Are the drugs prescribed at the clinics legal?

Yes, absolutely. Since 2018, medical cannabis has been a legal prescription medication in the UK. As a patients group, we help people access much-needed medication and obtain their prescriptions through licensed specialist clinics.

Is medical cannabis right for me?

Medical cannabis may be suitable if you have a condition that hasn't responded adequately to conventional treatments. A specialist doctor will assess your medical history and determine whether cannabis-based medicines are appropriate for your situation.

How is medical cannabis available and where does it come from?

Medical cannabis in the UK is available through private specialist clinics via prescription. The products are legally imported and manufactured to pharmaceutical standards. They come in various forms including oils, capsules, and dried flower for vaporisation.

What is the difference between the prescription product and CBD oil?

CBD oil available in health shops is a food supplement and is not regulated as a medicine. Prescription cannabis-based products (CBPMs) are regulated pharmaceutical medicines, prescribed by specialist doctors, and may contain THC as well as CBD in controlled, tested doses.

5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Medical Cannabis

Talking to your doctor about medical cannabis can feel daunting. These five questions will help you have a productive, informed conversation at your next appointment.

How to Talk to Your Doctor About Medical Cannabis

Many patients feel uncertain about raising the topic of medical cannabis with their GP or specialist. Concerns about being judged, dismissed, or misunderstood are common. However, since legalisation in 2018, awareness among healthcare professionals has grown considerably, and an open, informed conversation is entirely appropriate.

Here are five questions that can help you make the most of your consultation.

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1. "Is medical cannabis an option for my condition?"

This is the most direct way to open the conversation. Your doctor may not raise the topic themselves, but asking directly signals that you are informed and serious about exploring all treatment options. Be prepared to explain that you are asking about prescribed cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs), not recreational cannabis.

2. "Have I exhausted the standard treatment options?"

Specialist prescribers in the UK typically require evidence that a patient has tried at least two conventional treatments without adequate benefit. Understanding where you stand on this pathway helps set realistic expectations and may inform next steps.

3. "Can you refer me to a specialist who prescribes CBPMs?"

GPs cannot prescribe medical cannabis directly, but they can refer you to a specialist. If your GP is unfamiliar with the referral process, CPGUK can provide guidance on specialist clinics and how to access them.

4. "What are the potential risks for someone with my medical history?"

Medical cannabis is not suitable for everyone. Patients with a personal or family history of psychosis, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those taking certain medications may face additional risks. A frank discussion about your individual circumstances is essential.

5. "How would treatment be monitored?"

Prescribed CBPMs require ongoing monitoring. Ask your specialist how frequently you will be reviewed, what outcomes will be measured, and what the process is for adjusting your prescription if needed.

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Preparing for Your Appointment

Before your consultation, it helps to:

Keep a symptom diary documenting how your condition affects your daily life

Bring a list of all current medications and previous treatments

Note any side effects or inadequate responses to past treatments

Download CPGUK's free Talk to Your Doctor guide

CPGUK is here to support you at every stage. Call us on 0330 001 1100 or sign up for a free consultation.

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CPGUK is a non-profit patient advocacy organisation. We do not provide medical advice.