Despite being legal in the UK since 2018, getting a medical cannabis prescription in the UK can still feel like a confusing, long-winded process; and certain elements, such as who can get a prescription, aren’t as clear as they could be. If medical cannabis is something that you’ve considered, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, so that you can make your own informed decision on whether it’s the right treatment for you.
Who can get a medical cannabis prescription in the UK?
Medical cannabis is currently only available on prescription for certain conditions, when other treatments have failed. To be eligible for medical cannabis, patients need to have tried at least two different types of medicine or treatment prescribed by a licensed professional, for the condition in which they are seeking cannabis. It’s also imperative that patients have no prior history of psychosis or schizophrenia.
Some of the more common conditions treated with prescription include:
Pain conditions, such as post-surgical pain, arthritis and cancer
Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, spasticity and epilepsy
Psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety, ADHD and Tourette’s syndrome
Other conditions, such as Chron’s disease, sleep disorders and endometriosis
This is not an exhaustive list, and the conditions eligible are regularly updated, but should give you an indication of whether or not medical cannabis may be available to you.
Unlike conventional medications, GPs cannot prescribe medical cannabis through the NHS, except in rare cases and for very specific conditions. Therefore, most prescriptions are issued by private specialist clinics and doctors. Said specialist will review your records to confirm that medical cannabis is the best option for you and that you don’t have any contraindications, as well as consulting with you to establish whether cannabis is a suitable treatment.
Obtaining a medical cannabis prescription – step-by-step
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Before seeking a prescription, ensure you meet these basic requirements:
You have a diagnosed condition that could be treated with medical cannabis.
You have tried at least two other conventional treatments without success.
You have relevant medical records available to confirm your condition.
If you’re unsure, we offer a free eligibility assessment to help you determine if you qualify.
Step 2: Book a consultation with a specialist
Because medical cannabis is a controlled substance, only a specialist doctor (not a GP) can prescribe it. This is usually done through a private medical cannabis clinic.
During your consultation, the specialist will review your medical history and past treatments, whilst discussing potential benefits and risks of medical cannabis. Based on the information established, they will then determine the best product and dosage for your needs.
The consultation can be done via video call, making it convenient and in the comfort of your own home. Throughout the process, our support team is always on hand for any questions you may have.
Step 3: Prescription approval and ordering medication
If the specialist determines that medical cannabis is appropriate for you, you will be issued a private prescription. This will then be reviewed by the clinic’s disciplinary team across multiple factions to ensure compliance with regulations.
Once approved, your prescription will be sent to a licensed specialist pharmacy, which will dispense and deliver your medication directly to your home. The frequency in which you receive your prescription is determined by a number of factors, including your condition and required dosage.
Step 4: Monitoring and following up
After starting a medical cannabis prescription, you’ll need to attend follow-up consultations with a clinician in order to review your progress and adjust dosage if needed. This also gives the opportunity to discuss any side effects or concerns, and renew your prescription if it’s effective for you.
These follow-ups are typically required every 1-3 months, but a specialist will be in touch with information throughout.
The Cost of Medical Cannabis in the UK
Since medical cannabis is not widely available on the NHS, patients must pay privately. Costs can vary but typically include an initial consultation, follow-up consultations, and prescription costs – which depend on frequency and dosage. *insert pricing*
How to Choose a Reputable Medical Cannabis Clinic
If you’re considering medical cannabis treatment, be sure to stay on the right side of safety and legality, by choosing a clinic that:
- Is CQC-registered (Care Quality Commission)
- Has qualified specialists and a reputable network of doctors
- Offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Provides ongoing patient support
If there’s anything that you’re unsure of throughout the process, our dedicated team are always on hand to answer any enquiries or uncertainties that you may have. Just visit our FAQs to learn more or our get in touch page to send us a message.
