FAQs
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What’s the difference between medical cannabis and medical marijuana?
Medical cannabis and medical marijuana refer to the same thing – cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) prescribed by a specialist doctor to manage specific medical conditions. However, medical cannabis is the correct and preferred medical term in the UK.
Alternative names like medical weed or medical pot are sometimes used informally, but they’re less accurate and often associated with illicit use. At Curaleaf Clinic, we use the term medical cannabis to reflect its clinical purpose and ensure clarity for patients.
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What’s the difference between recreational and medical cannabis?
Recreational cannabis is illegal in the UK. Medical cannabis, prescribed by specialists for certain health conditions, is legal with a private prescription. Unlike illicit cannabis, it meets strict quality standards and includes ongoing specialist care. For more information about illegal cannabis, read our blog: The Hidden Dangers of Illicit Cannabis.
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What is CBD and THC?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that influences the endocannabinoid system and other pathways like serotonin. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound in cannabis that is known for its potential to cause a “high” or euphoria. THC directly activates cannabinoid receptors, while CBD works indirectly and affects other chemicals in the brain, like serotonin and dopamine.
Medical cannabis may include a variety of cannabinoids, including combinations of THC and CBD. What is prescribed is tailored to each patient in line with their individual treatment goals. For more information, read our blog: CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
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What’s the difference between indica and sativa?
Indica and sativa are cannabis species. Indica was traditionally used for evening use and sativa for daytime. However, prescribers focus more on the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in a product than on plant species. For more information, read our blog: Indica vs. Sativa: What’s the Difference?
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What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) prescribed for specific health conditions. These include products like dried cannabis flower, oils, capsules, pastilles, and vape cartridges containing cannabinoids such as THC and/or CBD.
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How does medical cannabis work?
Medical cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates processes like mood, pain, and inflammation. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD help reduce the intensity and frequency of symptoms for some conditions.
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What is the endocannabinoid system?
The body has its own cannabis system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate mood, memory, appetite, sleep, pain, and inflammation. It plays a key role in maintaining overall balance and wellbeing.
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What can medical cannabis help with?
Medical cannabis can be considered for physical and mental health conditions where there is clinical evidence supporting its use, and only when standard treatments have not been effective.
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Does medical cannabis make you feel high?
Medical cannabis is prescribed to support patients with diagnosed mental and physical health conditions, not to induce a “high.” Clinicians work with patients to find the right dose to maximise benefits and minimise psychoactive effects, which we see as an adverse event.
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Why is some medical cannabis irradiated?
Medical cannabis flower or ‘flos’ must meet strict safety standards when prescribed for inhalation. Irradiation is a form of decontamination that may be used to remove harmful microbes naturally occurring on the plant to ensure it meets these safety standards. Not all flowers will need to undergo this process of decontamination. There is no evidence to suggest that irradiation dampens the clinical effect of the flower and it’s not shown to affect cannabinoids like THC or CBD. Irradiation is not unique to cannabis and is also used for certain plants and vegetables found in supermarkets.
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Is medical cannabis addictive and does it cause a withdrawal reaction?
Medical cannabis carries a lower risk of addiction compared to illicit cannabis and certain medications like opioids. Higher THC products can increase the risk of dependence if used daily and in large quantities, but this risk is carefully managed for legal patients by our multidisciplinary team. Patients at Curaleaf Clinic have regular check-ins with their specialist to ensure treatment is appropriate and progressing as it should.
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How does medical cannabis differ from products on the high street?
Medical cannabis products prescribed by our specialists have consistent quantities of medical grade CBD and/or THC and must meet strict manufacturing standards for safety. High street CBD oils or drinks, sold as wellness products, don’t need to meet these same regulations and have lower CBD levels. THC is only available with a prescription.
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Are there any potential side effects of medical cannabis?
The most common side effects include dry mouth, fatigue, sleepiness, and concentration impairment. Your clinician can explain a full list of potential side effects to be mindful of when prescribed medical cannabis.
It is important to report any adverse events as soon as possible so we can provide the necessary support. You can report an adverse reaction to your medication via your Curaleaf Clinic account under the “Report” section.
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Can I legally consume medical cannabis in public?
