Medical Cannabis in the UK: Who Qualifies and How to Access It

Can You Access Medical Cannabis in the UK?

Yes — but under strict rules. Since 1 November 2018, doctors on the GMC Specialist Register can prescribe cannabis-based medicines if:

• You have a condition where evidence supports potential benefits.
• Conventional treatments have not worked or aren’t tolerated.
• A specialist doctor judges it appropriate.

Who May Qualify?

Conditions with stronger evidence:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Nabiximols (Sativex®) for spasticity.
• Severe epilepsies: CBD oral solution (Epidyolex®) for Dravet, Lennox–Gastaut, or TSC.
• Chemotherapy-induced nausea: Nabilone when standard medicines fail.
• Chronic Pain: Routine prescribing is not NHS standard, but private specialists may consider cannabis-based medicines in cases where other pain treatments have failed.

How Access Works — The Iyos Pathway

At Iyos Pharmacy, we make the process simple and safe:

1. Pre-check: Fill out our eligibility form and arrange an introduction call with our expert team.
2. Specialist consultation: You meet with a doctor on the GMC Specialist Register.
3. Prescription: If appropriate, a prescription is issued.
4. Dispensing with Iyos: We provide your medication, explain dosing, and check for interactions.
5. Follow-up: Ongoing reviews ensure the medicine is still the right fit.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. We connect you with trusted clinics and provide ongoing pharmacy support once prescribed.

NHS vs Private Clinics

• NHS: Very limited, usually only for severe epilepsy, MS spasticity, or intractable nausea.
• Private: More accessible, but still specialist-led. Costs vary, but safety and monitoring are always essential.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Only a specialist doctor can decide whether medical cannabis is appropriate for you. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment.