Table of Contents
ToggleThe plant known as Cannabis, which has been used for both medical and recreational reasons for a long time, has become a topic of discussion and curiosity in the UK. The UK’s attitude on Cannabis has changed significantly in recent years, especially with the legalisation of medicinal Cannabis. This piece will provide a thorough analysis of cannabis usage in the UK, with a particular emphasis on medical Cannabis and its many uses. We will also go into the legal framework of cannabis usage, its possible advantages and disadvantages, and how to use Cannabis therapeutically.
Understanding Cannabis
What is Cannabis?
For thousands of years, Cannabis has been utilised for many reasons. It includes several chemicals, but THC and CBD are the most well-known and investigated. These chemicals cause plant impacts on humans.
Cannabis Strains
The UK divides cannabis strains into Sativa, Indica, and Hybrids. Sativa strains motivate and energise, whereas Indica strains soothe and sedate. Combining Sativa and Indica traits, Hybrids have a variety of effects.
Modes of Consumption
Cannabis may be taken in several ways, such as:
Smoking
The most conventional way involves rolling the dried flowers, or buds, into a joint or smoking them in a pipe. It is a preferred choice for recreational users seeking an immediate high
Vaporisation
Vaporisers lower the hazards of smoking by heating Cannabis to release its active ingredients without burning. Vaping offers users a cleaner and smoother experience, reducing the risks to respiratory health compared to smoking. With the advent of portable vaporisers and vape pens, individuals have greater control over their cannabis intake.
Edibles
When ingested, cannabis-infused goods like brownies, cookies, or gummies provide a subtle and durable high. These items offer delayed onset of effects, often taking anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours to fully kick in
Oils and Tinctures
These are potent cannabis liquid extracts that are meant to be taken sublingually or under the tongue. Tinctures offer users a convenient way to control their dosage, as they can be easily measured using a dropper. Both oils and tinctures provide a discreet and smoke-free option for individuals who prefer a more controlled cannabis experience.
Topicals
Creams and lotions containing Cannabis are administered topically and have the potential to alleviate regional pain and inflammation.
Medical Cannabis in the UK
The Legal Framework
The UK government changed things significantly in November 2018 when it authorised the use of medicinal Cannabis in certain situations. It’s crucial to remember that cannabis usage for recreational purposes is still prohibited.
In the UK, a patient must have an unmet clinical need that traditional medicine is unable to address to be eligible for medicinal Cannabis sufficiently. Only specialised doctors have the authority to prescribe medical Cannabis, and even then, the treatment they recommend must be unregistered and not easily obtained over the counter.
Conditions Treated with Medical Cannabis
Medical Cannabis is utilised in the UK to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
-
- Chronic pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as discomfort brought on by diseases like multiple sclerosis.
-
- Epilepsy, particularly severe forms that are unresponsive to traditional treatments.
-
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
-
- Muscle spasms and spasticity in conditions like multiple sclerosis.
-
- Inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s disease.
-
- Mental illnesses, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.
How to Use Medical Cannabis in the UK
Â
Discussion with an Expert
In the UK, you have to see a specialist doctor before using medical Cannabis. Medical professionals with training prescribe medical Cannabis. When determining if medicinal Cannabis is suitable for you, the doctor will consider your health and medical history.
Authorisation, Amount
The specialist physician will describe the product and dosage if they recommend medical Cannabis for your condition. Pay attention to the dosage and let your doctor know if anything goes wrong or if your symptoms change.
Locating Medical Cannabis
You may obtain medical Cannabis from a licensed clinic or chemist with a prescription. The recommended substance will be provided in the form of oil, tincture, or cannabis flowers from the chemist or clinic.
Observation and Modifications
Users of medical Cannabis must see their specialists frequently. They will monitor your development, adjust your dosage, and respond to any concerns.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Many ailments may be treated with medical Cannabis. Among the potential benefits are:
Pain Control
Given that it may be helpful in reducing chronic pain, Cannabis is a fantastic substitute for those who suffer from conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis.
Control of Seizures
Some cannabis-based drugs have shown promise in controlling epilepsy sufferers’ seizures. The active compounds in cannabis is known for regulating neuronal activity and reducing the frequency and intensity of seizures.
Relieving Nausea and Vomiting
Chemotherapy side effects may be lessened by medical Cannabis, which makes cancer treatment more bearable. The cannabinoids present in cannabis interact with the body to regulate the queasy sensations that often accompany illness or medical interventions.
Reduction of Muscle Spasticity
It helps those who suffer from diseases like multiple sclerosis, where muscular stiffness is a significant problem. Medical cannabis provides a natural alternative to traditional muscle relaxants, often with fewer side effects, allowing individuals to manage their condition more effectively and regain a sense of control over their daily activities.
Stress and PTSD
Some individuals discover that using medicinal Cannabis helps control their anxiety and PTSD symptoms. The cannabinoids in cannabis interact with the brain’s receptors, regulating emotional responses and promoting a sense of relaxation. For individuals dealing with anxiety and intrusive memories, medical cannabis offers a potential therapeutic avenue.
Risks and Side Effects
Despite the many advantages that medicinal Cannabis provides, there are also possible hazards and adverse effects. Typical adverse effects might be:
-
- Wooziness
-
- Chapped lips
-
- Tiredness
-
- Alterations in appetite
Furthermore, strong or prolonged cannabis usage might result in:
-
- Deficiencies in cognition, particularly in teenagers
-
- Symptoms of dependency and withdrawal
It is essential that patients assess the possible advantages and disadvantages of medicinal cannabis use, and medical professionals regularly monitor patients to manage side effects and potential hazards appropriately.
Future Developments and Research
UK medicinal cannabis usage is still developing. Therefore, study and development are anticipated. Interests and prospects include:
Further clinical trials
Medical Cannabis must be tested in further clinical studies to determine its effectiveness and ideal doses and delivery. By investing in comprehensive clinical trials, the scientific community can bridge existing knowledge gaps, refine treatment strategies, and ultimately unlock the full medicinal potential of cannabis, ensuring evidence-based practices that benefit patients globally.
Expanding Eligibility
Medical Cannabis may be recommended for more ailments as the study continues to reflect more inclusive approach to healthcare and ensures that patients suffering from a wider array of ailments can benefit from the potential healing properties of cannabis.
Patients’ Education
Safe and successful medicinal cannabis usage requires thorough patient, healthcare professional, and public education. Enhanced education equips patients with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare, including understanding the risks, benefits, and appropriate usage of cannabis-based treatments
Changes in regulations
Medical cannabis regulation may change, making it more available to individuals who need it. Regulatory changes are pivotal in promoting responsible use, ensuring product quality, and eliminating the stigma associated with cannabis, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of its medicinal potential within the broader healthcare landscape.
Conclusion
Cannabis, formerly stigmatised and illegal, is now essential in UK medicine. Medical Cannabis gives people with varied ailments hope and treatment choices. Patients may investigate medicinal cannabis’ advantages while controlling risks and adverse effects with the help of specialists.
Medical cannabis research, availability, and awareness will improve UK knowledge and usage of this plant for medicinal reasons. Patients and healthcare providers must keep current to make educated choices about restorative cannabis therapy.