Medical Cannabis FAQs

General Questions

How do I become a patient?

In order to determine if Medical Cannabis could be beneficial for you, we require completion of our eligibility form, which is available here.

‍To complete the assessment, we require medical records from your GP and/or specialist. If you have been previously treated at another Medical Cannabis clinic, we will ask you to provide details of your first/last prescription and discharge letter from that clinic.

To finalise your onboarding process, we will require the submission of a digitally signed agreement and a photographic ID.

If you already have your medical records, the process can be completed within a day, and an appointment can be scheduled for the coming week. However, if we need to collect your medical records, there may be a slight delay in the process.

When will I get my prescription?

Following your consultation, we will confirm your order and request payment for your medication. Once payment has been made, please allow 5-7 working days for your medication to be delivered. Tracking details of your medication will be sent to you via email.

I have a lot of questions, can I speak to the clinic directly?

You can schedule a free call with our clinic team at a time that suits you. Book here.

Am I committed to a monthly subscription when I sign up?

Patients are not committed to a monthly subscription and are able to discharge themselves at any point, please email the clinic if you wish to do so.

What are the waiting times to see a Doctor?

New patients who have all the necessary documents can typically be scheduled to see a doctor within 7 days. However, if our clinic needs to obtain your summary care record from your GP, please allow 14-21 days for the process.

Do I need to ask my GP if I can start Medical Cannabis treatment?

Patients usually self-refer to our clinic and do not require consent from their GP to initiate Medical Cannabis treatment.

However, we do send regular updates to your doctor regarding your treatment. This helps ensure your safety should you develop any other medical conditions or require additional medications that could interact with cannabis-based treatments.

What should I do if my condition is not listed?

In case your medical condition is not listed, please reach out to us at info@mamedica.com, and our patient support team will get in touch with you to explore possible options for accessing treatment.

I've not been to the Doctors for my condition, can I access treatment?

Patients who have not attempted primary treatments for their medical condition will not meet the eligibility criteria. However, any medication, treatment, or therapy prescribed by your doctor, even if it was declined, can count as one of the two required forms of medication for eligibility.

How often do I need to make an appointment?

After your first consultation, we are obligated by law to schedule a follow-up appointment with you after one month, and then quarterly (months 3, 6, and 9) during your first year. Subsequently, we will only need to schedule one appointment with you per year.

I have paid for my medication but want to change it, is this posssible?

Patients who have already paid for their medication are not allowed to request any changes until their existing prescription has expired. If you wish to change your medication, you must submit your request through the repeat prescription form or during a consultation with a specialist before making the payment.

How do I order a repeat prescription?

To request a repeat prescription, you are required to have had a least 2 consultations with Mamedica and should not be due for a follow-up. You can submit your requests here.

‍If you don’t meet these criteria, please book a follow-up appointment in the patient portal.

What if I need to change of cancel my consultation appointment?

If you need to cancel or adjust your appointment for whatever reason, please do so via your patient portal no later than 48 hours prior to your appointment to avoid charges being incurred. If you need to change your appointment less than 48 hours prior, please call our clinic team on 0330 580 1170 to discuss.

Can you deliver my medication outside of the UK?

Our dispensary team are unable to send medication outside of the UK due to legal guidelines.

Can I change my delivery address?

Your prescription can only be delivered to the address written on your prescription during your consultation. Please contact our clinic if you require your medication to be sent to another address.

How long is a consultation?

We recommend that patients allocate 30 minutes for their online consultation with a doctor. You will be emailed a meeting link 15 minutes prior to your consultation starting.

How do consultations take place?

All consultations take place via our secure patient portal. You will be emailed a meeting link 15 minutes prior to your consultation starting.

I would like to see a Doctor in person, is this possible?

Currently, we do not provide face-to-face consultations with a doctor. If you need any help with arranging an online consultation, our clinic team will be delighted to assist you.

I have additional needs and am not able to sign up online.

If for any reason you are unable to check your eligibility via our online form, please call our clinic team who will be happy to onboard you via the phone.

Can I transfer my script to your dispensary?

Medical Cannabis prescriptions can be submitted to our dispensary for processing with no additional processing fees. You will need to request your doctor to send the physical prescription to Mamedica Dispensary, Unit 3, West Point, 11 Durham Road, Laindon, Basildon, Essex, SS15 6PH and email a scanned copy to fp10cd@mamedicadispensary.com

I live in Northern Ireland, can I access your service?

Patients who live in Northern Ireland can access our clinic and dispensary services.

What happens during an initial consultation?

Our initial consultations are scheduled for 30 minutes. We urge all patients to utilise this time to have a candid conversation about their medical condition, previous experience with cannabis, and their reasons for considering Medical Cannabis treatment.

Can I choose my Doctor?

When you fill out the online eligibility form, the condition you select will automatically match you with the most appropriate specialist doctor at our clinic. If you are not satisfied with your doctor for any reason, please get in touch with our clinic to discuss the matter.

What conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of conditions across pain, psychiatry, neurology, gastroenterology, cancer and palliative care. You can learn more here.

Consuming & Dosing

What types of Medical Cannabis do you prescribe?

We have an extensive formulary of Medical Cannabis options to support patients with various conditions. These are available in the form of cannabis flower, oil, cartridges, and capsules in various combinations of THC, CBD, and balanced profiles.

Do you prescribe non-irradiated Medical Cannabis flower?

Yes, we offer a wide range of non-irradiated prescription options for patients which can be discussed with your doctor during a consultation.

How fast does it take to feel the effects of my medication?

The onset time for Medical Cannabis can vary depending on the method of administration.

When inhaled through vaping, the effects of Medical Cannabis can be felt within minutes and peak within 30 minutes to an hour.

When taken orally, such as through edibles or tinctures, the onset time can be delayed and take up to 1-2 hours for the effects to be felt. This is because cannabis must first be absorbed through the digestive system and then metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream.

It is important to start with a low dose and wait for the onset of effects before taking more, as the effects of cannabis can vary from person to person and can also be influenced by factors such as tolerance, metabolism, and the specific strain and potency of the cannabis used.

Do you prescribe THC flower?

Yes, our Doctors prescribe a wide range of Medical Cannabis flower which ranges in THC %. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant that is responsible for its psychoactive effects. Medical cannabis flowers are the dried and cured buds of the cannabis plant, which can be used for various medical purposes.

Medical Cannabis flower with higher THC levels are typically used for conditions that require a stronger therapeutic effect, such as chronic pain, muscle spasms, and nausea.

I am not experiencing results, can I increase my dose?

Your personalised treatment plan has been prescribed for 28 days supply. Any increases in dose will effect the length of treatment and may disrupt the medical benefits. We recommend discussing dosing with your doctor during your consultation.

Can I request the medication I have previously used from a past clinic?

Yes, if you are transitioning from another clinic, you can make a request for your previous medication.

Can I stop my medication at any time or do I have to gradually decrease?

Considering the unique nature of each person’s medical condition and medication regimen, we urge you to either consult with your doctor or reach out to our clinic for guidance on the optimal course of action with regards to discontinuing treatment.

How long will my prescription last?

All prescriptions are written for 28 days supply. If you require additional medication, please contact the clinic to discuss.

How does your medicinal CBD differ from what I'm able to buy on the high street?

Prescribed CBD products are usually subjected to more rigorous testing and quality control measures, ensuring that the potency and purity of the product are consistent from batch to batch.

Additionally, prescribed CBD products are often formulated to meet the specific needs of an individual patient, taking into account factors such as their medical history, current medications, and overall health status.

CBD products available on the high street may not be subject to the same level of regulation or testing, which can lead to inconsistencies in potency and purity. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional when considering the use of CBD as a medical treatment.

Can I share my prescription with another patient?

No, you should not share your prescription with another patient. Prescription medications are specifically prescribed for the individual patient based on their unique medical condition, history, and other factors. Sharing your prescription with someone else could potentially harm their health, as they may have a different medical condition or be taking different medications that could interact negatively with the medication prescribed for you. Additionally, sharing prescription medications is illegal.

