Information for Patients

Medical Cannabis may help to relieve the symptoms of certain medical conditions. The most common conditions treated with Medical Cannabis are chronic pain, mental health conditions and insomnia. Medical Cannabis is also used in the management of some neurological and bowel conditions and in some aspects of cancer care.

Patients can access Medical Cannabis for these conditions if they have already tried two other medications that have not been suitable for them clinically.

Medical Cannabis is not routinely prescribed by the NHS. There have been a very limited number of cases of the NHS providing Medical Cannabis to patients. At the moment, patients need to access Medical Cannabis via the private sector, which they self fund.

To access Medical Cannabis in Cornwall through KernowCann, you will need to contact me to arrange an initial discussion - this has no cost. This discussion is to ensure that you are eligible to be treated with medical cannabis. Treatment with Medical Cannabis in the UK must be initiated by a consultant. I am very pleased to work with MyAccess Clinics and their team of consultants in order to provide initial consultation and ongoing consultant led care to my patients through MyAccess Clinics.

After our initial consultation you will have an assessment with a consultant and treatment will be initiated. You will require a review at regular intervals throughout their treatment.

In order for treatment to be initiated you will need to provide their Summary Care Record. This is a summary of your medical history, conditions and prescriptions from your GP. We need this in order to make sure that your treatment is suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Legal?

Medical Cannabis was legalised in the UK in November 2018.

It must be prescribed by a practitioner on the 'specialist register' or a prescribing practitioner under their direction, who is registered to do so.

It is a controlled drug and must only be used under the above prescribing conditions.

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How do I take it?

Medical Cannabis comes in several forms. Most commonly medical cannabis is taken as an oil under the tongue for a longer steadier effect, or as flower through a vape for more immediate and shorter acting effects. Medical cannabis is not smoked.

There are other methods such as vape cartridges and capsules. Your clinician will discuss the best options for you.

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How much does it cost?

The costs of treatment vary depending on prescriptions or how many consultations you need.

As a general rule treatment costs are between £90 - £199 per month.

Will I need to tell my GP?

You can refer yourself to most clinics but we will need you to contact your GP to ensure we have accurate and up to date medical information so that your prescriptions are correct and safe. We will need to see your Summary Care Record which can be requested easily from your GP. We will update your GP on your prescriptions with us.

Can I drive if I am taking Medical Cannabis?

You should never drive if your ability to do so safely is impaired. CBD won't impair your ability to drive but THC might. You should not drive if that is the case. There is a legal limit of THC for driving but testing is not an accurate science and may not reflect your ability at the time. For this reason it is best not to take THC when you know you need to drive but to plan your doses to ensure you are safe.

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Can I still take my other prescribed medications?

Overall most medicines are safe to take alongside Medical Cannabis. There are a few medicines that may interact with Medical Cannabis and we will make sure that we take a detailed look at all your current medications to make sure that it is safe for you to take Medical Cannabis.

What about side effects?

Cannabis is generally very well tolerated. THC has more side effects than CBD.

Is there anyone who can't take medical cannabis?

You should not take medical cannabis if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

There are some other circumstances in which medical cannabis or at least THC may not be suitable for a patient. We can discuss this on an individual basis.

Where is the evidence?

Medical evidence on medical cannabis is found on all journal databases. The government information on medical cannabis can be found here. A medical cannabis clinician can direct you to any further information you may require.

What if I need to travel?

Each country has different laws. Some will allow medical cannabis, some will only allow CBD and others will allow none at all. You will need to check with the embassy of the country to which you are travelling. We can provide you with a letter explaining your prescription for you to travel with also, if your destination country allow it.

Where will I get my prescriptions from?

Your prescriptions will be sent to a specialist pharmacy. There are several to choose from. They will send you a payment link and your medicines will be sent to you by secure delivery.

Isn't it just the same as illicit Cannabis?

Medical Cannabis is different to recreational/illicit cannabis. Medical Cannabis is cultivated with specific levels of THC and CBD. It is checked for quality, consistency and should be irradiated to exclude any bacteria that could be introduced into the body. We know what's in medical cannabis and can balance the THC and CBD content.