Glossary term

Indication: An indication is the condition, symptom or circumstance for which a medicine may be considered or prescribed.

EssentialClinicalSource quality: HighLast updated: 29 June 2026

Why this term matters

One of the core terms patients hear in consultations and read in medicine information.

UK medical cannabis context

NICE and NHS public guidance are tightly indication-sensitive in this area.

What not to assume

A medicine being “used for” something is not always the same as being licensed for it.

Careful wording: Avoid saying “indicated” where evidence or licensing is unclear.

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.