What Medical Cannabis suppliers do you prescribe?

Our approved list of medicines includes all medication manufactured by the following brands: Adven, Adven Cura, Althea Aurora, Aurora Pedanios, Bedrocan, CannFX, CanValue, Clearleaf®, Fotmer, Grow, Khiron, MVC, MAMEDICA, Lumir, Satoline, Spectrum Canopy, Tilray, Together Pharma and Weeco. We encourage all patients to have an open and informed conversation about their prescription preferences during consultations. If there is any medicine which we currently do not stock, we will make every effort to add this to our approved list of medicines.

Can I bake Medical Cannabis?

It is not recommended to bake or consume Medical Cannabis using any method other than what has been prescribed to you by your doctor.

How do I take oral oils?

Placing cannabis oil under the tongue (sublingual administration) is the most efficient method of consumption. The oil is usually accompanied by an oral syringe, which enables precise measurement of the prescribed dosage.

We recommend consuming oral products with a fatty meal to aid absorption into the body. Oral syringes can be gently washed in warm soapy water, rinsed, and left to air dry.

What if you forget or miss a dose?

You should take your medication as soon as possible when you remember. Do not take an extra dose or increase the amount of your next dose to make up for the one you missed. Ask your consultant or contact the Mamedica team if you are unsure of what to do.

What is in my medication?

The majority of Medical Cannabis medicine is full-spectrum plant extracts. This means they contain not only THC and CBD, but also minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds. We recommend discussing with your doctor any questions you may have surrounding your prescription.

Do I wash the syringe after use?

For Medical Cannabis oil, if your syringe is separate from the bottle we recommend gently rinsing the syringe in warm water and leaving it to air dry after each dose.

When in the evening should I consume my medication?

Depending on the type of medication you have been prescribed teamed with your individual endocannabinoid system this is something we encourage patients to test themselves. We recommend 60 to 120 minutes prior to sleeping.

Can I apply the oil to my skin?

We do not advise consuming your Medical Cannabis via skin contact. Medical Cannabis oil is produced to be orally consumed and will have little effect on penetrating the skin.

What dose should I consume?

The recommended dose for your medical condition will be determined by your doctor. Typically, patients begin their treatment plan with a low dose, which may be as low as 5mg of THC per day. The dosage is then gradually increased over time, based on individual response and tolerance, under the guidance of your doctor.

Can a support worker, carer or family member give someone Medical Cannabis?

We recommend patients email the caregiver’s office to inform them of any new medication or care requirements. Our clinic is happy to provide any documentation or instructions regarding consumption.

It is important to note, although our service is legal, some local regulations at residential homes or care agencies may limit the ability to administer medication. If you have any difficulty, please contact our clinic for guidance.

Why has my doctor prescribed oil/flower/capsules?

Medical Cannabis flower is to be used in a vaporiser and is typically prescribed for severe pain when a quick result is needed within minutes. Oil provides and capsules can provide background relief throughout the day and can be easily topped up 2-3 times a day. Please follow the consumption advise of your doctor for the best results.

Is my medication plant-based?

Yes, Medical Cannabis is plant-based. It is derived from the cannabis plant, which contains various active compounds known as cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids are believed to have various therapeutic benefits, and Medical Cannabis products are formulated to deliver precise dosages of these compounds to patients for medical purposes. However, it’s important to note that not all cannabis plants are the same and the potency and composition of different strains can vary widely. Additionally, Medical Cannabis products can be formulated from various parts of the plant, such as flowers, leaves, or even the root, depending on the desired therapeutic effect.

Cost of Medical Cannabis

What is the cost to access a Medical Cannabis prescription?

To be prescribed Medical Cannabis, patients are legally required to see a specialist doctor via a clinic like Mamedica. Initial consultations are £150 with follow-up consultations costing £75. The cost of medication can be discussed with your doctor but on average patients can expect to pay as little as £5 per day for their medication. For example, within our range of prescribed medicines, we offer flower from £5 to £14 per gram and oil from £30.

I'm a transferring patient, what's the cost to join your clinic?

