In 2018 the UK government changed the law so doctors can prescribe unlicensed cannabis medicines. Specialists registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) who work in certain fields can legally prescribe Cannabis Based Medicinal Products (CBMPs).
General practitioners (GPs) cannot currently prescribe CBMPs, but they can refer patients to a private specialist if they think it’s in the patient’s best interest.
Specialist doctors must follow criteria set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), as required by the Home Office, before they can prescribe cannabis products. NHS specialists are generally not authorised to prescribe these products unless a patient’s condition is extremely severe, because NICE has not given broad permission.
NHS prescriptions may be given for:
– Severe forms of epilepsy that respond to cannabinoids
– Nausea or vomiting caused by chemotherapy
– Muscle stiffness or spasticity from multiple sclerosis (MS)
Private prescriptions and eligibility
Private clinics and specialist cannabis clinics in the UK can prescribe cannabis-based products for a wider range of conditions. A private prescription is normally considered when:
– The clinician believes it’s in the patient’s best interest
– A registered medical or healthcare professional has confirmed the diagnosis
– The patient has tried at least two conventional medicines without success
Common conditions people receive private cannabis prescriptions for
People who get private prescriptions often have conditions such as:
– Anorexia
– Anxiety
– Joint inflammation (arthritis)
– Respiratory conditions that affect breathing
– Autism spectrum disorder
– Back and spinal problems
– Cancer
– Nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy
– Chronic pain and widespread pain
– Chronic inflammation
– Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
– Colitis and chronic inflammatory bowel disease
– Depression
– Diverticulitis
– Movement disorders and abnormal muscle movements
– Epilepsy and seizure disorders
– Frozen shoulder or reduced shoulder mobility
– Gout
– Severe headaches or migraines
– Menopause symptoms
– Nerve pain and neuropathies
– End-of-life care
– Parkinson’s disease
– Muscle pain and stiffness
– Rheumatoid arthritis
– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Chronic inflammatory arthritis
– Sleep problems
– Muscle stiffness and tremors
Conditions specialist doctors usually won’t prescribe for
Specialists generally avoid prescribing cannabis-based medicines for some psychiatric conditions, because there is strong evidence that THC can make these conditions worse. These include:
– Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders
– Bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness)
This list isn’t exhaustive. Always speak with your doctor before changing any mental health treatment.
Talking to medical professionals about cannabis
Patients new to cannabis can feel unsure because the law, product types, and dosing can be confusing. Specialist doctors who prescribe cannabis have training in both their medical field and in CBMPs.
Ask lots of questions during your consultation to understand whether cannabis is right for you. If, during the 30-minute appointment, you or the clinician feel cannabis is not suitable, that may affect the chances of getting a prescription.
Many people who qualify for medicinal cannabis have tried recreational or previous medical cannabis and found it helped. If you’ve used cannabis before, tell your specialist—details like strain names, how often you took it, and which symptoms improved can help the doctor choose the most appropriate option.
Do I need a medical cannabis card to get a prescription in the UK?
No. You don’t need a medical cannabis card to get a CBMP prescription from a doctor in the UK. If you choose Releaf as your clinic, you will receive a photo ID card with a QR code linking to your digital prescription history.
The UK system for medical cannabis is more tightly regulated than in the USA, with stricter limits on prescribing and production.
Can UK doctors prescribe CBD?
Yes. Doctors who prescribe cannabis-based medicines can also prescribe cannabidiol (CBD). Specialists may prescribe CBD for inflammatory conditions, seizures, spasms, and tremors. CBD products can be prescribed as flower or oil tinctures. You’ll need to see a specialist first—an eligibility assessment will confirm whether you qualify for medical cannabinoids.
Can medical cannabis be prescribed for autism?
Adults diagnosed with autism may be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription, but they usually need to have tried two treatments before meeting the criteria.
Can medical cannabis be prescribed for arthritis?
Yes—medical cannabis can be prescribed for arthritis in the UK if you have a confirmed diagnosis and have tried two different medicines, therapies, or treatments without sufficient benefit.
Is medical cannabis legal in the UK?
Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since November 1, 2018. GMC-registered doctors can issue prescriptions through private clinics. We offer a complete medical cannabis prescription package designed to make the process simple and straightforward.
In brief
Each patient is assessed individually. Speaking with a specialist who can prescribe cannabis-derived medicines is the best way to find out if a prescription might help your condition or symptoms.
Don’t let negative views about medicinal cannabis stop you from seeking the right treatment. Releaf provides personalised monthly packages, expert medical cannabis consultations, and a secure medical cannabis card to support your prescribed treatment plan.