Medical Cannabis Safety: What Patients Should Know
Cannabis based medicines have been legal in the UK since 2018 when prescribed by a specialist clinician. For some patients, they may be considered after conventional treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
As with any prescription medicine, safety and appropriate clinical oversight are essential. Understanding how cannabis based medicines are regulated, prescribed, and monitored can help patients make informed decisions about their care.
This guide outlines key safety considerations for patients exploring cannabis based treatment in the UK.
Regulation in the UK
Cannabis based medicines prescribed in the UK are subject to strict regulatory oversight.
Prescriptions must be issued by a specialist clinician and medicines are dispensed through licensed UK pharmacies. Products supplied through regulated channels are typically produced under pharmaceutical manufacturing standards and undergo quality testing before being supplied to patients.
This process helps ensure that prescribed products meet defined standards for quality, consistency, and safety.
Understanding Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains a number of naturally occurring compounds known as cannabinoids. The two most widely studied are THC and CBD.
These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating a range of functions including mood, sleep, and pain perception.
Where treatment is considered appropriate, prescribing decisions are based on the individual patient’s condition, medical history, and previous treatment responses.
Safety Considerations for Patients
Start low and adjust gradually
Cannabinoid medicines can affect individuals differently. Clinicians typically begin with a conservative approach and adjust treatment based on patient response.
Use medicines as advised by your clinician
Patients should follow the guidance provided by their prescribing clinician and pharmacist regarding how the medicine should be used.
Report side effects
Possible side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, or dry mouth. Patients should report any concerns or persistent symptoms to their care team.
Driving considerations
UK law makes it an offence to drive while impaired by drugs, including prescribed medicines. Patients should follow the advice provided by their clinician regarding driving and medication use.
Safe storage
Prescription medicines should be kept in their original packaging and stored safely out of reach of children and pets.
Inform your clinician about other medicines
Patients should inform their clinician about all other medications, supplements, or treatments they are using so that potential interactions can be considered.
Common Misconceptions
There are a number of common misunderstandings about cannabis based medicines.
Medical cannabis and unregulated cannabis products are not the same. Medicines supplied through regulated clinical pathways are subject to pharmaceutical standards and quality control.
Not all cannabis based medicines produce intoxicating effects. Some products contain little or no THC.
Like any medicine, cannabis based treatments may not be suitable for everyone and require careful clinical assessment.
When Cannabis Based Medicines May Not Be Suitable
Cannabis based treatments may not be appropriate for all patients. A clinician may advise against treatment in certain situations, for example where there is a history of certain psychiatric conditions, during pregnancy, or where other medical factors make treatment unsuitable.
This is why a full medical consultation and review of medical history are essential before prescribing.
Clinical Oversight
Specialist clinics such as Keltoi Clinic provide clinician led consultations to assess whether treatment may be appropriate for an individual patient.
Where treatment is prescribed, patients are typically monitored through follow up reviews so that response, side effects, and ongoing suitability can be assessed.
Conclusion
Cannabis based medicines are one of several treatment options that may be considered in certain circumstances. As with any prescription medicine, careful clinical assessment, appropriate prescribing, and ongoing monitoring are important for patient safety.
Patients considering this type of treatment should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional and ensure they understand how their medication should be used and monitored.
Information provided for general guidance only. Individual suitability is assessed by a clinician.