The cost to transfer to our clinic is £75. When transferring, we require patients to upload their summary care record and history of their previous medical treatment via the patient portal. You can request your summary care record from your previous clinic or from your GP.

Do you charge for delivery?

All prescriptions are shipped via secure courier service at no additional cost (once per prescription). Once your order has been dispatched, we will provide you with a tracking link via email. If you prefer to have your prescriptions sent separately, such as for multiple products on your prescription, a fee of £10 will be charged per delivery.

I'm a veteran, is there any financial support to access medication?

Veterans are eligible for our Access Scheme which allows patients to access our clinic services at a discounted rate. You can learn more here.

I'm on benefits, is there any financial support to access medications?

Patients who are receiving means-based benefits from the UK government are eligible for our Access Scheme. This program enables patients to access our clinic services for a one-off discounted rate. Further information can be found at Access Scheme.

I'm a student, is there any financial support to access medications?

Students over the age of 18 are eligible for our Access Scheme which allows patients to access our clinic services at a discounted rate. Further information can be found here: Access Scheme.

What counts as proof for the Access Scheme?

Patients who wish to apply for our Access Scheme must provide proof of their eligibility.

Veterans may submit a war pension document, a personal independence payment awarding letter, or The British Veteran Recognition card.

For those accessing means-based benefits, an Award Letter, Benefit Entitlement Letter, Statement of Reasons Letter, or proof via their Government portal will be accepted.

For students, an NUS card will be accepted.

For a full list, see our Mamedica Access Scheme page.

Can I use PIP or DLA benefits to access treatment?

Yes, if you qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) then you could be eligible to access cannabis-based medicines. All claims and any questions on this should be submitted to the GOV.UK.

Does health insurance cover Medical Cannabis treatment?

Private healthcare insurance may cover the cost of Medical Cannabis consultations, but it ultimately depends on the specific insurance policy. Some policies may cover consultations with a specialist doctor, while others may exclude coverage for Medical Cannabis treatments altogether. It is best to check with your insurance provider to determine if they cover the cost of Medical Cannabis consultations.

What will I pay for a Medical Cannabis prescription?

The cost of a Medical Cannabis prescription can vary depending products prescribed. Generally, the cost of the consultation and prescription will be separate from the cost of the Medical Cannabis products themselves.

The cost of the Medical Cannabis products can vary widely depending on the type, dose, and quantity prescribed. In some cases, private health insurance may cover the cost of Medical Cannabis consultations, but this will depend on the individual policy. It is best to check with your clinic or health insurance provider to determine the specific costs involved.

Can I be prescribed Medical Cannabis via the NHS?

Access to Medical Cannabis via the NHS is extremely restricted and usually limited to severe cases of rare epilepsy, vomiting or nausea caused by chemotherapy, and some instances of muscle stiffness caused by multiple sclerosis. Most patients who are seeking Medical Cannabis treatment are likely to obtain it through private clinics like Mamedica.

Do you charge for repeat prescriptions?

We do not charge for repeat prescriptions.

I need an invoice for my medication.

Once your consultation is completed, your prescription will be sent to our dispensary team. They will reach out to you to confirm your medication order and send an invoice via email. Please note that any delays in paying the invoice will affect the delivery time of your medication.

Can I split my Access Scheme payment?

Payment for the Access Scheme cannot be split and must be made in full before attending your first appointment with Mamedica.

Although we acknowledge that this may pose challenges, regulations regarding Medical Cannabis treatment prohibit the use of credit-based payments.

What is included in the Access Scheme?

We have kept things simple with a one-off £200 upfront clinic payment that enables you to have full access to our clinic team.

This includes all consultations and issue of repeats prescriptions for new patients, subject to approval.

Side Effects & Reactions

Will cannabis conflict with my medication?

Medical Cannabis can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. During your consultation, it is important to notify the Doctor of any medication you are currently taking. You can learn more about the drug interactions with Medical Cannabis.

What should you do if you experience side effects?

As with any medication, Medical Cannabis can cause side effects. These side effects are usually mild and may occur at the beginning of the treatment, but they tend to dissipate within a few hours.

