Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since November 2018, yet many patients still struggle to access it. Here is everything you need to know about getting a prescription.
Medical Cannabis in the UK: What Patients Need to Know
Medical cannabis was legalised in the United Kingdom in November 2018, following a landmark change in legislation driven by high-profile cases such as that of Billy Caldwell and Alfie Dingley. Despite this legal change, access through the NHS remains extremely limited, and the vast majority of patients must seek treatment through private specialist clinics.
Who Can Prescribe Medical Cannabis?
Under current UK law, only specialist doctors — those on the General Medical Council's Specialist Register — are permitted to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs). General practitioners (GPs) cannot prescribe these medicines directly, though they may refer patients to a specialist.
What Conditions May Qualify?
There is no definitive list of qualifying conditions in UK law. Instead, the decision rests with the prescribing specialist, who must determine that:
- The patient has a clinical need that has not been met by standard licensed medicines
- The potential benefits outweigh the risks
- The patient has typically tried at least two other treatments without adequate relief
Commonly prescribed conditions include chronic pain, anxiety disorders, PTSD, multiple sclerosis spasticity, epilepsy, and nausea related to chemotherapy.
How to Get Started
The first step is to speak with your GP about your condition and request a referral to a specialist. If your GP is unwilling to refer you, you may seek a private specialist consultation directly. CPGUK can help guide you through this process — our team is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, on 0330 001 1100.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
A specialist will review your full medical history, previous treatments, and current symptoms. They will assess whether a CBPM is appropriate for your situation. If a prescription is issued, it will typically be for a specific product and dosage, which you will obtain from a licensed pharmacy.
Costs
NHS prescriptions for CBPMs are rare. Most patients pay privately, with costs varying depending on the product, dosage, and clinic. Monthly costs typically range from £150 to £400. CPGUK's resource guide on how much medical cannabis costs provides a detailed breakdown.
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CPGUK is a non-profit patient advocacy organisation. We do not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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CPGUK is a free, non-profit patient advocacy service. We can help guide you through the process of accessing a medical cannabis prescription in the UK.
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