How to obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK

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What is medical cannabis?

Medical marijuana, or cannabis, is used for medicinal purposes. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD have showed promise in treating a variety of medical ailments. Medicinal cannabis can be smoked, vaped, or eaten or drunk. Patients may prefer CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with therapeutic qualities. Medicinal cannabis treats chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and PTSD. Except for a few medical cannabis products that can only be prescribed by a professional doctor, recreational use is prohibited in the UK. Medical cannabis is controversial and under study, yet it may help patients who have tried everything else.

Conditions Treated by Medical Cannabis

1. Chronic Pain: Medical cannabis can be used to alleviate chronic pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy.

2. Nausea and Vomiting: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting can be reduced with medical cannabis, which can also help stimulate appetite.

3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Medical cannabis has been shown to reduce muscle stiffness and spasms, as well as pain and sleep disturbances associated with MS.

4. Epilepsy: CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in medical cannabis, has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some patients with epilepsy.

5. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Medical cannabis has been used to help alleviate symptoms of PTSD, including anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

6. Crohn’s Disease: Medical cannabis has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of Crohn’s Disease, an inflammatory bowel disease.

7. Glaucoma: Medical cannabis can reduce intraocular pressure, which can help alleviate symptoms of glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that can lead to vision loss.

Understanding the legal status of medical cannabis in the UK

UK medical cannabis law has been a contentious issue for years. Under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, cannabis was a Category 1 drug, meaning it had no medicinal value and was highly addictive and abused. In 2018, the UK legalised medical cannabis. Medical cannabis can only be prescribed by registered doctors including neurologists and palliative medicine specialists. The patient must meet strict criteria, including having tried all previous treatments, and have an unmet clinical need that licenced pharmaceutical products cannot meet. Medical cannabis must meet quality, safety, and efficacy standards, and only certain products are approved. Some see the UK’s medicinal cannabis legislation as too limited, but others see it as an essential first step towards cannabis law reform. Ultimately, the legal situation of medical cannabis in the UK is complex and likely to continue to spark debate.

Types of medical cannabis

Sativa and Indica make up UK medical cannabis. Sativa strains are psychotropic and used to treat anxiety and despair. THC, which causes cannabis’s “high,” is stronger in sativa strains. Indica strains calm and relax. They alleviate sleeplessness, muscle spasms, and chronic pain. Indica strains contain more CBD, a non-psychoactive chemical with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities. Medical marijuana strains can potentially be hybrids of Sativa and Indica. To find the correct medicinal cannabis strain, see a doctor. Medical cannabis in the UK is heavily regulated and requires a doctor’s prescription.

Conditions and symptoms that medical cannabis can treat

Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective for a range of conditions and symptoms. It is known to alleviate chronic pain and enhance the quality of life, as demonstrated in many trials. Furthermore, medical cannabis has beneficial effects for patients suffering from different illnesses, such as reducing inflammation in multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and Crohn’s disease, and relieving chemotherapy induced nausea. It can also improve mood and mental wellness in anxiety and depression patients. For insomniacs, medical cannabis may offer a safer and more relaxing alternative than traditional drugs. To receive medical cannabis treatment, it is important to consult with a certified healthcare physician who specializes in medical cannabis. Patients may need to attend follow up consultations at different clinics to receive ongoing medical care.

Benefits and drawbacks of using medical cannabis

Medicinal cannabis can help patients with numerous diseases. It relieves chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, which is difficult to treat with standard opioids. Arthritis and Crohn’s patients benefit from medical cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties. It also reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Medical cannabis has downsides. Lack of regulation and dose can cause variable results and injury. Cannabis can cause dizziness, weariness, and motor coordination issues, which can be problematic for drivers and machinery operators. Long-term cannabis use can cause depression and anxiety.

Before using medical cannabis, patients should explore its pros and cons with doctors. To decide patient dose and delivery, medicinal cannabis-experienced doctors should be consulted. Medical cannabis’ pros and cons must be considered individually.