We recommend drinking water or taking a cold shower. Some common side effects are nausea, headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, diarrhoea, euphoria, thought impairment, increase appetite, low blood pressure and increase heart rate. If you experience any side effects, please get in contact with your prescriber via telephone or via our contact us page.

Can I become addicted to Medical Cannabis, and does it cause withdrawal symptoms?

Medical Cannabis prescriptions that contain THC are typically prescribed in much lower dosages than recreational street cannabis, which reduces the likelihood of developing an addiction or experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Recreational street cannabis with high levels of THC has been found to carry a low risk of addiction. However, the risk of addiction is still comparatively lower than that of potent painkillers like opioids.

Can I drink alcohol?

It is advisable to avoid consuming alcohol while taking your medication, as alcohol consumption can impair judgment in some cases.

Will I feel high?

For most patients, their initial prescription will be a balanced dose of THC and CBD (unless CBD is being obtained elsewhere). Our doctors adopt the “start low, go slow” approach to determine the appropriate dosage for your medical requirements. THC, which is responsible for the “high” sensation, may provide pain relief, alleviate anxiety and depression, stimulate appetite, and improve sleep for some patients who use Medical Cannabis.

Adverse reactions

As with most medicinal products, there is a risk of adverse reactions. Below are some of the adverse reactions to be aware of:

Disorientation
Dizziness
Euphoria
Confusion
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Allergic reaction
Irritation or rash
Somnolence (drowsiness of sleepiness)
Balance problems
Hallucination
Nausea
Paranoia
Asthenia
Fatigue
Anxiety
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Depression

Keep track of your condition and discuss any concerns with your consultant or doctor.

I have an allergy, will it interact with my medicine?

Please inform your doctor of any allergies you may have. Medical Cannabis oils are generally free from artificial colors, flavors, animal products, lactose, wheat, gluten, or preservatives. However, if you are allergic to cannabis or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which is derived from coconut or palm kernels, you should avoid consuming Medical Cannabis. In case of any allergic reactions, please consult your doctor immediately.

Work, Driving & Holidays

How do I request a travel letter?

If you require a travel letter to verify your patient status and Medical Cannabis prescription, please complete the Travel Document Request form here. Please provide your travel dates and destination so that our team can process your request accordingly. We recommend submitting your request at least two weeks before your travel date.

Can I drive?

This information has been provided and approved by the Cannabis Industry Council.

As a patient prescribed with a cannabis medicine, you can possess and take your medicine, and continue to drive a motor vehicle so long as:

you are not impaired
the cannabis medicine has been prescribed to you and this can be evidenced
you are following the directions provided by your specialist consultant and the instructions given by the manufacturer or distributor of the medicine

If you can provide sufficient evidence that you meet the criteria above, you have a statutory medical defence. You should not be arrested and have a defence to the offence of driving or being in charge of a motor vehicle with THC over the specified limit of 2μg/L in the blood.

Following the guidance in this leaflet and raising your statutory medical defence if you are stopped on the roadside, will help you to avoid unnecessary blood samples, arrest and potential prosecution.

1. Do not drive impaired

It is an offence to drive whilst impaired by medicines or for any other reason
It is the responsibility of all drivers, including patients, to consider whether they believe their driving is, or might be, impaired on any given occasion
Do not drive if you are experiencing sleepiness, poor coordination, impaired or slowed thinking, dizziness, or visual problems
Do not to drive when the risk of impairment may be temporarily increased, for example, when first starting, or when first increasing or reducing the dose of your medicine
Take particular care if you are taking other prescribed or over-the-counter medicines that could impair your driving or interact with your Medical Cannabis prescription to impair your driving
Take particular care if you have a developing medical condition that could increase the risk of the impairing side effects of your prescription (eg. a serious illness with recent marked weight loss)
Be aware that alcohol taken in combination with other impairing drugs can substantially increase the risk of accidents
The statutory medical defence cannot be used if a patient is impaired

2. Follow specialist and manufacturer guidance

You must follow the directions provided to you by your specialist consultant, including dosing instructions, use with other medicines (prescribed and over- the-counter) and impairment.
You must also follow any accompanying instructions (so far as consistent with any directions by your specialist consultant) given by the manufacturer or distributor of the medicine.

