Medical Uses of Cannabis

Despite its legalisation in the UK in 2018, many people remain unaware of medical cannabis and its potential benefits.  As attitudes and regulations around cannabis continue to evolve, more people are discovering its potential benefits for managing a variety of health conditions. 

Whether you're curious about how it can potentially aid in pain management, enhance symptom relief, or improve overall quality of life, we’re here to guide you through the essentials, and dive into some possible medical cannabis uses. We'll clarify the UK law, break down what medical cannabis is and how it's used, and explain the routes to accessing a medical cannabis prescription in the UK. 

Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available in the UK when prescribed by a specialist doctor through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf. You can find out if you’re eligible for a medical cannabis prescription by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.

‍Please note: Cannabis-based medicines are prescription-only medicines. They may not be suitable for everyone, and eligibility is determined by independent clinical assessment. Treatment is not first-line and outcomes vary; benefits are not guaranteed, and side effects and risks exist.

Medical Uses of Cannabis in the UK: What You Need to Know

The first question you might ask when considering medical cannabis is, is cannabis legal in the UK? The answer is, yes and no. 

In the UK, cannabis is a Class B drug and is illegal to possess or consume without a prescription. Although most people are aware of the legality around its recreational use, many still don’t know medical cannabis was legalised in 2018 when prescribed and consumed under specialist supervision in the UK. 

The NHS currently prescribes cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, multiple sclerosis (MS). However, cannabis medical uses can vary to treat a wide range of different conditions beyond these and can be accessed through private clinics in the UK, like Alternaleaf. 

What Conditions May Medical Cannabis Be Considered For?

Medical Cannabis for Epilepsy 

Epilepsy is a condition that causes sudden seizures and fits. Epidiolex, a cannabis-based product currently prescribed in the UK to treat epilepsy, has been found to significantly reduce the number of seizures experienced by patients. 

Medical Cannabis for Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting 

One of the most debilitating side effects of chemotherapy is severe nausea and vomiting, known as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Medical cannabis has been found to alleviate these symptoms and ease side effects for those going through chemotherapy.

Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) 

MS is an incurable condition affecting the brain and nerves. Common symptoms of MS are muscle stiffness and spasms (spasticity). Studies have shown that products like Sativex (nabiximols) can help reduce the frequency and severity of muscle spasms which can drastically improve the quality of life for those living with MS. 

Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain 

Medical cannabis may help with chronic pain, inflammation, sleep, and mood, depending on individual response. This could help ease the side effects for patients suffering from a wide range of chronic conditions. 

Keep in mind, when it comes to medical cannabis for pain, medical cannabis for anxiety, medical cannabis for sleep, or any other condition, prescribing decisions are made by specialist doctors.

Potential Benefits of Medical Cannabis

Research suggests cannabinoids may potentially help manage symptoms such as pain, sleep difficulties, anxiety, and muscle spasticity in certain cases. Let’s explore: 

Better Pain Management 

Medical cannabis is widely recognised for its effectiveness in alleviating chronic pain because of how it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce pain signals in the body. It can be prescribed for endometriosis, fibromyalgia, arthritis, MS pain and chemotherapy-induced pain. 

Further Symptom Relief 

As well as potentially helping with pain management, medical cannabis can also be used to manage the symptoms of a number of mental health and neurological conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression and PTSD. By potentially helping to reduce stress levels and inflammation as well as improving sleep and concentration, medical cannabis can possibly help patients both physically and neurologically. 

Improving Quality of Life 

By managing pain and easing various symptoms, medical cannabis can potentially improve the overall quality of life for patients. It may enhance mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep patterns. The potential benefits of medical cannabis can lead to better physical and mental health, allowing patients to engage more fully in daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life. 

How Is Medical Cannabis Used or Consumed?

There are many different types of medical cannabis, allowing patients to discuss with their clinician to find a form that is right for them. The effects and experience varies with each type and can be tailored to individual needs. 

Common forms include oils, capsules, or prescribed dried flower for vaporisation. What you are prescribed will depend on your clinicians recommendation. It’s important to consume in line with clinical guidance for safety and effectiveness.

Inhaling Medical Cannabis 

Prescribed dried flower can be inhaled using a vaporiser. This method provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain or nausea. Doctors will always recommend using a dry herb vaporiser, as smoking can irritate the lungs, while vaping is considered a less harmful alternative.

Applying under the tongue (sublingually) 

Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream through the sublingual gland. One of the benefits of medical cannabis oil use is that it provides a fast onset, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, offers a discreet and controlled dosage and tends to provide longer-lasting relief when compared to inhalation.

