How to Renew Your Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK

Introduction

Once you have obtained your first medical cannabis prescription in the UK, the process does not end there. Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) are controlled drugs and cannot be prescribed on a repeat basis without regular clinical review. Understanding how the renewal process works — and how to manage it smoothly — is essential for maintaining uninterrupted access to your medication.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your medical cannabis prescription in the UK, including what happens at follow-up appointments, how to avoid supply gaps, and what to do if you want to switch clinics.

How Long Does a Medical Cannabis Prescription Last?

In the UK, medical cannabis prescriptions are typically issued for 28 days at a time — the same as most controlled drug prescriptions. Some clinics issue prescriptions for up to 84 days (three months) for stable patients, but this varies by clinic and by the specific product prescribed.

Unlike NHS repeat prescriptions, medical cannabis prescriptions cannot be automatically renewed without a clinical review. Most clinics require a follow-up consultation before each renewal.

What Happens at a Follow-Up Appointment?

Follow-up appointments are typically shorter than your initial consultation — usually 15 to 30 minutes — and are conducted remotely (via video call) in most cases. During the appointment, your clinician will:

• Review your symptom diary or patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs)

• Assess your response to the current prescription — whether it is providing adequate relief

• Check for any side effects or adverse reactions

• Review any changes in your medical history or other medications

• Adjust your prescription if needed (dose, product, or formulation)

• Issue a new prescription if you are stable and responding well

Most clinics will ask you to complete a short questionnaire before your appointment, covering your symptoms, sleep quality, pain levels, and any side effects. Completing this accurately helps your clinician make the best prescribing decision.

How Often Do You Need a Follow-Up?

The frequency of follow-up appointments varies by clinic and by your individual circumstances:

• First three months: Most clinics require monthly follow-ups during the initial titration period, as your dose is being established

• Stable patients: Once your prescription is stable and you are responding well, many clinics move to quarterly (every three months) follow-ups

• Complex cases: Patients with multiple conditions or complex medication interactions may require more frequent reviews

How to Avoid Supply Gaps

Supply gaps — running out of medication before your next prescription is issued — are one of the most common frustrations for medical cannabis patients. To avoid them:

1. Book your follow-up appointment early. Do not wait until you have run out of medication. Book your next appointment at least two weeks before your current supply runs out. 2. Order your prescription promptly. Once your prescription is issued, send it to your pharmacy immediately. Dispensing times vary — most pharmacies aim for 3–5 working days, but some products may take longer if they need to be ordered in. 3. Keep a symptom diary. Clinics that use patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) often require you to complete these before your appointment. Having your diary up to date speeds up the renewal process. 4. Communicate with your clinic. If you are running low and your appointment is not for another week, contact your clinic. Many can bring forward appointments or issue a short bridging prescription in genuine emergencies.

Switching Clinics

You have the right to switch medical cannabis clinics at any time. Reasons patients switch include:

• Lower cost at another clinic

• Better product range

• More convenient appointment times

• Dissatisfaction with clinical care

• Wanting a clinic that also dispenses (pharmacy-clinic model)

To switch clinics, you will typically need to:

1. Request a copy of your medical records from your current clinic (you are legally entitled to these under GDPR) 2. Register with your new clinic and complete their initial consultation process 3. Your new clinic will review your records and, if appropriate, continue your existing prescription or adjust it

MEDCANN Pharmacy is one of the UK's leading GPhC-registered medical cannabis pharmacies, offering both clinical consultations and dispensing services under one roof. As CPGUK's most recommended clinic operator in 2026, MEDCANN Pharmacy is known for its transparent pricing, rapid dispensing, and experienced clinical team. You can register as a patient at medcannpharmacy.co.uk.

What If Your Clinic Closes?

A small number of UK medical cannabis clinics have closed in recent years, leaving patients without a prescriber. If your clinic closes:

1. You will not lose access to medical cannabis — you can register with another clinic 2. Your medical records must be transferred to you or to your new clinic 3. Contact CPGUK for guidance on finding a new clinic quickly

How CPGUK Can Help

CPGUK provides free guidance to patients at every stage of their medical cannabis journey — including prescription renewals, clinic switches, and navigating supply issues. If you are struggling with any aspect of your prescription management, contact us for confidential support.

Conclusion

Renewing your medical cannabis prescription in the UK is a straightforward process once you understand the system. The key is to plan ahead — book follow-up appointments early, order your prescription promptly, and maintain open communication with your clinic. If you need to switch clinics or are experiencing supply issues, CPGUK is here to help.