How to find a doctor who can prescribe medical cannabis

Few UK doctors can prescribe medical cannabis. GPs can assess patients and recommend them to specialists if they qualify for medical cannabis treatment. Patients may need to investigate and contact specialists since some Physicians are unfamiliar with medical cannabis. UK doctors who prescribe medical cannabis must be GMC-registered and licenced. Patients can find GMC-registered specialists on the GMC’s website or through private medical cannabis providers. Make sure the specialist has experience treating the patient’s ailment and understands medicinal cannabis’ dangers and advantages. To ensure the specialist understands their situation, patients should provide full medical histories and records. Medical cannabis patients should collaborate with their doctors to monitor and adapt their treatment strategy.

What to expect during a consultation with a medical cannabis doctor

During a consultation with a medical cannabis doctor in the UK, you can expect to have your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plans reviewed by specialist clinicians. Based on this information, they will make a decision on whether cannabis based medicines could be a beneficial treatment option for you. This involves a discussion on the pros and cons of cannabis based medicine, as well as other cost effective cannabis medicines that may be available. It’s important to ask questions and raise any concerns you may have regarding the use of this class B drug. If the doctor does prescribe cannabis based medicine, they will explain how to obtain and utilise it securely, as the dosage and strain can vary by patient. To ensure proper therapy and therapeutic results, it’s essential to regularly check in with your medical cannabis doctor.

How to apply for a medical cannabis prescription

To apply for a medical cannabis prescription, patients will need to first visit a chosen clinic with General Medical Council-registered specialists who can prescribe cannabis based products. After an initial evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan, the specialist will determine if the use of controlled drugs is appropriate for the patient’s condition. If cannabis is deemed appropriate, the specialist will prepare a full application form that includes the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and other pertinent medical information. After submitting the application, the Secretary of State will carefully review it before granting approval. Medical cannabis prescriptions can only be filled at a specialist pharmacy after getting approval. It’s important to note that patients may need a follow-up consultation to ensure that the treatment plan is working correctly. Additionally, patients must meet strict conditions to receive a medicinal cannabis prescription in the UK, and it is not available through NHS prescriptions. It is also essential to understand that medical cannabis is a potentially risky treatment and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Finally, it’s important to note that food supplements and hemp oil are not the same as medical cannabis and are not included in the summary care record.

Understanding the cost of medical cannabis

Many variables affect medical cannabis prices. UK cannabis patients must consider many costs before obtaining the medicine. Patients in the UK must pay for cannabis-based therapies because the NHS does not cover them. Private prescriptions cost £150–250 per month in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In England, patients must pay for the private prescription and the medicine, which can be costly. Medical cannabis is expensive, however it depends on the type and number of appointments needed. Depending on the clinic or business, expert consultants or cannabis clinic consultants charge £150–£300 for consultations. Private medical insurance, which may cover medical cannabis treatments, may also be considered. When choosing medical cannabis, patients must consider their finances and the prospective expenditures.

Alternatives to medical cannabis for symptom management

Medical cannabis may help manage symptoms in some circumstances, but it may not work for everyone. Medical cannabis users have various alternatives. Opioids, a long-standing painkiller, are another option. Opioids have many hazards, including addiction and overdose. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin are non-opioid painkillers. Opioids have more negative effects and hazards than these drugs. Acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage are among alternatives. Working with a certified practitioner and weighing the risks and benefits before choosing a treatment can help manage pain and other symptoms. It’s crucial to engage with a healthcare practitioner to find the optimal symptom management option for each individual.

How to get a prescription for legal medical cannabis in the UK

UK medical cannabis prescriptions are complicated and time-consuming. Patients must first be registered with a medical cannabis-prescribed specialist. Private or NHS consultants can do this. To establish if medicinal cannabis is appropriate for their condition, patients must undergo a thorough medical evaluation. The specialist will analyse the patient’s medical history, medications, and cannabis sensitivities. The specialist must apply for a Home Office prescription licence after deciding medical cannabis is appropriate. The licence application must include a detailed treatment plan and documents supporting the specialist’s medicinal cannabis prescription. The specialist can prescribe the right cannabis substance and dose after the Home Office issues the licence. Medical cannabis is legal but not available on the NHS, thus patients must pay for private prescriptions. Obtaining a prescription for legal medical cannabis in the UK might be difficult, but with the support of a professional and patient determination, it can be a life-changing therapeutic choice for debilitating ailments.