Topical Application 

Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. This method does not produce psychoactive effects, making it suitable for patients seeking relief from conditions like arthritis or muscle pain and also provides relief without inhalation or ingestion. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. However, there are a number of topical cannabis based products that are available over the counter.

Possible Side Effects of Medical Cannabis

● Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Cannabis can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, especially in new users, due to its impact on blood pressure and the central nervous system. 

● Dry Mouth: Also known as "cottonmouth," cannabis can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry, uncomfortable sensation in the mouth. 

● Increased Appetite: Commonly referred to as the "munchies," cannabis often increases appetite. This can be beneficial for patients needing to gain weight but may be an unwanted side effect for others. 

● Red Eyes: Cannabis can cause blood vessels in the eyes to expand, resulting in noticeable redness, because of the way it affects blood pressure and circulation. 

● Fatigue and Drowsiness: Cannabis can induce feelings of fatigue and drowsiness, making it important to avoid activities that require alertness after consumption if a specific form or strain impacts you in this way.

Keep in mind the above side effects can vary between individuals, but usually go away on their own. If they persist, or bother you, speak to your clinician. For more information on side effects, head to our FAQ page. 

How to Access Medical Cannabis in the UK

1. Find out if you’re eligible 

Complete our quick and easy questionnaire to find out if you’re eligible for medical cannabis. You don’t need to be referred by your GP. Medical cannabis can be prescribed through a private clinic. You’ll just need a diagnosis of a qualifying condition which hasn’t been improved by other treatments, or where the treatments have resulted in negative side effects. 

2. Consultation with a Specialist 

You’ll have an online video appointment with a clinical expert in medical cannabis where you’ll discuss your condition, symptoms and medical history. You’ll be assessed by a specialist doctor and receive a prescription where clinically appropriate. 

3. Follow up care 

We’ll check-in with you to make sure medical cannabis continues to be the right option for you and is still clinically appropriate, as well as to answer any questions you may have.

Legal Considerations for Medical Cannabis

Cannabis-based medicines have been legal for specialist prescription in the UK since 2018 but remain tightly regulated.

Legal Possession and Use 

You must adhere to the prescribed dosage and usage instructions. Possessing medical cannabis without a valid prescription or using it outside of the prescribed guidelines is illegal and can result in legal consequences. For example, smoking your prescription instead of vaporising, as instructed by your doctor is illegal.

Travelling with Medical Cannabis 

If you plan to travel with medical cannabis, be aware of both UK and international regulations. The legal status and regulations around medical cannabis vary by country, and you must ensure compliance with local laws at your destination. 

Documentation and evidence

Always carry your prescription and any necessary documentation when travelling or when visiting healthcare providers to avoid legal complications. It is important to keep your medication in the original packaging that is provided, this contains important information such as your pharmacy label with details that are personal to your prescription.

The Future of Medical Cannabis Research

Research into cannabis-based medicines continues to develop as more clinical studies and patient data become available.

The future of medical cannabis is full of promise and potential. As scientific research continues to uncover its therapeutic benefits, more patients are finding relief through its use and have easier access to life-changing remedies. The evolving legal landscape is gradually becoming more accommodating, which in turn should help to shift attitudes towards medical cannabis. 

With increasing support from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public, the integration of medical cannabis into mainstream medicine gives patients more options for managing their health conditions, leading to improved quality of life and well-being for all. 

Risks and Drug Interactions

There may be potential risks and drug interactions to consider when using cannabis-based products, particularly with medicines such as warfarin, as well as with sedatives or alcohol, which can affect how substances are processed in the body. 

Public health guidance highlights that cannabis can interact with other medicines, meaning effects may change when used together. Because individual responses can vary,it’s best to always discuss any potential interactions with a qualified healthcare professional. Tell your clinician about any existing medication you’re on - if any - and they can advise accordingly. 

FAQs

What is medical cannabis used for?

In the UK, medical cannabis can be prescribed by specialist doctors for a number of conditions. To be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription with private clinics like Alternaleaf, you’ll need a diagnosis of a qualifying condition and evidence of being offered at least two conventional treatments for that condition or associated symptoms. 

Is medical cannabis addictive?

Recreational cannabis use can be associated with dependence in some people, although this can vary depending on the individual and the context of use. Following your clinicians guidance and consuming as prescribed should ensure safe and effective use. 

Summary

If you’re considering medical cannabis, the best thing to do is seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.