Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain affects an estimated 28 million adults in the UK — roughly half the adult population. It is defined as pain lasting longer than three months and can arise from conditions such as back injury, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and nerve damage. Conventional treatments including opioids, NSAIDs, and antidepressants often provide incomplete relief and carry significant side-effect burdens. Medical cannabis is now an established option for patients who have not responded adequately to standard care.
How Medical Cannabis Can Help
Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) interact with the body's endocannabinoid system — a network of receptors involved in pain modulation, inflammation, and mood regulation. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD can reduce the perception of pain, decrease inflammation, and improve sleep quality, which is frequently disrupted in chronic pain patients. At MEDCANN Pharmacy, our partner clinicians prescribe CBMPs as part of a personalised treatment plan, which may include flower, oils, or capsules depending on your symptoms and lifestyle.
Key Benefits for Chronic Pain Patients
- Reduced pain intensity and improved daily functioning
- Better sleep quality — a key driver of pain recovery
- Lower reliance on opioids and other high-risk analgesics
- Personalised dosing reviewed every three months
- Discreet, GPhC-dispensed medication delivered to your door
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription for chronic pain if you have been experiencing pain for three months or more, have tried at least two conventional treatments without adequate relief, and are a UK resident aged 18 or over. Our partner clinicians will conduct a full medical history review at your initial consultation.
Start My Eligibility CheckFrequently Asked Questions
Is medical cannabis legal for chronic pain in the UK?
Yes. Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in November 2018. Specialist clinicians can prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for chronic pain when other treatments have not worked. All prescriptions are dispensed by GPhC-registered pharmacies such as MEDCANN.
How quickly does medical cannabis work for pain?
Inhaled cannabis flower typically produces effects within minutes, while oils and capsules may take 30–90 minutes. Most patients notice meaningful improvement in pain levels within 2–4 weeks of starting treatment, though optimal results often take 2–3 months of dose titration.
Will medical cannabis make me feel 'high'?
Not necessarily. Many patients are prescribed CBD-dominant products with low THC content, which do not produce psychoactive effects. Where THC is included, dosing is carefully managed by your clinician to minimise intoxication while maximising therapeutic benefit.
How much does medical cannabis for pain cost?
An initial consultation costs £200. Follow-up appointments are £95 per quarter. Medication costs vary by product and dosage, starting from approximately £40 per month. There are no hidden fees.
Related Conditions We Treat
Ready to Start Your Treatment Journey?
Book an initial consultation with one of our specialist clinicians. If medical cannabis is appropriate for your chronic pain, a prescription will be issued and your medication dispensed and delivered by MEDCANN Pharmacy.