Everything you need to know, including a step-by-step guide, for anyone interested in accessing a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK

A UK medical cannabis prescription requires multiple steps. First, you need a cannabis-treatable illness like chronic pain, epilepsy, or MS. After diagnosing this ailment, identify a licenced medicinal cannabis prescriber. This could be a neurologist, pain management doctor, or general practitioner with medicinal cannabis experience. Choose a doctor who understands medicinal cannabis’s pros and cons and the legal criteria for prescribing it. Patients should bring their medical history, present symptoms, and prescriptions. Patients must receive their medical cannabis from a licenced dispensary and follow their doctor’s instructions after receiving a prescription. Following these measures, UK patients can safely and effectively receive medicinal cannabis to manage their chronic diseases and improve their quality of life.

What conditions is cannabis prescribed for?

Medicinal cannabis treats chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. It also relieves chemotherapy-induced nausea and HIV/AIDS wasting syndrome. Cannabis reduces inflammation and is used to treat Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Cannabis may also alleviate anxiety and sadness, but further research is needed. But, medical cannabis is not a cure and should only be used as part of a full treatment plan by a certified healthcare expert. Medical cannabis is prescribed based on the patient’s needs and medical history.

What conditions qualify for a medicinal cannabis prescription in the UK?

UK medical cannabis prescriptions are limited to particular conditions. The government’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) created and revised the qualifying conditions list in 2018. In the UK, medicinal cannabis is prescribed for chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, epilepsy, stiffness from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, anxiety, PTSD, and Tourette’s syndrome. Medicinal cannabis should only be used as a last resort for certain diseases. Medical cannabis is prescribed on a case-by-case basis by a specialised expert who must be convinced that the benefits outweigh the risks and that no other viable treatment options exist. Because their composition and quality cannot be confirmed, over-the-counter and online cannabis-based products do not qualify for a prescription. Medical cannabis prescriptions should be obtained from a doctor who refers patients to an expert in cannabis-based medicine.

What happens at the consultation?

Expect to discuss your medical history and symptoms with a doctor. Being honest about your conditions can help the doctor decide if medical cannabis is right for you. Medical cannabis hazards and contraindications may also be assessed. A physical exam may also be part of the session. Your doctor will want to make sure you understand the risks and advantages of medical cannabis and any alternative treatment options. The consultation determines if medicinal cannabis is the best way to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

How to fund a private cannabis prescription

UK patients who want medical cannabis must pay for private prescriptions. Medical cannabis prices vary by product and dosage. Monthly medical cannabis costs £200–£500. Patients who need funding have several possibilities.

Zava offers cannabis-specific medical loans. With 0% APR, patients can pay for their prescriptions over months or years. Ask your medical cannabis clinic about financing possibilities.

The European Cannabis Association, Medical Cannabis Charity, and Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society can also help with funding. These organisations fund medical cannabis prescriptions for low-income individuals.

While purchasing a private cannabis prescription can be difficult, patients have various possibilities. Patients can get therapy and enhance their quality of life by researching financial options.

How do I know if I’m eligible for a prescription?

Medical cannabis is now permitted in the UK, but only in limited conditions. Before asking for a prescription, check your eligibility. Medical cannabis prescriptions are now reserved for patients with multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea or vomiting that have not responded to other treatments. The patient must also have tried and failed all other treatments for their ailment. Your doctor will decide if you can get a medical cannabis prescription, so be honest with them. Doctors don’t have to prescribe medical cannabis, and some may feel uncomfortable doing so. Since this is a new field of medicine in the UK, it’s important to keep up with advances and regulations.

