Scientists at the University of South Australia say they have developed an innovative solution to improve the effectiveness of cannabidiol to treat epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases. Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, is widely prescribed for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory [...]
France’s four-year campaign to launch a fully regulated generalised medical cannabis framework is finally being realised. Just weeks ago thousands of participants in Frances’ medical cannabis ‘experiment’, launched in 2021, were preparing to wean themselves off the treatment and had been instructed by the government to [...]
The cannabis sector faces a multifaceted landscape marked by economic challenges, shifting regulations and market volatility. Thriving in this environment requires industry businesses to move beyond reactive measures, embracing forward-looking risk management strategies. By adopting comprehensive mitigation plans and maintaining proactive vigilance, cannabis companies can stay [...]
UK adults remain confused about the legal status and availability of medical cannabis, despite it being legalised in 2018, a new survey has revealed. According to a new study of 2,000 adults, while four in every five respondents (79%) were aware of medical cannabis, only 26% [...]
Releaf is one of the first medical cannabis clinics to integrate with the NHS’ Spine service, the digital backbone of healthcare across the UK. Could this be a turning point in how clinicians view and engage with cannabis-based medicines? While the number of prescriptions for CBMPs [...]
Last week, the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) voted almost unanimously to place hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) under Schedule II of the 1971 Convention. After over a year of warnings from various international health bodies and individual efforts from a swathe of countries [...]
A new study has found certain cannabis terpenes to be effective at relieving post-surgical and fibromyalgia pain in preclinical models. Research from the University of Arizona Health Sciences and funded by the National Institute of Health, suggests that terpenes from the Cannabis sativa plant may be [...]
The concept of the medical cannabis card originated out of the US in some jurisdictions where patients are issued an annual card from their doctor which permits them to purchase medical cannabis from any legal dispensary. Although the markets in Europe differ significantly to those in [...]
Written by SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals CEO, Michael Sassano For years, medical cannabis has been treated as a commodity, with little emphasis on brand differentiation. However, as the market evolves, established cannabis brands are playing an increasingly critical role in patient care, physician confidence, and regulatory acceptance, mirroring [...]
Scientists have developed a new compound to harnesses the pain-relieving properties of cannabis without any unwanted side effects, pointing to a possible alternative to opioids. In the search for alternative pain relievers, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Stanford University have [...]
In a new survey of UK doctors, 84% said they would be open to prescribing medical cannabis for chronic pain if it were part of the NHS toolkit. The findings indicate there may be significant support among doctors for widening access to medical cannabis for the [...]
Network Rail’s policy breaches the Equality Act 2010. PatientsCann UK fights for fair treatment—take action now.
The post Network Rail’s Response to Our Concerns: A Call for Fair and Transparent Policy first appeared on PatientsCann UK.
When it comes to medical cannabis, quality and consistency aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re the whole deal. Patients depend on it to manage conditions like epilepsy, chronic pain, and PTSD, not for a surprise mystery grab bag of effects. If potency or purity wavers, so does the treatment, and that’s a no-go. A rock-solid supply chain […]
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Yep, you can hit the road with your prescribed medical cannabis – but there are a few golden rules: • You must not be impaired (no zombie-mode driving). • Your prescription comes from a specialist consultant (not your mate Dave). • You can prove it (because “trust me, bro” won’t cut it). The DVLA says doctors should clue […]
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The government is currently tinkering with disability benefits, but for millions of disabled folks, these aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet, they’re the difference between making it through the month or free-falling into financial chaos. They are taking away a lifeline! Picture this: You rely on medical cannabis to keep your epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or […]
The post The Terrifying High Price of Cutting Disability Benefits & Medical Cannabis in the UK appeared first on I Am Billy.
The preliminary findings from Switzerland’s seven active pilot trials, involving around three per cent of the country’s active cannabis consumers, have been published by a local university. Just days after Switzerland announced it was positioning itself to become the first European country to launch a full commercial adult-use [...]
In a new research paper, mothers using medical cannabis to manage their health say it helps them to be ‘more present’ and ‘tolerant’ parents. A new study, funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand, has explored the experiences of mothers using medical cannabis to [...]
