Medical Cannabis Legislation in the UK
Understanding the law with Medcann Pharmacy
Medical cannabis is legal in the UK – but only under strict conditions. Since November 2018, following a change to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis-based medicines to patients who meet specific criteria.
This was a landmark step forward for patients living with long-term conditions, but it also means that medical cannabis remains tightly controlled. At Medcann Pharmacy, we believe that understanding the law helps patients feel confident and informed about their treatment options.
Key Aspects of UK Medical Cannabis Legislation
Legalisation in 2018
The law changed in November 2018, allowing cannabis-based medicines to be prescribed for the first time in the UK. This does not mean cannabis is freely available—it must be prescribed by a specialist doctor where it is clinically appropriate.
Specialist Prescription Only
Medical cannabis can only be prescribed by doctors who are on the General Medical Council’s (GMC) Specialist Register. GPs cannot prescribe it directly, but they can refer patients to a specialist.
Controlled Substance Status
Cannabis remains a Class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means it is illegal to possess, supply, produce, import, or export cannabis without a prescription or licence. Having a prescription protects patients from this.
Conditions and Treatment
Medical cannabis is usually prescribed for patients with serious or chronic conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments. Each case is considered individually by the prescribing specialist.
Approved Products
There are currently a small number of cannabis-based medicines with UK marketing authorisation:
- Sativex (nabiximols): Prescribed for spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
- Epidyolex (pure CBD): Used in certain rare forms of epilepsy.
These products have been through formal clinical trials and licensing.
Unlicensed Products
Specialist doctors also have the option to prescribe unlicensed cannabis-based products where they believe it could benefit the patient. These prescriptions are made on a case-by-case basis.
NICE Guidelines
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published guidance on when medical cannabis may be appropriate, such as for spasticity in multiple sclerosis and certain types of epilepsy. However, specialists may also consider it for other conditions not listed in the guidelines.
Purchasing & Storage
All prescribed medical cannabis must be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy like Medcann Pharmacy.
- Manufacturers, wholesalers, and importers are not permitted to advertise cannabis-based medicines.
- Patients must store their medication securely and only use it as directed.
Important Considerations
Medical Cannabis vs. Recreational Cannabis
The legalisation in 2018 only applies to prescribed medical cannabis. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in the UK.
CBD Products
Over-the-counter CBD oils and supplements are not the same as prescribed medical cannabis. Many shop-bought CBD products may be legal if they contain no THC and meet UK safety standards, but others may fall outside the law. Always check carefully before buying.
Public Awareness
Despite the law change, there is still a lot of confusion. Many people do not realise medical cannabis can be legally prescribed in the UK, or they are unsure about the difference between medical cannabis and CBD wellness products. At Medcann Pharmacy, we aim to make the process clearer and provide support for patients every step of the way.
In Summary
- Medical cannabis became legal in the UK in 2018.
- It can only be prescribed by a GMC specialist doctor.
- Cannabis remains a controlled substance—illegal without a prescription.
- Licensed products include Sativex and Epidyolex, but unlicensed products can also be prescribed.
- All prescriptions must be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy.
✅ Medcann Pharmacy is here to help.
If you’re exploring medical cannabis as a treatment option, our team can guide you through the process, ensure your prescription is handled legally, and support you in managing your medication safely.
Medical Cannabis Legislation in the UK
Understanding the law with Medcann Pharmacy
Medical cannabis is legal in the UK – but only under strict conditions. Since November 2018, following a change to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis-based medicines to patients who meet specific criteria.
This was a landmark step forward for patients living with long-term conditions, but it also means that medical cannabis remains tightly controlled. At Medcann Pharmacy, we believe that understanding the law helps patients feel confident and informed about their treatment options.
Key Aspects of UK Medical Cannabis Legislation
Legalisation in 2018
The law changed in November 2018, allowing cannabis-based medicines to be prescribed for the first time in the UK. This does not mean cannabis is freely available—it must be prescribed by a specialist doctor where it is clinically appropriate.