Detailed Information about Medical Cannabis

What to expect from your appointment

Medical cannabis-authorized doctors will evaluate your medical history and symptoms during your session. The doctor will enquire about your past medications and their efficacy. They may perform a physical checkup and suggest additional testing to rule out any medical issues. Smoking and alcohol use can alter prescriptions, so be prepared to disclose them. If your doctor prescribes medical cannabis, they will provide you dose guidelines and suggest a dispensary. To get the greatest therapy, be honest throughout the appointment. To manage symptoms and improve quality of life, anticipate a full examination and tailored treatment plan.

What conditions are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK?

Medical cannabis can only be prescribed in certain circumstances in the UK, when conventional treatments have failed. Medical cannabis is only available for severe epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, multiple sclerosis-related muscle spasms, and some chronic pain problems. Doctors must be convinced that medical cannabis’s advantages outweigh its risks before prescribing it, and patients are regularly monitored to make sure it’s working properly and without side effects. Even for qualified ailments, getting a prescription can be difficult and requires careful compliance with UK medical cannabis laws. To obtain a legal medical cannabis prescription, patients may need to participate in clinical trials or seek treatment from private medical cannabis clinics. These clinics offer a range of cannabis-based medicines, and treatment costs vary depending on a number of circumstances. If you think medical cannabis could treat your disease, talk to your doctor or a specialist. They may recommend a referral to a private medical cannabis clinic for further evaluation and treatment.

Finding a medical cannabis clinic

Find a trustworthy UK medicinal cannabis clinic to get a prescription. Luckily, there are many clinic options. Your doctor may advise you or send you to a medical cannabis specialist. You can also search online for medical cannabis clinics that are CQC-regulated. Consultations and prescriptions might be expensive at some clinics. Moreover, read patient reviews and evaluate the clinic’s medical community reputation. Getting a medical cannabis prescription might be hard, but a respected clinic can help you get the finest care and treatment.

Where can you find a private clinic that supplies medical cannabis in the UK?

Medical cannabis is only authorised in limited instances in the UK, making it problematic. So, only particular doctors and specialists can prescribe it. Medical cannabis patients must have a real medical need that other medicines haven’t addressed. Medical cannabis is not prescribed on the NHS, thus patients must pay for treatment themselves or through private medical insurance. Private clinics may prescribe medical cannabis. The patient may need to do some research to discover a UK private clinic that offers medical cannabis, as there are only a few. Patients must schedule a consultation with their specialist at the facility. During the consultation, the doctor will assess the patient’s medical history and determine if medicinal cannabis is appropriate. If so, the doctor will recommend medical cannabis, which the patient can subsequently buy at a certified pharmacy. The Medical Cannabis Clinics, The Centre for Medicinal Cannabis, Greenlight Health, and Sapphire Medical Clinics are UK medical cannabis clinics. Some facilities charge significant fees, and not all insurance companies cover medicinal cannabis treatment.

What is the process to accessing a prescription?

UK medicinal cannabis prescriptions are more difficult than other drugs. See a medicinal cannabis-authorized specialist first. Pain, neurologist, or endocannabinoid specialists are options. They will evaluate the patient and decide if medical cannabis is a good treatment.

After prescribing medical cannabis, the specialist will apply for a Home Office licence. UK doctors who prescribe medical cannabis need this licence. Applying takes weeks or months. The specialist will also outline the medicinal cannabis, dose, and therapy length.

The specialist can prescribe medical cannabis if licenced. Not all UK pharmacies dispense medical cannabis. Patients may need specialised pharmacies. Medicinal cannabis is expensive and not covered by the NHS, therefore patients must pay for it.

Patients should understand UK medical cannabis laws before getting a prescription. Medicinal cannabis, a Schedule 2 drug, is heavily regulated, and patients who take it without a prescription can be prosecuted. Patients must use oils, pills, or vaporisers and cannot smoke medical cannabis.

Can my GP prescribe medical cannabis?

Can my doctor recommend cannabis?

UK Doctors cannot prescribe medical cannabis. They must be GMC-registered. GPs cannot register for this reason with the GMC. UK Doctors cannot prescribe medical cannabis.