A new study is shaking things up! Turns out, prescription cannabis might just be the ultimate life hack for folks 50 and older struggling with pain and sleep issues. Researchers found that prescription cannabis isn’t just safe but actually effective in easing pain, improving sleep, and boosting overall quality of life. The Highlights: 229 participants […]
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Cannabinoid therapy is the rising star of pain relief, nausea control, and neurological care. But here’s a fun fact – if your liver is running on low power (thanks to cirrhosis, hepatitis, or other party-crashers), your cannabinoid dose might need a remix! Your liver is the backstage crew for metabolizing THC and CBD, mainly using […]
The post Cannabinoid Therapy & Liver Health: Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All appeared first on I Am Billy.
OxyContin was introduced in 1996 as a revolutionary painkiller, with Purdue Pharma assuring doctors and patients that it was safe and had a low risk of addiction. This was a blatant lie. The drug was a powerful opioid, chemically similar to heroin, and highly addictive. Purdue’s aggressive marketing campaign targeted not only chronic pain patients […]
The post What if we had Ditched Deadly OxyContin and Embraced Live-Giving Alternatives Instead? appeared first on I Am Billy.
Drug policy experts have backed a family’s call for regulatory reform to protect patients travelling to Ireland with legal cannabis medication. Jason Pickering was making the trip to Ireland to visit his late father’s grave, when his cannabis medication was seized at Dublin Airport on 23 [...]
UK medical cannabis clinic, Releaf, is investing in an ambitious new research programme to collect critical real-world evidence on the effects of medical cannabis treatments. Could it help bridge the knowledge gaps and bring regulators on board? Regulators and medical professionals have repeatedly called for more [...]
It can help balance your sleep cycle and kick insomnia to the curb. Sweet dreams could be just a prescription away!
The post Tossing and turning all night? Prescription cannabis might just be your snooze button in plant form! appeared first on I Am Billy.
Let’s be real – prescription pain meds like opioids and NSAIDs come with a laundry list of side effects (hello, addiction risk and stomach issues). Prescription cannabis, on the other hand, offers pain relief without the major downsides. While it’s not a magic cure-all, it provides a natural, plant-based alternative with fewer risks when used […]
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Pain isn’t just physical – it messes with your head, too. Luckily, cannabis does double duty by not only soothing pain but also lowering stress and improving sleep. Studies suggest that CBD helps regulate cortisol (the stress hormone), meaning you might just feel less anxious and more zen. And since better sleep = better healing, […]
The post Prescription Cannabis – Less Stress, Better Sleep, and a Happier You ? appeared first on I Am Billy.
Here’s how it works: • Your body has a built-in endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a fancy network of receptors that helps regulate things like sleep, mood, appetite, and pain. • Enter cannabinoids (the active compounds in cannabis), which interact with the ECS to reduce inflammation and chill out pain signals. • The dynamic duo of prescription cannabis – […]
The post Prescription Cannabis – It’s got some serious Pain-Fighting Superpowers thanks to its analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties. appeared first on I Am Billy.
Back pain – it’s the ultimate mood killer. Whether it’s from hunching over your laptop like a goblin, lifting something way heavier than you should have, or just existing in a body that insists on rebelling against you, chronic back pain can make everyday life a total drag. While traditional treatments like physical therapy and […]
The post A Highly Effective Solution: How Medical Cannabis Can Chill Out Your Back Pain appeared first on I Am Billy.
Turns out, cannabinoids aren’t just for oral administration – they might also have some serious skin-saving superpowers! With their well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, these compounds are stepping into the spotlight as potential game-changers for wound healing. A deep dive into the research scene explored how cannabinoids interact with the body’s natural wound repair process. And while […]
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Well, that depends on how you take it! If you’re inhaling it (vaping, that is and not trying to summon a genie), expect the effects to hit within minutes and reach their peak in about 30-60 minutes. Now, if you’re going the oil route, buckle up for a slightly longer ride- anywhere from 45 to […]
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Doctors and researchers are still squinting through the smoke when it comes to understanding how cannabis actually works as a medical treatment. But a new National Cannabis Study might finally bring some clarity—by tracking around 10,000 patients and their responses to cannabis-based therapies. This study is part of a larger Cannabis and Health Research Initiative, […]
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Switzerland has approved a draft proposal to establish a fully commercial adult-use cannabis market, putting the country in pole position to be the first in Europe to do so. A new draft for a federal law, which would enable citizens to legally ‘grow, buy, possess and [...]
