What Does the UK Think of Medical Cannabis Use?

The United Kingdom has witnessed significant changes in public perception, legislation, and medical practice concerning the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes. While the UK has traditionally maintained strict drug policies, recent years have seen a gradual shift in attitudes toward medical cannabis. This article explores the evolving perspective on medical cannabis in the UK, examining the historical context, legal changes, public opinion, and the current state of medical cannabis use.

Historical Context

Historically, the UK has maintained a stringent stance against cannabis, classifying it as a Schedule 1 drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This classification placed cannabis alongside substances like heroin, indicating that it had no recognised medicinal value and a high potential for abuse. These laws not only hindered research into cannabis’s therapeutic potential but also posed challenges for patients seeking alternative treatments.

Legal Changes: The Turning Point

The turning point in the UK’s approach to medical cannabis came in November 2018 when the government announced a change in policy. Former Home Secretary Sajid Javid introduced new regulations that allowed specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based products for patients with specific medical conditions. This landmark decision marked the first official recognition of cannabis’s therapeutic potential in the UK.

Under the new regulations, medical cannabis could be considered for patients with severe epilepsy, chronic pain, or nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. However, the prescribing process was highly restrictive, requiring a specialist doctor to navigate a complex approval process. This limited the accessibility of medical cannabis and drew criticism from patient advocacy groups who argued that the system remained burdensome.

Public Opinion and Awareness

Public opinion on medical cannabis in the UK has been shifting in recent years, partly due to increased awareness of its potential benefits. The testimonies of patients who experienced relief from debilitating conditions through medical cannabis have contributed to changing perceptions. Media coverage and documentaries highlighting these stories have played a critical role in raising awareness and challenging long-held stigmas.

Surveys suggest that a majority of the UK public supports the use of medical cannabis. A 2019 poll conducted by YouGov found that 69% of respondents supported the legalisation of medical cannabis. This growing support reflects a broader trend of acceptance, mirroring developments in other countries that have embraced medical cannabis programs.

Changes in Challenges and Limitations

Despite the change in policy, challenges and limitations initially persisted in the UK’s approach to medical cannabis.

Limited Doctors Prescribing It

The limited number of specialist doctors willing to prescribe medical cannabis and the restrictive approval process hindered patient access. However, this isn’t necessarily the case now. For UK residents interested in exploring medical cannabis as a treatment option, it is slightly easier than a few years ago.

Patients simply need to consult their general practitioner (GP), who can refer them to a specialist doctor if appropriate. Specialist doctors, typically neurologists and pain specialists, are more knowledgeable and can prescribe medical cannabis products if they deem it necessary for the patient’s wellbeing. All you need to do is be open and honest with healthcare professionals about symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments tried.

Lack of Research

Another significant challenge is the lack of research on the long-term effects of medical cannabis. The stringent regulations surrounding cannabis have impeded scientific investigation into its efficacy and safety. This knowledge gap has left healthcare professionals with limited data to inform their decisions and recommendations regarding medical cannabis.

However, research is ongoing even to this day to ensure that there is enough evidence to support claims.

Stigma

Despite changes in the laws, there is still some stigma surrounding medical cannabis use. While healthcare professionals prescribe medical cannabis for the treatment of specific medical conditions, many people, when they think of cannabis, think of it as the recreational version that is used for non-medical purposes, such as relaxation or social enjoyment. The differentiation ensures that patients receive the necessary treatment without the risk of misuse or diversion. As recreational cannabis is illegal, those who use it may have concerns about getting arrested if caught by the police and may not want to embark on this path.

However, thanks to the introduction of medical cards, more people can feel more confident carrying around their medicine without getting into trouble with the police. To start this process, individuals should consult a specialist doctor who can assess their medical condition and, if appropriate, prescribe medical cannabis.

After receiving a prescription, patients can apply for a medical cannabis UK card, which serves as official documentation of their legal right to use medical cannabis. This card provides legal protection and ensures that patients can purchase their prescribed medication from licensed dispensaries without fear of legal repercussions. It’s essential to adhere to the regulations and guidelines specific to the region, ensuring that all necessary documents are submitted accurately and promptly to obtain the medical card legally and safely.

Recent Developments and Ongoing Debates

Since the initial policy change, there have been ongoing debates and discussions about the UK’s medical cannabis program. In 2021, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published updated guidelines, expanding the range of conditions for which medical cannabis could be considered. These guidelines offered a glimmer of hope for patients with conditions like chronic pain and spasticity. More information detailing the differences between recreational cannabis and medical cannabis has helped persuade the UK of this change in policy.

Conclusion: The Future of Medical Cannabis in the UK

The UK’s evolving stance on medical cannabis reflects changing attitudes and growing awareness of its potential benefits. While progress has been made, challenges remain in terms of accessibility, affordability, and research. The future of medical cannabis in the UK will likely depend on continued advocacy, policy reforms, and a commitment to evidence-based practice.

As public support for medical cannabis grows, the UK may see further changes in legislation and regulation, potentially expanding access to those who could benefit from this alternative form of medicine. In the coming years, ongoing research and clinical trials will provide a comprehensive understanding of the efficacy and safety of medical cannabis, ultimately shaping the future of medical cannabis use in the UK.