How to access medical
Cannabis Treatment
Accessing the help you need in three easy steps. As of now, the NHS does not endorse medical cannabis, so patients must be prepared to pay for a private prescription.
Book an inital consultation & complete
a medical questionnaire
Attend your consultation online from the comfort of your own home
Your prescription gets sent to you direct from the pharmacy *
*Prescriptions are subject to a thorough medical review and are assessesd on an indiviual basis
Understanding Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various physiological processes such as pain, mood, appetite, and immune function. The primary active compounds in cannabis are cannabinoids, with the most notable being CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
CBD (Cannabidiol):
- Non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high.”
- Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety properties.
- Commonly used to treat conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and anxiety disorders.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
- Psychoactive, responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use.
- Effective in relieving pain, reducing muscle spasms, and stimulating appetite.
- Often used in treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and nausea from chemotherapy.
Recreational Cannabis:
- Typically contains higher levels of THC to produce psychoactive effects.
- Used primarily for enjoyment and leisure rather than for medicinal purposes.
- May have varying levels of CBD, but the focus is often on achieving a high.
Medical Cannabis:
- Specifically cultivated and prescribed to treat medical conditions.
- Can have a balanced ratio of CBD and THC or higher levels of CBD, depending on the condition being treated.
- Formulated to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing psychoactive effects.
Understanding these differences helps in selecting the appropriate type of cannabis for medical use, ensuring effective and safe treatment tailored to individual needs.
Suitability and
Side effects
Suitability for Medical Cannabis Treatment
Not everyone is a candidate for medical cannabis treatment. For instance, individuals with active schizophrenia or certain heart rhythm disorders may not be suitable. Additionally, medical cannabis can interact with other medications you may be taking.
Side Effects of Medical Cannabis
Some patients who are new to cannabis medicines do feel some side effects with this medicine. Most report that these effects are temporary. Whilst we cannot guarantee no side effects, we have a team on hand to support any concerns you may have.
Overdose on Cannabis
Although you can take more than the prescribed amount of cannabis, it is unlikely to be fatal, unlike some medications like opioids. Overdosing can be unpleasant, causing symptoms like palpitations, sweating, dizziness, disorientation, and in very rare cases, psychotic reactions. In the case of a significant overdose, seek medical attention at A&E and inform them about your cannabis intake.
Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
It is generally advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to avoid taking any medication, including cannabis. However, if a medical condition necessitates continued cannabis use, such as for epilepsy, there is no definitive syndrome associated with cannabis use. Avoid cannabis if possible during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Ensuring Product Safety
When prescribed by a specialist, medical cannabis treatment ensures you receive safe, high-quality products. Prescribed medical cannabis adheres to EU GMP standards, guaranteeing consistency and quality. These products come with a certificate of analysis, ensuring they contain exactly what is required.
MCT Oil in Cannabis Products
MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil is used as a carrier oil to enhance the availability of cannabis after consumption. It is often considered the most effective option, although some brands may use other oils like olive oil. Be mindful of the carrier oil, as some individuals may be allergic to certain oils, such as peanut oil.