Your Guide to Medical Cannabis in the UK
A comprehensive guide to understanding medical cannabis, who qualifies, how to get a prescription, and what to expect.
What is Medical Cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to cannabis-based products prescribed by a specialist doctor for medicinal purposes. In the UK, medical cannabis was legalised in November 2018 following high-profile cases involving children with severe epilepsy. Since then, access has gradually expanded to include a wider range of conditions.
Medical cannabis products are prescribed by specialist doctors on the General Medical Council (GMC) register. These products contain cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Who Qualifies for Medical Cannabis?
You may be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription if:
- You have a qualifying condition that has not responded well to at least two conventional treatments
- A specialist doctor determines that the potential benefits outweigh the risks
- Your condition falls under the scope of NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines
Qualifying Conditions
While the list continues to evolve, conditions commonly treated with medical cannabis in the UK include:
- Chronic Pain – Including neuropathic pain and conditions unresponsive to standard painkillers
- Epilepsy – Particularly treatment-resistant epilepsy in children and adults
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – For spasticity symptoms
- Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV)
- Anxiety and PTSD – Though evidence is still developing for these conditions
How to Get a Prescription
- Speak to your GP – Discuss your condition and whether medical cannabis might be appropriate. Your GP can refer you to a specialist if appropriate.
- Find a specialist clinic – Several UK-based clinics specialise in cannabis prescriptions. Use our clinic directory to compare options.
- Initial consultation – A specialist doctor will review your medical history, current treatments, and determine if medical cannabis is suitable.
- Receive your prescription – If approved, your prescription will be sent to a specialist pharmacy for dispensing.
- Follow-up appointments – Regular reviews ensure the treatment is working and allows for dosage adjustments.
What to Expect
Costs: Medical cannabis is not available on the NHS (except in very limited circumstances). Private prescriptions typically cost between £100-£300 per month, depending on the product and dose. Initial consultations range from £100-£200.
Products: You’ll typically be prescribed either cannabis flower (for vaporisation), cannabis oil, or both. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate formulation.
Timeline: From first consultation to receiving medication usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Common Questions
Q: Can I drive while using medical cannabis?
A: Medical cannabis may impair your ability to drive. The legal limit for THC in blood is 2 micrograms per litre. Discuss driving safety with your doctor.
Q: Will my employer know?
A: Your prescription is confidential medical information. However, you should inform your employer if your work is safety-critical.
Q: Can I choose my product?
A: Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate product based on your condition. You can discuss preferences during your consultation.
Next Steps
Ready to explore medical cannabis treatment? Check out our cost calculator to estimate treatment costs, or browse our clinic directory to find a provider near you.
Last updated: March 2026. Information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.