Patients prescribed medical cannabis are legally allowed to carry and consume their medicine in public, just like they would any other medicine. However, patients prescribed dried flower for use in a medical vaporiser can only consume it in public spaces where vaping is permitted.
When leaving home with your medication we advise you to keep your medicine in its original container and to carry photo identification and a copy of your prescription or clinic letter. You can access your clinic letters on the go through your Curaleaf Clinic online account.
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Is medical cannabis legal in the UK?
Yes, medical cannabis is legal when prescribed by a specialist doctor registered with the GMC. It was reclassified in 2018 to allow prescribing as a controlled drug. Curaleaf Clinic follows all required regulations.
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Can you drive while taking medical cannabis?
Like many medicines, medical cannabis can impair your driving ability by causing drowsiness and slowing reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents. The current legal limit for blood tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels is 2 micrograms/L. It is highly likely that if you have been prescribed medical cannabis containing THC, you will exceed this limit. Cannabidiol (CBD) only products have been shown to have no potential effect on driving reaction speed and risk of collision.
You only need to inform the DVLA if you have a notifiable medical condition or disability. You do not need to inform them about your prescription.
A statutory defence may apply if a car accident occurs where a specialist doctor has legally prescribed medical cannabis and driving performance was not impaired.
No matter your medication, you should never drive whilst impaired. Your dose and prescription can affect you differently from someone else, so you should always speak to your specialist doctor about possible impairment while taking your medication.
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Can I travel with medical cannabis?
Whether you can legally travel with your medical cannabis depends on the laws of your destination. Check with the embassy of the country you’re visiting to confirm its legality and required documentation. Curaleaf Clinic can provide a signed travel letter free of charge. Please request it via your profile in your clinic account at least 30 days before your trip to allow our doctors sufficient time to review the request and write the letter.
Bear in mind that some countries have strict penalties for possession, even with a prescription. If returning to the UK, ensure compliance with local laws.
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How long does medical cannabis stay in your system?
THC can appear in your blood within minutes and may remain detectable for over 28 days, as it’s stored in fat cells and released gradually. For more information, read our blog: How Long Does Cannabis Stay in Your System?
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How do I change consultants?
You will be assigned a consultant for your initial consultation who is a specialist in your condition. Follow up appointments will often be with a specialist pharmacist or GP. When booking any follow-up appointment online through your Curaleaf Clinic account you can select your preferred specialist and view their upcoming appointment availability.
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How do I reschedule an appointment?
If you need to book, cancel or reschedule an appointment you can do so quickly in the ‘Appointments’ tab of your Curaleaf Clinic account.
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Is there an extra fee for transferring patients from another medical cannabis clinic?
Patients transferring from another clinic can get their first two appointments free, when they join the Curaleaf Access Scheme and provide a copy of their clinic or discharge letter.
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Where does medical cannabis come from?
Medical cannabis available to patients in the UK comes from a variety of growers and manufacturers around the globe. The most common origins of medical cannabis plants are Europe, Canada, and Australia. In addition, there is some medical cannabis that is grown here in the UK. Regardless of where it is grown, all medical cannabis in the UK has to be manufactured in line with European Union standards on Good Manufacturing Practice.
Once a prescription for medical cannabis is written this will go to your chosen specialist pharmacy here in the UK for courier delivery direct to your door or a local nominated pharmacy.
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How do I get a repeat prescription for medical cannabis?
Log in to your Curaleaf Clinic account and use the ‘Prescriptions’ tab to request a repeat. Do this at least a week before running out. If you’re adjusting your dosage, include details of your current usage to ensure you get the right supply. Regular reviews with your clinician are required to continue or make changes to your plan.
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Will you notify my GP that I am a patient with your clinic?
If you are prescribed medical cannabis through Curaleaf Clinic, we will send a letter to your GP informing them of your new prescription. This is to ensure your medical records are up to date to help them provide the safest care to you.
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Are appointments in person or virtual?
All consultations are virtual, so you can speak to a specialist from the comfort of your home.
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How do I talk with my doctor about a referral for medical cannabis?
It is important to be honest with your doctor if you are considering medical cannabis so they can help you explore what’s best for you. They can help with your self-referral by sharing your medical history and previous treatments. If they cannot assist, you can self-refer directly to Curaleaf Clinic.
