FAQs

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.

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.

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?

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.