Doctors can still prescribe medical cannabis. GPs can advise patients on medical cannabis use. Medical cannabis-experienced specialists might be referred by the Practitioner. Pain management, neurology, or palliative care specialists are possible. Patients can also self-refer to medicinal cannabis specialists.

Doctors can provide continuing medical assistance for medical cannabis patients, even if they can’t prescribe it. The Physician can check the patient’s overall health and address any additional medical issues.

UK Doctors cannot prescribe medical cannabis. They can refer patients to medicinal cannabis professionals or let patients self-refer. Doctors may also support medical cannabis patients.

How much will my cannabis prescription cost?

As of 2021, the cost of a UK medicinal cannabis prescription can vary significantly depending on the doctor’s prescription and dosage. Patients seeking relief from long term pain or psychiatric conditions may be required to pay upwards of £150 – £250 a month for both the drug and the doctor’s fees. Additionally, UK health insurance companies may not cover medicinal cannabis prescriptions, leaving patients to pay out of pocket. However, some private healthcare practitioners offer the Sapphire Access Scheme, which provides access to medicinal cannabis products at a discounted rate. Patients can inquire about this program during a video call consultation with a private healthcare practitioner or their insurance provider. While the cost of medicinal cannabis may be higher due to the expenses of producing, testing, and distributing it, many patients find the benefits to be worth the extra cost.

Will I get any follow-up consultations?

UK patients seeking medicinal cannabis prescriptions should know that therapy may require follow-up appointments. Your doctor may schedule regular appointments to check your progress and change your treatment strategy depending on your diagnosis and medical cannabis product. If you take medical cannabis for chronic pain or anxiety, this is especially true.

Follow-up visits may include evaluating symptoms, blood pressure, heart rate, drug adverse effects, and treatment issues. These consultations ensure your medical cannabis therapy is customised and effective.

Missed follow-up appointments might slow therapy and make it harder for your doctor to change your medication. Ask any therapy or medical cannabis product queries during follow-up visits. Your doctor will also explain medicinal cannabis’s benefits and hazards and any treatment plan adjustments.

Finally, UK medicinal cannabis treatment requires follow-up appointments. They help your doctor track your progress, alter your treatment, and deliver the best care. Attend all follow-up appointments and discuss concerns with your doctor.

Can a private doctor prescribe cannabis?

Private doctors in the UK can prescribe medical cannabis if they agree with it. Nonetheless, private doctors who administer cannabis-based therapies must follow the law.

A few UK private clinics can prescribe cannabis-based treatments. Clinics charge for consultations and cannabis treatment. Some experts argue these clinics overcharge people for NHS-free drugs.

Private doctors who prescribe cannabis-based treatments must be trained and follow criteria. Cannabis-based drugs should only be administered when other therapies fail and for a short time, according to the guidelines. Physicians must demonstrate the patient’s ailment and how cannabis-based therapies will treat it.

Private doctors provide faster medicinal cannabis prescriptions and specialised care. Private doctors may prescribe cannabis to non-NHS patients. Do your research and find a respected private clinic or doctor, as not all will have the required authorisation or experience to deliver the finest care.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about how to obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK

1. Q: Is medical cannabis legal in the UK? A: Yes, medical cannabis is legal in the UK. However, it is tightly regulated and can only be prescribed by a specialist doctor for specific medical conditions.

2. Q: What medical conditions can be treated with medical cannabis in the UK? A: Medical cannabis can be prescribed for specific medical conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and other conditions where traditional treatments have failed.

3. Q: How do I obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK? A: To obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK, you will need to speak to a specialist doctor who is registered with the General Medical Council. The doctor will assess your medical history and determine whether medical cannabis is appropriate for your condition.

4. Q: Can any doctor prescribe medical cannabis in the UK? A: No, only specialist doctors who are registered with the General Medical Council can prescribe medical cannabis in the UK.

5. Q: How much does medical cannabis cost in the UK? A: The cost of medical cannabis in the UK varies depending on the type and quantity of the medication. It is not currently available on the National Health Service (NHS) and must be paid for privately.

