Question 1

Is medical cannabis legal in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, medical cannabis is legal in the UK. It has been legal since November 2018 when cannabis-based medicinal products were reclassified to Schedule 2, allowing specialist doctors to prescribe them.

Question 2

How do I get a medical cannabis prescription in the UK?

Accepted Answer

To get a medical cannabis prescription in the UK, you need to be assessed by a specialist doctor at a licensed private clinic. Your GP cannot prescribe it, but can provide a referral letter.

Question 3

Can I get medical cannabis on the NHS?

Accepted Answer

Medical cannabis is available on the NHS only for a very small number of conditions: severe treatment-resistant epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis. For most conditions, it is only available privately.

Question 4

What medical conditions qualify for cannabis treatment in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Medical cannabis can be prescribed for a wide range of conditions in the UK, including chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, ADHD, insomnia, and cancer-related symptoms.

Question 5

Is CBD the same as medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

No, CBD products available on the high street are not the same as prescribed medical cannabis. Medical cannabis is a regulated, prescription-only medicine with specific THC/CBD ratios, while CBD is an over-the-counter food supplement.

Question 6

Is medical cannabis safe? What are the side effects?

Accepted Answer

When prescribed and monitored by a specialist doctor, medical cannabis is considered safe for most patients. Common side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and changes in appetite. Self-medication with unregulated cannabis carries significantly higher risks.

Question 7

How much does medical cannabis cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Medical cannabis costs in the UK typically include an initial consultation fee (£50–£200) and ongoing prescription costs (£100–£400+ per month depending on the product and dosage). It is not generally available on the NHS.

Question 8

Do I need a GP referral to access medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

You do not strictly need a GP referral to access medical cannabis through a private clinic, but a referral letter and your medical records are strongly recommended as they help the specialist doctor assess your eligibility.

Question 9

Can I travel abroad with my medical cannabis prescription?

Accepted Answer

Travelling within the UK with your medical cannabis prescription is permitted. Travelling abroad is more complex — you must check the laws of your destination country, as UK prescriptions are not automatically recognised internationally.

Question 10

What are my rights as a medical cannabis patient at work?

Accepted Answer

As a medical cannabis patient, you have the right to take your prescribed medication. If your underlying condition qualifies as a disability under the Equality Act 2010, your employer may be required to make reasonable adjustments.

Question 11

Is there in-person support available for medical cannabis patients in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Medcann Connect Centre in London is the UK's only physical medical cannabis patient community hub, offering in-person support, education, legal guidance, wellbeing services, and community events.

Question 12

What is the Medcann Connect Centre?

Accepted Answer

The Medcann Connect Centre is the UK's first and only physical medical cannabis patient community hub, located in London. It provides patient education, support, legal guidance, community events, and wellbeing services.

Medical Cannabis FAQ