Glossary term
Onset: Onset means how quickly a medicine begins to produce noticeable effects after it is taken.
Why this term matters
Patients need this for planning, symptom tracking and avoiding early repeat dosing.
UK medical cannabis context
NICE expects discussions about how long it may take the medicine to work.
What not to assume
Faster onset does not automatically mean safer or better.
Careful wording: Avoid exact promises that ignore individual variation.
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.