Topical

Topical medicines are medicines that are applied externally to the skin, rather than being inhaled or ingested. They are used to deliver active ingredients to specific areas of the body without affecting the entire system. In the case of medical cannabis, they are used to deliver cannabinoids to localised areas to affect symptoms such as pain or inflammation.

No, topical medicines aren’t taken orally. They are designed to be applied to the surface of the skin, not ingested.

Most cannabis-based topicals available in the UK—such as creams and balms sold on the high street—contain low levels of cannabidiol CBD and are classified as cosmetic, food or wellness products, not medicines.

Unlike prescribed medical cannabis products, the CBD products sold on the high street are not subject to the same level of regulation. They can vary in strength, purity, and labelling accuracy, and should not be used as a substitute for prescribed treatments.

Cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) are typically poorly absorbed through the skin so most products are altered to improve how well these can be absorbed.

In the UK, some cannabis-based topicals containing low levels of CBD—such as creams and balms—can be legally purchased on the high street as cosmetic or wellness products.

Medical-grade cannabis products are only legal when prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional. The most commonly prescribed formats include oils, pastilles, and dried flower for vaporisation, but topical formulations are also available for appropriate patients.

Medical cannabis oil prescribed for sublingual use (under the tongue) is not intended to be applied directly to the skin. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and only use medical cannabis products as directed.