1928 Dangerous Drugs Act banned cannabis, influenced mainly by the US’s anti-cannabis laws. Despite little evidence to support claims that cannabis caused mental illness and addiction, the government criminalized cannabis, driven in part by racism and xenophobia toward immigrants who were thought to use cannabis. Since then, the 1970s Misuse of Drugs Act has tightened UK cannabis prohibition, even for cannabis-based medicinal products. Cannabis joined amphetamines and barbiturates in Class B, and supplying or trafficking cannabis carried a life sentence, while possession carried a five-year sentence. Despite Canada and several US states legalizing cannabis for medicinal and recreational use in recent years, concerns about mental health and drug dependency have prevented the UK government from legalizing cannabis-based products.

What is the history behind medical marijuana?

For centuries, medical marijuana has a rich and diverse history. 1) Ganja smokers in ancient civilizations recognized the plant’s therapeutic benefits and used it for various medical purposes such as anesthetics, anti-malaria, anti-rheumatism, and laxatives. 2) As cannabis use extended across Europe and North America, many physicians started prescribing the plant for patients to relieve pain and other symptoms. However, due to its psychoactive effects, cannabis was widely banned in the early 20th century. 3) Despite this, some physicians continued to prescribe it privately for cancer-related nausea and pain relief. A pharmaceutical journal documented some of these private prescriptions. 4) In the 1990s, some states in America finally legalized medical marijuana use, enabling patient access to the drug. Today, medical marijuana is legal in many countries worldwide, and researchers are investigating its medicinal properties, prompting an increase in interest in growing cannabis and developing cannabis-based medicines for a variety of health conditions.

Summary

In conclusion, self-care, which can also include using cannabis based products for medicinal purposes, is vital. Self-care includes eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep, and doing things that make us happy and relaxed. Self-care is essential in our busy lives to avoid burnout, stress, and other health issues such as chemotherapy induced nausea, and psychiatric disorders. Self-care, including the use of cannabis based medicinal products, improves quality of life, immune system, stress, and relationships. No matter how busy we are or if we need to decriminalise cannabis, we should take time each day to care for ourselves. Small acts of self-care like taking a bath, walking in nature, or taking deep breaths along with the use of cannabis based medicinal products can improve our health and happiness. Let’s prioritize self-care and all of its benefits.

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Statistics about The use and availability of medical cannabis in the UK

1. As of June 2021, only 6 patients had been prescribed medical cannabis through the NHS since it was legalized in 2018. (Source: The Pharmaceutical Journal)
2. In 2019, the UK government approved the importation of medical cannabis from the Netherlands, the first time a country has allowed bulk shipments of cannabis flower for medicinal purposes. (Source: BBC News)
3. The UK’s medical cannabis market is projected to reach £1.2 billion by 2024. (Source: Prohibition Partners)
4. The cost of medical cannabis treatment in the UK can range from £2,500 to £10,000 per year, making it unaffordable for many patients. (Source: The Guardian)
5. In 2020, the number of cannabis-related arrests in England and Wales reached its highest level in almost a decade, despite the legalization of medical cannabis. (Source: The Guardian)