Why Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK?

Recreational cannabis is illegal in the UK, which means anyone using it for conditions like chronic pain or epilepsy is taking a risk with untested, unregulated products. But there’s a better option: a medical cannabis prescription.

Prescribed by a specialist, medical cannabis is tested, regulated, and could ease symptoms for specific conditions. Some may still wonder, though: why choose a prescription over recreational use? And how do you get one in the first place?

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Is There a Difference Between Recreational Weed and Medical Cannabis?

At first glance, unregulated cannabis may seem like a more convenient option as there are no limits on how much you can buy. But in the UK, recreational cannabis is illegal (and it isn’t lab-tested), meaning anything outside the medical cannabis prescription system comes with serious risks.

Medical cannabis, on the other hand, is prescribed by a qualified Specialist and follows strict guidelines. It’s carefully dosed to treat specific conditions, and you’re getting a product that’s legal, reliable, and designed to work for you.

Treating your condition with unregulated cannabis may seem easier, but without proper testing or dosage controls, it’s a gamble not just with your health, but with the law, too.

Is Getting a UK Medical Cannabis Prescription Hard?

Getting a medical cannabis prescription in the UK is possible, but it’s not always straightforward. According to Nice guidelines, medical cannabis treatment should only be considered where there is an unmet clinical need. Cannabis can be used to treat symptoms related to:

• Aggressive Behavior
• Anorexia
• Anxiety
• Arthritis
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Atypical Facial Pain​
• Autism (ASD)
• Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Dementia
• Depression
• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Fibromyalgia​
• Headaches & Migraine
• Insomnia
• Joint Pain​
• Palliative Care
• Parkinson's Disease
• Peripheral Neuropathy​
• Post-Herpetic Neuralgia​
• Sciatica
• Sleep Disorders
• Spinal Pain
• Tourette's Syndrome

While GPs can’t prescribe medical cannabis directly, they can refer you to a Specialist who can assess your eligibility. Private clinics also offer consultations for those seeking a prescription, though these services often come at a cost.

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Can I Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription From My Doctor?

If you’re considering medical cannabis, the first step is to complete an eligibility form and meet with a Specialist to see if you qualify. 

Here’s what to expect:

1. Discuss Your Condition: Be prepared to explain how your condition affects you and what treatments you’ve already tried.
2. Speak with a Specialist: The Specialist will review your case and decide if medical cannabis is a suitable option.
3. If Approved: You and your Specialist will agree on outcome measures and discuss your personalised care plan.

Keep in mind, NHS prescriptions are extremely rare, and private clinics are another option to explore.

Is Medical Cannabis Synthetic or Natural?

Most medical cannabis in the UK comes from the natural cannabis plant. Its cannabinoids are used in regulated, prescription-only products. 

In some cases, synthetic options like Nabilone (a lab-made cannabinoid) are prescribed for nausea caused by chemotherapy. But synthetic options are exceptions, not the norm.

What Are the Risks of Recreational Weed in the UK?

Recreational cannabis is illegal in the UK, so consuming it comes with serious risks. Because it’s unregulated, you can’t be sure what you’re getting. It could be contaminated, cut with harmful substances, or have unpredictable levels of THC that can cause significant side effects.

Street cannabis is often stronger than expected, which can lead to a higher likelihood of developing dependency or undesirable symptoms like anxiety and/or psychosis. If you’re caught with recreational cannabis, you could face fines or criminal charges.

Medical cannabis prescribed by a Specialist is tested, regulated, and the only legal way to access cannabis for symptom relief.

Are There Legal Protections for Cannabis Patients in the UK?

Yes, patients with a medical cannabis prescription are protected under UK law. For example, the Metropolitan Police have made it clear that if you can prove your prescription, you won’t face penalties for using medical cannabis.

Employers are also required to make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, which could include allowing you to use prescribed cannabis at work. Just make sure to disclose your prescription, especially if your job involves driving or operating machinery.

Can I Get Medical Cannabis on Prescription in the UK?

Yes, but it’s typically only prescribed when other treatments have failed. NHS prescriptions are rare, so most patients access medical cannabis through private clinics.

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How Much Is a Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK?

Private prescriptions typically cost between £50 and £200 per month, depending on the clinic and treatment. 

Can You Get a Medical Cannabis Card in the UK?

The UK doesn’t issue official medical cannabis cards, but some private clinics provide ID cards to help patients prove their prescription status.

Can You Get Medical Cannabis for Anxiety in the UK?

Yes, medical cannabis can be prescribed for anxiety. If you have questions, speak with a Specialist to discuss your symptoms and other treatments you have tried.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.