6. Q: What forms of medical cannabis are available in the UK? A: Medical cannabis is available in a variety of forms in the UK, including oils, capsules, and dried flowers. The form of medical cannabis prescribed will depend on the patient’s medical condition and personal preference.

7. Q: Is it safe to use medical cannabis? A: Like all medications, medical cannabis can have side effects. It is important to use medical cannabis under the guidance of a specialist doctor and to report any side effects to them. It is also important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while using medical cannabis.

How to get medical cannabis in the UK for your condition? The short answer

To obtain medical cannabis in the UK for your condition, you will need a General Medical Council-registered specialist doctor to prescribe it. The medication is only available for the treatment of epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. After evaluating your condition, the specialist doctor will determine if traditional treatments have failed and if medical cannabis is a suitable medication for you. You can access treatment by filling your prescription at a pharmacy. It is important to note that even though patients can possess and use medical cannabis, they cannot sell or distribute it due to the same laws that apply to other restricted substances. The specialist doctor may also schedule a follow-up consultation to ensure that the treatment is working effectively. Finally, it is recommended that you attend regular follow-up consultations to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment accordingly.

Step four: Choosing a pharmacy and paying for your prescription

Step four: Choosing a pharmacy and paying for your prescription
Once you have successfully obtained a legal medical cannabis prescription, the next step is to choose a pharmacy where you can purchase your prescribed products. It is important to do your research and find a licensed pharmacy that carries the specific type and strength of cannabis that has been prescribed to you. You can use resources such as the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) to find a list of pharmacies. Additionally, your doctor or support group may also be able to provide recommendations of trusted pharmacies. It is important to note that patients will need to pay for their prescriptions as they are not covered by the NHS. The price of cannabis products can vary depending on their type, strength, and markup from the drugstore. Additionally, it is crucial that only licensed pharmacies sell products to ensure safety, quality, and dosage accuracy. Lastly, after purchasing your products, make sure to stay in touch with both your doctor and pharmacist to assess the efficacy of the therapy and potential interactions with other medications listed in your medical records. It is important to only use legally prescribed cannabis and follow all guidelines set by your doctor and local police forces.

What happens when you are prescribed medical cannabis

Take your medical cannabis prescription to a licenced cannabis pharmacy. The pharmacist will help you choose the right product and dosage. Medicinal cannabis can be taken as oil, pill, tincture, or vapour. Your pharmacist will explain drug use and storage. Medical cannabis, like any drug, has side effects and risks. For many people with diverse medical issues, the benefits of this drug outweigh the hazards. Medical cannabis may improve your quality of life if you work with your healthcare team. Your doctor should always advise you on medicinal cannabis and other drugs.

Step three: Arrange an initial consultation

After researching medicinal cannabis prescribers, schedule an initial consultation with an NHS specialist trained in prescribing cannabis based products. This consultation determines your eligibility for medical cannabis treatment, especially in severe forms such as cancer pain, and is essential to getting a prescription. Drug Science can help you find a list of reputable prescribers in your area.

The prescriber will ask for your medical history, symptoms, and test findings during the appointment. They will next examine you and review your prescriptions, vitamins, and herbal therapies to see if they can be combined with medical cannabis.

To help the prescriber determine if medical cannabis is right for you, be honest throughout the appointment. If you are experiencing cancer pain, for example, make sure you mention it. To discuss the treatment with the prescriber, bring any questions or concerns.

After the consultation, the prescriber will decide if you should receive medical cannabis. If so, they will explore choices and prescribe if needed. If not, they’ll explain why medicinal cannabis isn’t right for you and offer alternatives.

Getting a medical cannabis prescription requires an initial meeting with a potential prescriber, especially if you are experiencing severe forms of pain such as cancer pain. Be honest, bring questions, and let the prescriber analyse your therapy suitability during the consultation. Medical cannabis may offer relief and a better quality of life if used properly.