3. Carry Evidence

Carry the following up-to-date documentation with you in your vehicle:

A physical or digital copy of your most recent prescription
Photo ID, e.g. driver's licence
If possible, a physical or digital letter from your specialist confirming you are their patient

If you need to carry your medication with you, it must be in its original packaging, as dispensed by the pharmacist, with the label showing your name,.

What to do if you are stopped by the police

Remain calm, polite and compliant
There is no need to mention that you are prescribed a cannabis medicine unless the police suspect you have used cannabis or are impaired in some way
If the police suspect you have cannabis in your system, calmly inform them that you are legally prescribed a cannabis medicine, that you have a medical defence to exceed the limit and share your documentation with them
The police are now legally obligated to investigate your medical defence
If the police insist on a roadside swab to detect THC, remind them that you are legally prescribed a cannabis medicine (and legally permitted to possess the medication) and that preliminary tests are to identify the presence of illicit – not legal – controlled drugs
You may want to share the Guidance for Police (which includes a link to a full evidence pack) via the QR link on the next page
If the police continue to insist on a roadside swab, it may be best to take the test, remain calm and follow their instructions
If the police ask to conduct an impairment test you should comply, as failure to cooperate may amount to a separate criminal offence
If you are arrested and taken to a police station to be interviewed under caution, it is vital that you request representation by either a solicitor of your own choosing, or the duty solicitor. Inform the solicitor of your medical defence and the basis for it

Can I operate machinery?

Avoid operating or using heavy machinery while taking CBPMs. If you do feel lightheaded, dizzy, or sleepy or if you have double vision, do not drive, or use heavy machinery. You should not take part in any other activities where this could put yourself or others at risk. For further information please visit: www.gov.uk/drug-driving-law

Can I travel with my medication?

When travelling, it is important to be aware of the restrictions on bringing CBPMs in or out of the countries you are visiting. These medications are highly regulated and may not be legal to possess in certain countries, even with a prescription from a consultant. Therefore, we advise that you consult the government website of your destination country before travelling with your medication.

I am staying at a hotel, should I let them know I am a patient?

If you require written confirmation of your patient status to support your possession of medications, we can provide it to the relevant organisation upon request. However, please note that establishments have the right to establish their own guidelines on cannabis consumption, and it is recommended that you adhere to them.

What happens if my work drug tests me?

We strongly recommend that all patients inform their workplace about their Medical Cannabis treatment, and our clinic can provide documentation to support this. It is important to note that drug tests conducted by employers may detect THC, even in small amounts, for several days after consumption. While CBD is non-intoxicating, some products may contain trace amounts of THC that could still result in a positive test. It is crucial to understand that some professions, including truck drivers, pilots, and construction workers, may not accept any detectable levels of THC. We advise being transparent with your employer and seeking guidance from your union for further advice.

Storage & Disposing

How do I dispose of CBPMs?

It is important to dispose of any medication that has passed its expiry date. Your local NHS community pharmacy has safe bins where you can dispose of your medication. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak with our dispensary team.

Will my medication expire?

You can find the expiry date of the medicine on the product packaging.

How should I store my medication?

It is recommended to store your medication in its original packaging to maintain its legitimacy in case of any checks. Unless instructed otherwise, store the medication in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Keep the medication in an upright position and ensure the lid is tightly secured to prevent leakage or odours.

Smoking vs Vaporising

How do you vaporise Medical Cannabis?

Vaping Medical Cannabis involves heating the flower to a temperature where the active compounds in the flower boil and are converted into vapour, which is then inhaled. This is done using a dry herb vaporiser. You can learn more about using a vaporiser here.

Can I smoke my Medical Cannabis?

It is not permitted to smoke Medical Cannabis. Smoking involves combustion which can produce harmful by-products like tar and carbon monoxide that may pose risks to respiratory health. On the other hand, vaporising Medical Cannabis involves heating the plant material at a lower temperature to create a vapor that can be inhaled. This method significantly reduces the number of harmful by-products produced, making it a safer option for patients.

