Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since November 2018, yet confusion and stigma still surround it. Many patients aren’t sure if it’s truly accessible, how prescriptions work, or whether using it could put them at risk.
Here’s everything you need to know about the current laws, who can prescribe it, and how to access treatment safely in 2025.
A Quick Recap: How We Got Here
For decades, cannabis was treated as a prohibited substance in the UK. That changed in 2018, when the government reclassified certain cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs), allowing specialist doctors to prescribe them for patients with genuine clinical need.
This decision was driven by high-profile cases, most notably children with severe epilepsy who responded well to cannabis-based treatments when all other medicines had failed.
What the Law Says in 2025
Medical cannabis is legal in the UK when:
It is prescribed by a doctor listed on the General Medical Council Specialist Register.
The product meets MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) quality standards.
It is intended for a genuine medical condition where other treatments have failed or caused adverse effects.
Recreational cannabis remains illegal. Possessing or using cannabis without a prescription can still result in legal consequences.
Who Can Prescribe It?
Specialist Consultants — These are hospital-level doctors with expertise in your specific condition. They make the initial prescription.
Shared Care — In some cases, once treatment is established, a GP may continue prescriptions under guidance from the specialist.
At Medibiss, your consultation is always with a licensed, registered clinician who understands the latest research, regulations, and treatment options.
Which Conditions Qualify?
There’s no official “list” of eligible conditions, but medical cannabis is typically considered for:
Chronic pain (including neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia)
Epilepsy (particularly treatment-resistant forms)
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Anxiety disorders
Sleep disorders
Symptoms related to cancer or its treatment
Your clinician will assess your medical history, current symptoms, and previous treatments to decide if cannabis-based medicine is appropriate.
How to Access Medical Cannabis Legally
1. Check Your Eligibility
Start with a free online screening. At Medibiss, we ask a few simple questions to see if you’re likely to qualify.
2. Have a Medical Consultation
If eligible, you’ll meet (via secure video call) with a prescribing clinician who will review your condition and explain your treatment options.
3. Receive Your Prescription
If approved, your prescription will be processed, and your medication will be delivered discreetly to your door.
Your Rights as a Patient
If you have a legal prescription, you:
Can possess and use medical cannabis as directed by your prescriber.
May travel within the UK with your medication, keeping it in original packaging and carrying proof of prescription.
Should not face legal penalties for THC levels in your system when driving, provided you are not impaired and can prove your prescription.
The Bottom Line
Yes, medical cannabis is legal in the UK, and more patients are accessing it every year. The key is doing it the right way: through a licensed prescriber, with a legal, high-quality product.
At Medibiss, we make that process simple, discreet, and safe, helping you access treatment without the stigma.
Ready to check your eligibility? Start your free assessment today.