The UK’s first fully-licensed EU-GMP medical cannabis cultivation facility has opened its doors to doctors, as its first products were made available on prescription for patients earlier this month. After five years and over £10 million in investment, Dalgety has become the first facility in the [...]
Since the legalisation of medical cannabis in the UK in 2018, its integration into mainstream healthcare has faced significant hurdles. While private clinics have provided access to cannabis-based medicines (CBMPs), many healthcare professionals remain sceptical, largely due to outdated perceptions, limited clinical education, and a lack [...]
A new research partnership between the University of Malta and the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis will study the differences between illegal cannabis and that which is accessed through licensed associations. The agreement, which will see the University of Malta and the ARUC collaborate [...]
Europe’s first patient-led event will return next month with a focus on the medicinal use of cannabis in chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Following a successful launch in Madrid in October, We, The Patients, will host its first event in Switzerland on 1 March at the Resident Zürich [...]
What is the Care Quality Commission (CQC)? The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the UK’s independent regulator of health and social care services. It exists to ensure that clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare providers are following all relevant guidelines and meet essential standards of safety, effectiveness, [...]
Via Business of Cannabis Spain’s long-awaited medical cannabis program has finally taken a step forward as a draft of a Royal Decree has been sent to the European Union for approval. If approved, this should give Spanish patients legal access to medical cannabis for the first [...]
Written by: Releaf’s Clinical Dr Alex Van Heerden After years prescribing opioids, Dr Alexander Van Heerden, a clinical doctor at Releaf with a background in emergency medicine, believes medical cannabis should be considered a first-line treatment option rather than an alternative. The Opioid Crisis: Over 500,000 [...]
New findings, from the largest study of its kind, suggest cannabis use may be linked to a decline in working memory among young adults. The new study published in JAMA Network Open explores the effects of both recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during [...]
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found abundantly in raw cannabis plants. Unlike its decarboxylated form, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THCa does not produce intoxicating effects. This distinction is crucial for medical cannabis patients, healthcare professionals, and industry experts seeking to understand the therapeutic potential and legal considerations of THCa, particularly within the United Kingdom. Biochemical Nature of THCa THCa serves as the acidic precursor to THC. In its natural state, cannabis plants synthesise cannabinoids in their acidic forms, with THCa being predominant. When exposed to heat through processes like smoking, vaping, or cooking—a reaction known as decarboxylation—THCa loses a carboxyl group, transforming into THC, the compound responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects. Therapeutic Potential of THCa Emerging research suggests that THCa may offer several health benefits: Psychoactivity of THCa In its raw form, THCa is non-psychoactive and does not produce the “high” associated with THC consumption. This non-intoxicating nature makes it an attractive option for patients seeking therapeutic benefits without cognitive impairment. However, it’s essential to note that when THCa is heated, it converts into THC, thereby gaining psychoactive properties. Applications of THCa Given its potential therapeutic properties and non-psychoactive nature, THCa is utilised in various forms: Legal Status of THCa in the UK The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) has provided insights into the behaviour and control status of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa) in its report on consumer cannabidiol (CBD) products. The report highlights that THCa does not significantly convert to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) within the human body after ingestion. Additionally, while THCa can decarboxylate into Δ9-THC at temperatures below 100°C, this process requires prolonged exposure; at room temperature, the conversion is negligible. These findings suggest that THCa’s limited potential for in vivo conversion to psychoactive Δ9-THC may influence its regulatory status. The legal framework surrounding THCa in the United Kingdom is complex. While THCa itself is non-psychoactive, it is closely regulated due to its potential to convert into THC when heated. This conversion raises concerns for law enforcement and regulatory bodies. According to the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, THC is a controlled substance, and any product containing cannabinoids that can be converted into THC may fall under this regulation. In practice, this means that while THCa is not explicitly listed as a controlled substance, its presence