Question 1

What is medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

Medical cannabis refers to cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) prescribed by a specialist doctor to treat specific medical conditions. These products are regulated, pharmaceutical-grade preparations — very different from recreational cannabis. In the UK, CBMPs were legalised for specialist prescription in November 2018.

Question 2

Is medical cannabis legal in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since November 2018, specialist doctors in the UK have been able to prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs). However, they can only be prescribed by a specialist clinician, not a GP, and only when other treatments have been tried and failed. MEDCANN Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered pharmacy authorised to dispense these products.

Question 3

Can I get medical cannabis on the NHS?

Accepted Answer

NHS prescriptions for medical cannabis are extremely rare and currently restricted to a very small number of specific conditions (such as severe childhood epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and MS spasticity). For most conditions, patients access CBMPs through the private healthcare route, which is where MEDCANN Pharmacy can help.

Question 4

How do I know if I'm eligible?

Accepted Answer

You may be eligible if you have a diagnosed condition that has not responded adequately to conventional treatments. Our specialist clinicians will assess your medical history and current treatments during a consultation. Register as a patient to begin the eligibility assessment process.

Question 5

How much does medical cannabis cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The cost of medical cannabis varies depending on the product, dosage, and quantity prescribed. At MEDCANN Pharmacy, the initial consultation is £200 and follow-up appointments are £95 per quarter. Medication costs typically range from £40–£400 per month depending on your prescription. We are always transparent about pricing before you commit.

Question 6

Do you accept NHS prescriptions?

Accepted Answer

We are able to accept NHS prescriptions for cannabis-based medicinal products in the rare cases where they are issued. However, the vast majority of our patients are on private prescriptions from specialist clinicians.

Question 7

How do I send my prescription to MEDCANN?

Accepted Answer

You can send your prescription by post to: MEDCANN, PO Box 78260, London, NW2 9UY. Alternatively, your prescribing clinician can send it directly to us electronically. You can also email a copy to rx@medcannpharmacy.co.uk — though please note we require the original prescription before dispensing.

Question 8

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Payment is required before dispensing. We do not currently offer payment plans, but we can discuss options for patients in financial difficulty.

Question 9

Is there evidence that medical cannabis works?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There is a growing body of clinical evidence supporting the use of cannabis-based medicinal products for a range of conditions including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis spasticity, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and certain forms of epilepsy. The evidence base continues to grow as more research is conducted. Our team stays up to date with the latest clinical literature.

Question 10

What are the side effects of medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

Like all medicines, CBMPs can have side effects. Common ones include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and changes in appetite. More serious effects can include anxiety, paranoia, and cognitive effects, particularly with high-THC products. Your prescribing clinician will discuss the risk-benefit profile with you and monitor your treatment.

Question 11

Can medical cannabis be addictive?

Accepted Answer

Cannabis can cause psychological dependence in some people, particularly with long-term, high-dose use of THC-dominant products. However, under medical supervision with appropriate dosing, the risk is managed carefully. Your clinician will monitor your treatment and adjust as needed. CBD-dominant products carry a much lower risk of dependence.

Question 12

Can I drive if I'm taking medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

This is a complex area. In the UK, it is illegal to drive with certain controlled drugs above specified limits in your blood, including THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis). Even if you have a legal prescription, you could be prosecuted if THC is detected above the legal limit. You should discuss this with your prescribing clinician and seek legal advice if needed. CBD-only products do not contain THC and are not subject to the same restrictions.

Question 13

What should I do if I'm stopped by police while taking medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

You should carry documentation of your prescription at all times. If stopped, you can present your prescription as evidence of lawful use. However, this does not automatically exempt you from prosecution if THC levels in your blood exceed legal limits. We recommend discussing this with your clinician and consulting a solicitor if you have concerns.

Question 14

Will medical cannabis affect my insurance?

Accepted Answer

You should inform your insurance providers (car, life, health) that you are taking prescribed medical cannabis. Failure to disclose this could invalidate your policy. Some insurers may increase premiums or decline cover. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to understand their position.

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