Be open and honest about the treatments you’ve tried

UK medical cannabis prescriptions require honesty about previous treatments. Your doctor must know your current condition, medical history, and past treatments. This will help them decide if medicinal cannabis is right for you and which strains or products are best. Prescription drugs and physical therapy may have failed some people. These experiences and any alternative or complementary treatments should be disclosed. This includes natural therapies and supplements. Medical conditions and drugs can alter medicinal cannabis administration and efficacy, thus patients should disclose these. Being honest with your doctor can help you get safe, effective care that matches your requirements.

Do I need a referral for a medical cannabis prescription?

Medical cannabis prescriptions in the UK do not require a specialist recommendation. Most medical cannabis patients have tried alternative treatments for their illness. The patient must have a qualifying ailment for medical cannabis before the doctor can prescribe it. The patient’s medical history and current condition, including previous drugs and therapies, are examined during approval. After diagnosis, the prescribing clinician will decide if medical cannabis is appropriate. Not all doctors can prescribe medical cannabis, therefore patients may need a referral. UK GPs and specialised clinics can refer patients to specialists. Medical cannabis consultations and prescriptions can be costly. Before scheduling an appointment, check with your private health insurer to see if they pay this expense. While a referral is not required for a medical cannabis prescription, it may be beneficial if you are having trouble finding a clinician who prescribes medical cannabis.

What medical cannabis products might be prescribed?

Medical cannabis products are scarce in the UK. Specialist doctors can prescribe a few medical cannabis products under specified conditions. These goods include CBD, THC, or both. CBD treats anxiety, despair, and epilepsy. THC, however, is psychoactive and causes the marijuana “high.” But, it may reduce pain, inflammation, and nausea and vomiting. Oils, pills, and dried flower for smoking or vaping are medical cannabis products. Sativex, a cannabis-derived spasticity treatment for MS sufferers, comprises equal parts THC and CBD. Medical cannabis products must meet quality and safety criteria to be prescribed, and users should visit a doctor before using them.

How much does a medical cannabis prescription cost in the UK?

UK medical cannabis prescriptions cost differently depending on several criteria. First, medical cannabis isn’t covered by the NHS, therefore patients must pay for their prescription. UK medicinal cannabis prescriptions cost £200 to £700 per month, much more than most other drugs. Patients may also need to pay for specialist medical visits to get and renew their prescriptions. If you see a specialist often, these appointments might add up. Medical cannabis may require additional testing or screenings for some patients. Finally, examine medical cannabis prices. Patients may pay a few pounds to several hundred pounds a month for cannabis, depending on type and quantity. Medical cannabis prescription costs vary on your medical condition, treatment goals, and financial situation. Before choosing medical cannabis, consult your doctor and investigate the prices.

What is a ‘cannabis-based product for medicinal use’ (CBPM)?

The UK legalised cannabis-based therapeutic medicines in November 2018. These drugs are regulated like others. Medicinal cannabis-based products contain cannabis, cannabis resin, cannabinol, or a derivative. These products treat chronic pain, MS, epilepsy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Patients must have a medical ailment that has not responded to traditional therapy to get a cannabis-based product prescription. Doctors will only give these products as a last option when other therapies have failed or are unsuitable. Patients must also see a General Medical Council-licensed medicinal cannabis expert doctor. Cannabis-based therapeutic medications are not psychoactive like recreational cannabis.

Medical cannabis oils

Medicinal cannabis oils contain cannabinoids like THC and CBD (CBD). Tinctures, or oils, can be eaten or blended with food and drinks. Due to their convenience and precision, medical cannabis oils are a popular alternative to smoking cannabis. Medicinal cannabis oils treat chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. CBD-rich oils alleviate anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Medicinal cannabis oils may offer gentler and longer-lasting effects than smoking, and the cannabinoids can be altered to suit the patient. Medical cannabis oils may interact with other medications and cause negative effects, therefore patients should see their doctor before using them. After exhausting alternative treatments, a specialist doctor accredited with the General Medical Council and the Specialist Registry can prescribe medical cannabis oils in the UK. Medical cannabis oils can be purchased from licenced pharmacies under controlled drug laws.