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How do I become a medical cannabis patient?
You can self-refer by completing our online eligibility form through your Curaleaf Clinic account. Alternatively, your healthcare professional can refer you using our referral form. We’ll need:
- Your medical records (you can provide them, or we can retrieve them for you).
- Photographic ID (e.g., passport or driver’s licence).
- A signed treatment agreement.
Using your NHS login can speed up the process for patients in England. If you’re transferring from another medical cannabis clinic, your first two appointments are free when you join our Curaleaf Access Scheme – just provide your clinic or discharge letters.
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How do I make a complaint?
We take complaints seriously. You can:
- Call us on 020 7459 4075
- Email us at [email protected]
- Find more details in our complaints leaflet
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How will my data and the outcomes of treatment help others in the future?
By contributing to the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, your data helps improve the evidence base for medical cannabis. It may inform clinical trials and future government funding for related research in the UK.
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How do I book an appointment at Curaleaf Clinic?
Start by completing our online eligibility form and sharing your medical records. Eligible patients will be invited to book an initial appointment with a specialist in their condition. Repeat appointments can be easily booked online through your Curaleaf Clinic account.
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How do I know if I’m eligible for treatment?
We see patients with conditions where clinical evidence supports the use of medical cannabis and where standard treatments haven’t worked. We don’t prescribe during pregnancy or when breastfeeding, and extra consideration may be needed when there is a history of psychosis or unstable cardiovascular disease. A specialist will review your medical history to decide if treatment is suitable. If a consultation is not currently appropriate, you will receive an email outlining the decision and any next steps.
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Can I return my medication if there’s an issue with it?
All medical cannabis in the UK is manufactured to meet strict safety guidelines and goes through quality checks to ensure it meets these. However, if you have concerns about your medicine, please take photos and email your complaint to your pharmacy for further investigation with the supplier. Please do not dispose of the product and continue to store it in accordance with the instructions as this may need to be returned to the supplier. If a collection is requested, we will contact you to arrange a suitable date. Please be advised that a collection does not guarantee a refund or replacement, and the product cannot be legally returned to yourself.
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How long can I keep my medical cannabis?
Shelf life depends on the product and storage. Check the expiration date on the label and store it properly to maintain quality. If unsure, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
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What should I do if I forget or miss a dose?
If you remember within a few hours, take the medication as prescribed. Do not double dose to make up for missed doses. If you stop taking medical cannabis for a prolonged period, get back in touch with our clinical team to allow us to support you in taking the right dose.
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Can I have the same medication prescribed at a past clinic?
Our specialists can prescribe any medicine that is in stock, clinically appropriate for the individual, and that meets safety standards. Eligible, active patients can view our formulary in their Curaleaf Clinic account and discuss the most appropriate medication with their specialist during their consultations.
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How long will my prescription last?
The regulations in the UK state that controlled medications, such as medical cannabis should only be prescribed for 1 month at a time. As such, your prescription will be issued in line with your monthly maximum dose (across all medications, not per product). If you find you are needing to use more than your prescribed maximum dose, please book in for a review with one of our clinical team to discuss increasing your dose or changing your medication to something more suitable.
You can manage requests for your medication simply using your Curaleaf Clinic account.
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What types of medical cannabis do you prescribe?
At Curaleaf Clinic, prescriptions are tailored to each patient based on their unique clinical needs. As such, the product may be prescribed in any number of formats to best support patients. The most common are dried flower or “flos” for vaporising, oils to be placed under the tongue, and pastilles to be sucked or chewed. You will work closely with your specialist to find the right medicine and formulation for you.
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What are the general guidelines for storing medical cannabis?
- Store in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Keep it in the original packaging to protect it.
- Store upright to prevent spills.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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Can I transfer my medical cannabis to a different container?
No, it’s best to keep your medication in the original container to maintain freshness and prevent exposure to light, air, or moisture.
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Why is the proper storage of medical cannabis so important?
Proper storage preserves the quality of your medicine, prevents degradation, and reduces the risk of contamination.
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Do I need a medical cannabis card?
No, medical cannabis cards aren’t legally required in the UK. If you carry your medication, make sure to also have:
- A copy of your clinic letter or prescription.
- Photo ID matching your prescription.
