Glossary term

Misuse: Misuse means using a medicine in a way other than intended, prescribed or safe.

UsefulSafetySource quality: HighLast updated: 29 June 2026

Why this term matters

Important for patient education because lawful access does not remove misuse risk.

UK medical cannabis context

NICE tells prescribers to consider dependence, diversion and misuse, especially with THC.

What not to assume

Misuse risk may be higher when products are shared, diverted or used outside instructions.

Careful wording: Avoid framing all patient difficulty as misuse; use clinically fair language.

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.