In recent years, the UK has seen significant changes in the medical use of cannabis. Since 2018, medical cannabis- also known as Cannabis-Based Products for Medicinal Use (Unlicensed CBPMs) – has been legally available with a specialist doctor’s prescription.
For individuals with specific health conditions who meet the eligibility criteria, CBPMs may be considered an option for symptom management under medical guidance.
The Basics of Medical Cannabis (CBPMs)
The term Cannabis-Based Products for Medicinal Use (CBPMs) refers to medical cannabis products derived from the cannabis plant, prescribed specifically for therapeutic purposes.
The cannabis plant contains many compounds, with the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate key functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, and pain.
- THC is known for its psychoactive effects, meaning it can produce a “high”. For medical use, it is used to support patients with pain management, nausea reduction, and appetite stimulation – and has been used for this purpose in many cultures around the world for thousands of years.
- CBD is non-psychoactive and often chosen for its calming properties.
Why Medical Cannabis?
Unlike recreational cannabis, medical cannabis is prescribed based on a specialist doctor’s assessment of a patient’s individual needs.
- CBPM products must meet strict Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards to ensure quality, safety, and consistency.
- Our cultivation team follows rigorous compliance and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the highest standards.
- Before reaching patients, all products are tested in a lab to verify cannabinoid content, purity, and safety.
Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual patient, ensuring that dosage, format (e.g., flower or oil), and frequency are selected based on medical needs.
How Does Medical Cannabis Work?
The key to understanding medical cannabis lies in the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is a complex network of receptors throughout the body that helps maintain balance (homeostasis) across many physiological processes, including:
✔ Pain relief
✔ Mood and stress regulation
✔ Sleep cycle maintenance
✔ Appetite and digestion
✔ Immune system response
THC and CBD: How They Interact with the ECS
- THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, which may contribute to pain relief, reduced nausea, and appetite stimulation.
- CBD works indirectly, supporting the ECS by reducing enzyme activity, which prolongs the body’s natural endocannabinoids.
These interactions are why medical cannabis is being explored for conditions related to chronic pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect is a theory in cannabis science suggesting that cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), terpenes, and other plant compounds work synergistically to enhance therapeutic effects.
Rather than acting alone, each compound contributes to the overall effectiveness of medical cannabis. For example:
- THC and CBD together may balance psychoactive effects while enhancing pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Terpenes (aromatic compounds found in cannabis) may further influence effects, such as promoting relaxation or alertness.
This synergy is why some whole-plant medical cannabis products are preferred over isolated compounds, as they maintain a broader profile of cannabinoids and terpenes.
How to Access Medical Cannabis: Step-by-Step
Accessing medical cannabis in the UK follows a structured process:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
✔ Complete a quick online questionnaire about your health and condition.
✔ A licensed clinic will evaluate the information to assess whether medical cannabis could be an appropriate treatment option.
Step 2: Provide Consent
✔ Patients may consent via the eligibility form for the clinic to access NHS records.
✔ Alternatively, patients may request their Summary of Care from a GP for faster processing.
✔ In England, patients can also securely link their NHS account for record access.
Step 3: Book and Hold Your Appointment
✔ Schedule a virtual consultation with a specialist from the General Medical Council Specialist Register.
✔ Discuss your condition, treatment history, and whether medical cannabis may benefit you.
✔ If approved, prescriptions are arranged via a licensed CQC clinic for convenient home delivery.
Cautions and Considerations
Like any prescription medicine, unlicensed CBPMs come with guidelines and considerations:
⚠ Eligibility restrictions – Medical cannabis is not suitable for everyone, and pre-existing conditions or medications may affect suitability.
⚠ Not widely available on the NHS – Most medical cannabis prescriptions in the UK are issued privately.
⚠ Monitoring and follow-ups – Ongoing consultations ensure that dosage and treatment plans remain appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Medical cannabis is a regulated treatment option that interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to support symptom management for eligible patients.
With an individualised approach, specialist doctors prescribe unlicensed CBPMs based on medical need, prior treatments, and patient health history. If you think you might be eligible, why not fill in our questionnaire?