It’s natural to have questions when considering a new medication, and for many exploring medical cannabis, a common query is about its effects, particularly the feeling often described as a “high.” While cannabis has a long history of medicinal use globally and became legal for medical purposes in the UK in 2018, it also carries associations with recreational use and popular culture stereotypes.
At Curaleaf Clinic, we believe it’s essential for patients to have clear, accurate information about their treatment options. Understanding how medical cannabis works and what effects it might have helps you make informed decisions about your health, free from stigma. In this blog, we’ll discuss the potential effects of medical cannabis and what contributes to the psychoactive experiences sometimes linked with cannabis.
What to expect from medical cannabis
Unlike unregulated or illegal forms of cannabis, medical cannabis is carefully produced, tested, and regulated to ensure its quality and safety for patient use. Medical cannabis interacts with your body’s own endocannabinoid system, a complex network that helps regulate various bodily functions, including mood, pain sensation, and inflammation. For some patients, it is prescribed to help manage the intensity and frequency of persistent symptoms related to their health conditions.
As with most medicines, the effects of medical cannabis can vary greatly from person to person. Factors such as your individual physiology, medical history, and the dose and type of medicine prescribed all play a role.
Some medical cannabis prescriptions may include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound that can contribute to feelings of euphoria, or a “high” when consumed in larger quantities. At Curaleaf Clinic, we see feeling ‘high’ as an adverse, or negative, event. Our goal is to support your well-being and help you feel in control of your health. If your treatment plan includes THC, we will work closely with you, starting with a low dose and making careful adjustments to help achieve the desired therapeutic effects whilst minimising the risk of side effects.
Can medical cannabis make you high?
Any medical cannabis product containing THC has the potential to produce effects, sometimes described as a “high.” In a medical context, our focus is on managing the symptoms of diagnosed conditions. For some patients, these euphoric effects might be an unwanted side effect that we aim to minimise.
If THC is considered an appropriate part of your treatment, your clinician will typically begin with a very low dose, which can then be slowly increased over time. This careful approach helps us to identify the most beneficial dose while aiming to limit any potential unwanted effects.
Regular check-ins with our clinical team are also an important part of the process, allowing us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
What is THC and how is it used in medical cannabis?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the natural compounds found in the cannabis plant. It interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, particularly with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are associated with mood, memory, coordination, and inflammation.
In the UK, THC is a controlled substance and is only legal when prescribed for medical use under specific conditions. It’s important to note that not all medical cannabis products contain THC; some solely contain other compounds like CBD. Alongside CBD, there is growing evidence for the use of THC in chronic pain, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, and insomnia.
Medical cannabis side effects
Like all medications, medical cannabis may be associated with some side effects. The most commonly reported include:
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness
- Temporary difficulties with concentration
At Curaleaf Clinic, patients have regular check-ins with their consultant, GP, or pharmacist to monitor their health and progress over time. If you experience any unwanted effects or have concerns, please report them to us immediately so we can provide support and adjust your treatment as needed.
A word from our team
“We understand that navigating new treatment options can come with many questions. Our team is here to provide clear, compassionate guidance and support you on your healthcare journey. We are committed to helping you understand your medical cannabis treatment so you can make confident decisions about your health and well-being. Furthermore, Curaleaf Clinic is dedicated to leading the way with clinical research, to continuously improve the care we deliver to our patients.”
Dr. Simon Erridge, Research Director at Curaleaf Clinic