- The medication in its original pharmacy-labelled container.
Avoid leaving your medication unattended, and carry supporting documents even if you’re not carrying the medication.
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Is medical cannabis available on the NHS?
Medical cannabis is rarely prescribed on the NHS. It is limited to specific cases of severe epilepsy, multiple sclerosis-related spasticity and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Most eligible patients will need to register with a private clinic, such as Curaleaf Clinic, to access this medicine.
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How much does medical cannabis cost in the UK?
The overall cost, including medicine, will depend on your individual needs and dosage. For consultation pricing, check our pricing page or reach out to [email protected] for more information.
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Who can prescribe medical cannabis in the UK?
Only specialists on the GMC register can start a patient on medical cannabis. Prescriptions are made on a ‘named patient’ basis, following strict protocols for controlled drugs. Curaleaf Clinic fully complies with these regulations.
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How long will medical cannabis take to work?
This varies by individual and medication type. Some patients may notice gradual improvements, while others take a few months to find the right care plan. Medical cannabis will not work for everyone, but our specialists are here to support you.
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Can I apply medical cannabis oil to my skin?
Medical cannabis oils prescribed at Curaleaf Clinic will not have the desired effect if applied to the skin. They are intended to be taken and held sublingually (under the tongue).
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How do I use medical cannabis oil?
Instructions for how to take prescribed medical cannabis oils will be provided by your clinician and should be closely followed to ensure the right dose is effectively administered.
Medical cannabis oils are prescribed to be taken sublingually (under the tongue), and left there for as long as it is comfortable (it should be absorbed in up to 10 minutes). The aim is allowing the oil to be absorbed by the lining of your mouth.
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What medical-grade vaporisers do you recommend?
There are three vaporisers that have been given certification as compliant medical devices by UK bodies:
- Volcano Medic 2
- Mighty + Medic
- Mighty Medic
If you would like us to prescribe one of these devices please request this at your next appointment or email us at [email protected]
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Why is smoking medical cannabis illegal in the UK?
It is illegal to smoke your medical cannabis prescription and doing so invalidates your prescription in the eyes of the law. The rule is in place to protect patients from the known health risks associated with smoking. Patients who are prescribed dried flower will need to use a medically approved vaporiser.
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How do I take medical cannabis?
This will vary for each person depending on what is prescribed to them. The most common formulations are whole cannabis flower and vape cartridges to be vaporised, and oils, capsules, and pastilles which are taken orally.
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Does medical cannabis smell?
This is a common question for new patients. The smell of medical cannabis will depend on the product. Products such as oils, capsules, and pastilles have less of an odour and are more discreet. However, whole cannabis flower can emit a natural smell, particularly when vaporised. Your specialist will help you find a formulation that best suits your needs and treatment goals.
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Can you smoke medical cannabis?
No, smoking medical cannabis is not allowed and invalidates your prescription. In the UK, medical cannabis flowers must be used with a medical-grade vaporiser. Vaporising is less harmful than smoking, which produces harmful chemicals and alters the plant’s active compounds.
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How do I cancel my subscription?
You can cancel your subscription in your Curaleaf Clinic account. Go to your profile and click on “Subscription” and select “Cancel Subscription”. Your subscription is subject to a 3-month notice period from the date of cancellation, so three further payments will be taken.
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What are Curaleaf Clinic’s opening hours?
Curaleaf Clinic support lines are open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Appointments may happen outside of these core hours, subject to clinician availability. To get in touch, you can:
- Call us on 020 7459 4075
- Email us at [email protected] or live chat in your clinic account.
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How do I reset my password for my Curaleaf Clinic account?
If you have forgotten your password or would like to change your password, please go to app.curaleafclinic.com/sign-in, select “Forgotten Password” and follow the steps.
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What is my Curaleaf Clinic account and how do I log in?
Once accepted as a patient, you will be invited to book a consultation and will be sent a unique link to set up your online account.
Keeping on top of your care is made simple through your clinic account. You can:
- Book, cancel or rearrange clinic appointments
- View the formulary
- Request repeat medication
- Report any adverse events
- Track your health over time
- View guides on how to take medication and other useful resources
You can sign into your account by visiting app.curaleafclinic.com/sign-in