Glossary term
Certificate of analysis: A certificate of analysis is a laboratory document that reports test results for a given sample or batch. In cannabis, it may include cannabinoid content and other quality or contaminant testing information.
Why this term matters
Patients frequently encounter COAs when trying to understand product labels or batch changes.
UK medical cannabis context
More common in private-market and product-information contexts than NHS patient pages.
What not to assume
COA format varies, and a COA is not a substitute for prescribing advice or proof that a product is suitable for a specific patient.
Careful wording: Avoid overselling COAs as guarantees of personal effectiveness.
Related glossary terms
Related MCPH pages
Sources and review notes
This entry is educational vocabulary, not medical advice. Suitability, prescribing, product choice and monitoring belong with a qualified clinician or pharmacist.
- Certificate of analysis terminology note. Used as terminology context only, not as standalone clinical guidance.
- NHS medical cannabis guidance
- NICE NG144: cannabis-based medicinal products