Specialist Prescription Only
Medical cannabis can only be prescribed by doctors who are on the General Medical Council’s (GMC) Specialist Register. GPs cannot prescribe it directly, but they can refer patients to a specialist.
Controlled Substance Status
Cannabis remains a Class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means it is illegal to possess, supply, produce, import, or export cannabis without a prescription or licence. Having a prescription protects patients from this.
Conditions and Treatment
Medical cannabis is usually prescribed for patients with serious or chronic conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments. Each case is considered individually by the prescribing specialist.
Approved Products
There are currently a small number of cannabis-based medicines with UK marketing authorisation:
- Sativex (nabiximols): Prescribed for spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
- Epidyolex (pure CBD): Used in certain rare forms of epilepsy.
These products have been through formal clinical trials and licensing.
Unlicensed Products
Specialist doctors also have the option to prescribe unlicensed cannabis-based products where they believe it could benefit the patient. These prescriptions are made on a case-by-case basis.
NICE Guidelines
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published guidance on when medical cannabis may be appropriate, such as for spasticity in multiple sclerosis and certain types of epilepsy. However, specialists may also consider it for other conditions not listed in the guidelines.
Purchasing & Storage
All prescribed medical cannabis must be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy like Medcann Pharmacy.
- Manufacturers, wholesalers, and importers are not permitted to advertise cannabis-based medicines.
- Patients must store their medication securely and only use it as directed.
Important Considerations
Medical Cannabis vs. Recreational Cannabis
The legalisation in 2018 only applies to prescribed medical cannabis. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in the UK.
CBD Products
Over-the-counter CBD oils and supplements are not the same as prescribed medical cannabis. Many shop-bought CBD products may be legal if they contain no THC and meet UK safety standards, but others may fall outside the law. Always check carefully before buying.
Public Awareness
Despite the law change, there is still a lot of confusion. Many people do not realise medical cannabis can be legally prescribed in the UK, or they are unsure about the difference between medical cannabis and CBD wellness products. At Medcann Pharmacy, we aim to make the process clearer and provide support for patients every step of the way.
In Summary
- Medical cannabis became legal in the UK in 2018.
- It can only be prescribed by a GMC specialist doctor.
- Cannabis remains a controlled substance—illegal without a prescription.
- Licensed products include Sativex and Epidyolex, but unlicensed products can also be prescribed.
- All prescriptions must be dispensed through a licensed pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my GP prescribe medical cannabis?
No. Only doctors listed on the GMC’s Specialist Register can prescribe medical cannabis. Your GP can refer you to a specialist if appropriate.
Is medical cannabis available on the NHS?
Yes, but only in very limited circumstances. Most NHS prescriptions are for children with rare forms of epilepsy or patients with multiple sclerosis. Many patients access treatment privately through licensed clinics and pharmacies.
What conditions can medical cannabis help with?
Medical cannabis is usually considered for conditions that have not improved with standard treatments. These include certain types of epilepsy, spasticity in MS, chronic pain, and other complex conditions, depending on the doctor’s judgement.
What’s the difference between medical cannabis and CBD oil I can buy in shops?
Prescribed medical cannabis is carefully regulated, can contain THC, and is supplied under strict medical supervision. Shop-bought CBD products are classed as food supplements and may not be reliable or suitable for medical use.
Do I need a licence to use medical cannabis?
No. If you have a valid prescription, you do not need a licence. The prescription itself makes your treatment legal.
Can I travel abroad with my prescription?
This depends on the country. Some countries allow patients to carry prescribed cannabis-based medicines, while others prohibit it. Always check the laws of your destination before travelling.
How do I get started with a prescription?
Visit our How to Get a Prescription for Medical Cannabis page or the Medical Cannabis Prescription Guide for step-by-step help.
✅ Medcann Pharmacy is here to help.
If you’re exploring medical cannabis as a treatment option, our team can guide you through the process, ensure your prescription is handled legally, and support you in managing your medication safely.