What about cannabis based products available to buy without a prescription?

UK interest in medical cannabis has grown. Many patients want to try cannabis-based medications, but the legality of cannabis might make it hard for them to get the therapies they need. Notwithstanding this, the Kingdom sells cannabis-based goods without prescription. Oils, pills, and sprays are available online and in health food stores. These items may include medical cannabis components, but they are not regulated like prescription drugs. Their safety, efficacy, and components are generally unknown. Before using cannabis-based goods or unapproved treatments, see a doctor. Patients can get safe, controlled, and effective therapies for chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and other diseases by working with a competent doctor to get a medical cannabis prescription.

Access and share your patient notes

UK medical cannabis prescriptions require patient notes from medical professionals. Eligible patients should bring any relevant medical records to their medical professional during the follow-up consultation to help diagnose their issue. Electronic patient notes can be obtained from your GP to share with your specialist to ensure they have the complete picture of your condition. Accessing and sharing your patient notes allows your medical professional to create a thorough medical cannabis prescription plan. This process will often identify specific details such as chemotherapy-induced nausea or existing medications which may have an impact on treatment decisions. Open communication with both your GP and specialist is key to assessing your complete medical history and ensuring that the medical cannabis prescription is in your best interest.

Check if you are eligible

UK medical cannabis eligibility requires certain requirements. Initially, you must have an untreatable medical problem. Epilepsy, chronic pain, anxiety, and MS are examples. Before contemplating medical cannabis, your doctor should have exhausted all other options.

Medical cannabis is not for everyone. You must be 18 or older, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use cannabis. Medical cannabis may not be available if you’ve abused drugs.

Specialist doctors determine medical cannabis eligibility. These doctors are qualified to evaluate your medical condition and recommend medical cannabis treatment. They will examine your medical history, current medications, and symptom intensity before providing a recommendation.

To qualify for medical cannabis in the UK, you must be over 18, have a medical condition that has not responded to other therapies, and be reviewed by a qualified doctor. Medical cannabis may be prescribed if you meet these requirements.

Practical things to know as a medical cannabis patient

UK medical cannabis patients must consider various practicalities when getting and taking their prescription. First, medical cannabis is only prescribed if other treatments fail. This means you may need to try several doctors before finding one who can prescribe medical cannabis. You must carry a prescription and buy medication from a licenced pharmacy. Medical cannabis can have negative effects and interact with other prescriptions, so it’s important to inform your doctor of any health or medication changes. Finally, many countries do not have medical cannabis laws, so you must be careful when travelling abroad. You can get the greatest medical cannabis treatment while minimising dangers by staying informed and proactive.

Statistics about How to obtain a prescription for medical cannabis in the UK

1. As of March 2021, there were approximately 4,000 medical cannabis patients in the UK who had been prescribed medical cannabis by a specialist doctor. [1]
2. The average cost of medical cannabis in the UK is approximately £600 ($830) per month, which is not covered by the National Health Service (NHS). [2]
3. A survey of 1,000 UK doctors conducted in 2019 found that 80% of them had not received any training on medical cannabis and were therefore unlikely to prescribe it to their patients. [3]
4. In 2018, the UK government legalized medical cannabis but only a handful of prescriptions have been written due to strict regulations and a lack of education among doctors. [4]

References:

[1] “UK medical cannabis patients reveal their battle to get prescriptions,” The Guardian, March 2021. [https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/mar/08/uk-medical-cannabis-patients-reveal-their-battle-to-get-prescriptions]

[2] “The sky-high cost of medical cannabis in the UK,” BBC News, February 2021. [https://www.bbc.com/news/business-55901931]

[3] “UK doctors say they lack knowledge to prescribe cannabis,” The Guardian, July 2019. [https://www.theguardian.com/society/2019/jul/29/uk-doctors-say-they-lack-knowledge-to-prescribe-cannabis]

[4] “Medical cannabis: Why are doctors still not prescribing it?” BBC News, July 2019. [https://www.bbc.com/news/health-49151920]