Smoking is more effective than vaping for me?

We strongly advise against smoking Medical Cannabis, as it is illegal and not recommended in any situation. Some patients may feel a greater ‘high’ when smoking compared with vapourising because smoking burns the cannabis at higher temperatures which causes greater cannabinoids to be released in a short space of time. In contrast, using a vaporizer heats the cannabis at a lower temperature, allowing it to release active compounds without creating smoke or ash. This method also helps to preserve the natural flavours and terpenes of the plant, making it a safer and more enjoyable option for patients.

Medical Cannabis & The Law

Is my treatment legal?

Medical Cannabis is legal in the UK but can only be prescribed for a chronic condition where two previous medications or treatments have failed. In November 2018, the UK government rescheduled cannabis-based medicinal products, moving them from Schedule 1 to Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. This change recognised that cannabis-based medicinal products have therapeutic benefits and can be prescribed by specialist doctors. You can learn more here.

What is my summary care record and why is it important?

A Summary Care Record (SCR) is an electronic record that contains essential information about a patient’s health, including their medications, allergies, and past medical history. It is available to authorized healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, who need access to the patient’s information to provide them with the best possible care.

We require your SCR to check you adhere to the legal requirement of having tried to or more previous treatments, medicines or therapies. During completion of the eligibility form, you can provide consent for our clinic team to request your record from your GP or you can request it directly from them.

What is classed as 2 forms of previous treatment, medication or therapy?

Any medication, therapy or treatment as prescribed by your GP, a Specialist Doctor or a licensed Practitioner counts towards your 2 previous treatments. If you have any queries, please contact our clinic.

Do I need to inform my employer about my Medical Cannabis?

We advise all patients to notify their workplace regarding their Medical Cannabis treatment. Our clinic is happy to provide documentation to support this. If your employer conducts a drug test, then it is possible to be positive for THC. These tests will detect very small amounts of THC, even days after consumption. CBD however is not intoxicating but some products may have a small percentage of THC in them and thus still produce a positive THC result.

Please note, for some professions any detectable THC is unaccepted. This can include professions such as truck drivers, pilots, and construction workers. We recommend being transparent with your employer and contacting your union for further advice.

My work has a no-drugs policy, can I still become a patient?

Despite Medical Cannabis being legal in the UK with a prescription since 2018, the answer to this question depends on the policies of your employer. In general, while medical cannabis may be legal in some places, employers are still allowed to have policies against drug use in the workplace, even if the use is for medical purposes.

However, some jurisdictions may have laws that protect Medical Cannabis patients from discrimination in the workplace. In these cases, an employer may be required to make reasonable accommodations for Medical Cannabis patients, such as allowing them to take breaks during the workday to consume cannabis or adjusting their duties to accommodate any side effects or impairments.

It’s important to speak with your employer and union to understand their policies and any potential accommodations that may be available to you as a Medical Cannabis patient.

Can I consume my medication in public?

It is legal and in line with the current laws to consume your Medical Cannabis prescription in public. However, the medication must be in its original packaging and we recommend having your prescription letter to hand, either digitally or printed. If you have any issues, feel free to contact our clinic.

Can I grow my own Medical Cannabis?

It is illegal for patients to cultivate Medical Cannabis on their own. All Medical Cannabis products provided by Mamedica are compliant with EU-GMP (European Union Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

What happens if I am stopped by the police?

All patients should carry their prescription in its original packaging and have their prescription letter to hand, either available in print or digitally. If you have any issues, please contact our clinic to confirm your patient status.

What is an unlicensed special medication?

In the UK, an unlicensed special medication is a medicine that is not licensed for use in the UK but can be provided to patients under certain circumstances. These medications are sometimes referred to as “specials.”

FAQs

General Questions

Consuming & Dosing

Cost of Medical Cannabis

Side Effects & Reactions

Work, Driving & Holidays

Storage & Disposing

Smoking vs Vaporising

Medical Cannabis & The Law

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