Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) have been legally available on prescription in the UK since November 2018. This change followed advice from the Chief Medical Officer, who recognised the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis-based medicines.
Cannabis has been used for medical purposes for thousands of years. The first modern medical reference to its effects appeared in 1840 in relation to seizures. Today, CBMPs are carefully regulated to ensure they meet strict safety and quality standards.
But what exactly are CBMPs, and how do they differ from other cannabis products?
What Are CMBPs?
CBMPs are prescription medicines made from cannabis plant extracts. They are designed specifically for medical use and must meet strict regulatory standards set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) .
A CBMP must:
- Contain cannabis or its derivatives (such as cannabis resin or cannabinol).
- Be produced for medicinal use in humans.
- Meet safety and quality regulations set by the MHRA.
CBMPs include natural cannabis extracts but do not include synthetic cannabis-like medicines, such as nabilone or dronabinol. These synthetic compounds mimic some effects of THC but are manufactured differently.
CBMPs are not the same as over-the-counter CBD oils. CBD wellness products are regulated as “novel foods” by the Food Standards Agency rather than as medicines, so may not contain the quantity or quality of CBD required for therapeutic use. Similarly, cannabis obtained illegally is completely unregulated, meaning its quality and safety are unknown.
Why Are There So Many Terms for Medical Cannabis?
You might have heard terms like medical cannabis, medical marijuana, or even medical weed. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they have different origins and meanings.
In the UK, the preferred terms are medical cannabis or cannabis-based products for medicinal use in humans, as defined by the Home Office. The term cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) is also widely used in clinical settings. These terms help distinguish prescribed cannabis-based treatments from illicit cannabis use.
Here’s a quick look at some other common terms and their origins:
- Marijuana: This term originates from the Mexican Spanish word “marihuana.” It became widely used in the United States during the 20th century, particularly after the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act. Some believe the term was popularised to exploit negative attitudes towards Mexican immigrants at the time.
- Weed: Often used colloquially, “weed” may stem from its association with locoweed, a toxic plant in North America. This term gained popularity in the 20th century and remains common today.
- Pot: The origin of this term is unclear, though some suggest it’s linked to the phrase “potación de guaya” (potion of grief), a cannabis-infused drink made in the early 20th century.
While these terms are familiar to the public, they’re avoided in medical settings because they lack precision and can carry unhelpful stereotypes. At Curaleaf Clinic, we always use the terms medical cannabis and CBMPs.
Conclusion
CBMPs are regulated medicines. Unlike illicit cannabis, they are prescribed by doctors and tailored to individual medical needs.
At Curaleaf Clinic, we’re here to help eligible patients understand medical cannabis and whether it may be suitable for you. If you’d like to learn more, get in touch with our team today.
Sources
Legislation.gov.uk. (2018). The Misuse of Drugs (Amendments) (Cannabis and Licence Fees) (England, Wales and Scotland) Regulations 2018. [online] Available at: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/1055/made.
The supply, manufacture, importation and distribution of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use in humans ‘specials’. (n.d.). Available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/869284/Cannabis_Guidance__unlicensed_CBPMs__updated_2020.pdf.
