Cannabis has been used as medicine for centuries, and there is evidence that cannabis was used in China as early as 2700 BC. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis and its ingredients, including CBD. So can doctors prescribe CBD in the UK? The answer to this question is complicated.
In this article, we will explore the current state of CBD prescription by doctors in the UK, including the legal framework, medical uses, and requirements for prescribing. We will also discuss some of the considerations that patients should keep in mind when considering using CBD for medical purposes.
What is CBD and what are its benefits?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effects and is therefore not associated with the 'high' typically associated with marijuana use. Studies and clinical trials have indicated that CBD can exhibit some therapeutic benefits. Although more research is needed to confirm CBD's efficacy, it is a promising compound with a wide range of potential medical applications.
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CBD is legal in the UK as long as it meets certain criteria. Specifically, CBD products must not contain more than 0.2% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive component of cannabis that produces a "high". CBD products that meet this requirement are classified as "exempt products" and can be legally sold and purchased.
However, the sale of CBD products that are not licensed and approved for medical use is strictly regulated by the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA). These products are considered to be "novel foods", which means that they require pre-market authorization before they can be sold. This is because they have not been consumed to a significant degree in the UK or EU before May 1997.
In addition, CBD products that are intended for medical use are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). These products must be licensed and approved for medical use before they can be prescribed by doctors in the UK.
Can doctors prescribe CBD in the UK?
In the UK, doctors are allowed to prescribe CBD products that have been licensed and approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for medical use. However, since CBD is sold as a dietary supplement, doctors do not need to prescribe it.
Currently, there are two licensed and approved CBD products in the UK: Epidyolex and Sativex. Epidyolex contains pure CBD and is used to treat seizures associated with two rare forms of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Sativex, on the other hand, contains both CBD and THC and is used to alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis, such as muscle stiffness and spasms.
Doctors may recommend CBD in the form of an oil, tincture, pill or cream. He or she may also recommend a specific dosage and frequency of use based on the patient's individual situation. By working with a qualified healthcare professional, interested individuals can be sure they are taking the right approach.
Although CBD is generally considered safe, it is important to know that it can interact with other medications. Therefore, patients who are already taking other medications should talk to their doctor before taking CBD. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should generally refrain from taking CBD.
Requirements for CBD Prescription in the UK
In the UK, doctors must meet certain requirements in order to prescribe CBD to their patients. The doctor must have appropriate training and expertise in the condition being treated, as well as an understanding of the potential risks and benefits of using CBD. Additionally, they must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and be up-to-date on all relevant laws and regulations regarding cannabis-based products. Furthermore, they must ensure that any product prescribed is obtained from a legitimate source and is free from contaminants or adulterants. Finally, it is important for doctors to keep detailed records of any prescriptions given out, including information about the patient's medical history and any side effects experienced.
How to qualify for a CBD prescription in the UK
In order to qualify for a prescription, the patient must have one of the following conditions: epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, HIV/AIDS, chronic pain or mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The CBD must also meet certain criteria in order to be lawfully available for human consumption.
What do doctors think about CBD?
Thanks to numerous clinical studies, researchers have gained a much better understanding of the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis products in recent years. This turnaround began when scientists discovered the endocannabinoid system in the human body about 20 years ago.
Are doctors allowed to prescribe cannabis in the UK?
Yes, but this right is only reserved for doctors listed on the Specialist Register of the General Medical Council. Furthermore, cannabis-based products, as described by the NHS, can only prescribed within the doctor's own area of practice and training.
Considerations for Patients
If you are considering using CBD for medical purposes, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. This is because CBD can interact with other medications you may be taking and may not be appropriate for everyone.
Your healthcare professional can help you determine whether CBD is a suitable treatment option for your specific condition and can provide guidance on dosing and any potential side effects or risks associated with using CBD.
When using CBD, it's important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD may take time to be noticeable, and that it may take several weeks of regular use to see the full benefits.
Finally, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects of using CBD, which can include dry mouth, dizziness, and changes in appetite or mood. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, stop using CBD and consult with your healthcare professional.
2 comments
Hi Jeff,
Thank you for sharing.
For severe or chronic conditions, we usually advise starting with a mid to high-strength CBD oil, as this can be most effective in providing relief. We cannot guarantee the same results for everybody, as CBD can interact differently from person to person and is not a medicine. However, it is certainly worth a try! Please also make sure to check in with your doctor, before combining CBD with any medications.
I have also emailed you with a more detailed response, so please feel free to respond directly to me there, if you have any further questions.
Best,
Lewis
Hello. I suffer with chronic pain. And have severe anxiety and depression, also have ptsd from past trauma. I have been on so many different medications and the Dr can not prescribe me anything else as they have tried everything they can offer. I have heard that cbd has somewhat helped people also suffering with these conditions. Can I have some information on cbd oil. As I would like to know if it will help me in the long run.
Thank you.
Jeff