While medical cannabis is not a cure for cancer, it has long been recognized as an effective treatment option for managing cancer symptoms and the side effects of its treatments. It can be a powerful addition to any holistic cancer treatment plan.

Current NHS Prescriptions for Medical Cannabis

The NHS prescribes medical cannabis for three specific health concerns:

• Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy

• Multiple sclerosis

• Two rare forms of treatment-resistant epilepsy

Despite the restrictive nature of these prescriptions, the NHS acknowledges the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis. In contrast, private clinics can prescribe cannabis-based medical products for a broader range of health issues, including pain, anxiety, appetite, and sleep issues commonly associated with cancer treatment.

Access and Cost

Private prescriptions for medical cannabis may incur costs, but they remain accessible for most UK residents. These prescriptions provide an effective and safe way to access medical cannabis for those in need.

Medical Cannabis Card

Although a medical cannabis card is not legally required in the UK, it can ensure patients’ protection and safety from potential legal issues. This card can be especially beneficial for patients receiving cannabis-based treatments.

How Medical Cannabis Helps Cancer Patients

Medical cannabis is not a cancer cure but can manage symptoms such as pain, nausea, and anxiety. Cannabis has a long history of medical applications, dating back to 2800 BC in Chinese medicine. Ancient civilizations, including Indian Hindus, Assyrians, Greeks, and Romans, also documented its therapeutic potential for various health issues.

Clinical Research on Medical Cannabis and Cancer Symptoms

Pain Management: A 2020 clinical review titled “Cannabis and cannabinoids in cancer pain management” found strong observational evidence and good preclinical animal data supporting the efficacy of cannabinoids in managing cancer pain. Both anecdotal evidence and other clinical studies support this potential action.

Nausea Management: Studies like “An efficient new cannabinoid antiemetic in paediatric oncology” (1995) and “Cannabinoids for control of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: quantitative systematic review” (2001) concluded that cannabinoids effectively control chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting better than conventional antiemetics.

Anxiety and Sleep: A 2019 study, “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series,” showed that almost 80% of the 72 adult participants found CBD products remarkably effective in treating anxiety and insomnia.

Understanding Medical Cannabis Prescriptions for Cancer

The process for obtaining a medical cannabis prescription for cancer-related health issues involves:

1. Completing a medical questionnaire and providing relevant medical history, including a Summary Care Report from your GP.

2. Attending a consultation with a licensed doctor to assess suitability and discuss treatment options.

3. Receiving a prescription from an approved pharmacy.

Private clinics specializing in medical cannabis treatments can facilitate this process, often providing a Releaf Medical Cannabis Card for additional protection and ease of access to treatments.

Challenges and Limitations

Patients must adhere to specific prescriptions and cannot adjust treatments without consulting their specialist. Medical cannabis products must be prescribed by a licensed doctor, and over-the-counter CBD options lack the regulatory oversight of medical cannabis products.

Best Practices for Medical Cannabis Treatment

To achieve positive health outcomes, it is essential to:

• Follow the doctor’s and pharmacist’s instructions.

• Adhere to prescribed dosages.

• Monitor any changes in symptoms and report new side effects to the clinical team.

• Maintain a comprehensive support network to discuss treatment plans and progress.

Summary

While the NHS is more likely to prescribe medical cannabis for cancer patients than for other conditions, it is rarely a first-line treatment. Patients often must navigate a series of requirements before accessing this option. However, private clinics offer a more flexible and accessible route for those seeking medical cannabis to manage cancer-related health issues.