INDEPENDENT UK PATIENT INFORMATION
Cannabis-based medicines
in the UK.
Cannabis-based medicines are prescription-only treatments. They are considered through a clinical process, not sold as ordinary consumer cannabis products.
WHAT THE TERM MEANS
A medicine, not a retail product.
“Medical cannabis” is a broad term for cannabis-based medicine used to relieve symptoms. In the UK, lawful medicinal products containing controlled cannabinoids require a prescription. Products sold online or described as cannabis oils are not automatically legal, regulated or medically appropriate.
The NHS says cannabis-based medicine is likely to benefit only a small number of patients and that a specialist discusses other treatment options before considering it. Private assessment routes can differ from NHS access, but the decision must still be made for the individual by an appropriately qualified clinician.
WHAT A SPECIALIST CONSIDERS
Your full history matters.
Diagnosis and symptoms
The clinician needs an accurate account of the diagnosed condition, current symptoms, severity, duration and effect on daily life.
Previous treatments
Previous conventional medicines and recognised therapies are reviewed, including dose, duration, benefit, side effects and why each option was stopped or judged unsuitable.
Individual risks
Current medicines, physical and mental-health history, substance use, pregnancy or breastfeeding, driving and work-safety responsibilities can all affect suitability.
POTENTIAL SUITABILITY AND LIMITATIONS
Assessment never guarantees prescribing.
Having an ongoing condition or having tried previous conventional treatments does not by itself mean a cannabis-based medicine is suitable. A clinician may recommend a different treatment, request records or further investigation, or decide that the potential harms outweigh the possible benefits.
Evidence and licensed uses vary by condition and product. Possible adverse effects can include dizziness, tiredness, mood or behavioural changes, feeling high, hallucinations and interactions with other medicines. Products containing THC can also carry risks of psychosis and dependence. Any prescribed treatment requires clinical monitoring.
NHS medical cannabis guidance
Prescription access, other treatments, side effects, interactions and possession.
Read NHS guidance ↗Specialist Assessment
Return to the neutral explanation of records, treatment history and clinical decision-making.
Review the assessment pathway →OPTIONAL NEXT STEP
Decide whether you want to ask for an independent assessment.
Continue only if you want Releaf to review the information you provide. Releaf’s clinical team decides whether an assessment proceeds and what treatment, if any, is appropriate.