in products intended for consumption could be subject to legal scrutiny, especially if there’s a likelihood of decarboxylation into THC. Therefore, products containing THCa are subject to stricter controls and are generally less accessible than CBD products. In the United Kingdom, cannabis and its derivatives are primarily regulated under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. Cannabis is classified as a Class B controlled drug, making it unlawful to possess, supply, produce, import, or export without appropriate licensing. The legislation defines cannabis to include any part of the plant, excluding mature stalks, fibre, and seeds. Additionally, cannabinoids such as THC are specifically controlled substances. While cannabidiol (CBD) in its pure form is not controlled, products containing other cannabinoids, including THCa, are subject to regulation. The Home Office acknowledges that due to challenges in isolating CBD from other cannabinoids, consumer CBD products may contain varying amounts of controlled substances like THC and THCa. Therefore, any product containing controlled cannabinoids is classified as a Class B controlled drug unless it meets the “exempt product” criteria outlined in Regulation 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. Exempt Product Criteria For a product to be considered exempt, it must fulfil specific conditions: If a product meets all these criteria, it is not subject to the prohibitions on importation, exportation, production, supply, and possession under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Conclusion THCa represents a promising cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits for various medical conditions. Its non-psychoactive nature makes it suitable for patients seeking relief without the intoxicating effects of THC. The sale and distribution of THCa products in the UK occupy a legally ambiguous space. While businesses continue their operations, the potential for legal challenges remains due to the intricate regulatory framework governing cannabis and its derivatives. It is imperative for businesses and consumers to stay informed and consult legal experts when navigating this evolving landscape. References Drug Licensing Factsheet (Cannabis, CBD & Other Cannabinoids) Consumer CBD products report – ACMD Is THCa legal in the UK – r/LegalAdviceUK – Reddit The Legal Weed No One’s Talking About – Vice Disclaimer The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, however the legal framework surrounding THCa is complex and subject to change. Readers are advised to consult with qualified legal professionals to obtain guidance tailored to their specific circumstances. The authors and publishers disclaim any liability arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein.
The post THCa is it legal? first appeared on PatientsCann UK.
Via Business of Cannabis The first parliamentary debate on medical cannabis in the UK under the new Labour administration has shattered hopes of a more progressive stance on reform. Despite impassioned speeches from members of various parties, unanimously calling for the UK’s ‘patchwork’ cannabis regulation to [...]
Since the legalisation of medical cannabis in the UK in 2018, patients have faced numerous challenges in accessing and utilising cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs). Despite legal provisions, the landscape remains fraught with limited support, societal stigma, and complex legal hurdles. Organisations like Seed Our Future play a crucial role in advocating for patients’ rights and providing necessary support. Challenges in Legal Support The legal framework surrounding medical cannabis in the UK is complex, creating numerous obstacles for patients seeking treatment. While specialist doctors are legally permitted to prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs), access remains severely limited, forcing many patients to navigate a difficult and often expensive system. One of the primary challenges is the scarcity of NHS prescriptions for medical cannabis. Despite its legal status, NHS doctors rarely prescribe CBMPs, leaving most patients with no choice but to turn to private clinics. However, private prescriptions can be prohibitively expensive, making access to medical cannabis a privilege rather than a right for many who need it. Legal uncertainties further complicate matters. Many patients struggle to understand the exact legalities surrounding the possession and use of their prescribed cannabis, particularly in public spaces or workplaces. Questions about where they can legally consume their medication, how employers should accommodate their needs, and whether they risk law enforcement scrutiny add to the confusion and anxiety patients face daily. A significant barrier to proper legal support is the widespread lack of awareness. Many patients, healthcare professionals, and even service providers do not fully understand the legal rights and regulations governing medical cannabis use. This gap in knowledge often results in patients being misinformed or hesitant to assert their rights, while some service providers may be unwilling to support patients prescribed CBMPs simply due to uncertainty about the legal implications. Societal Stigma Despite its legalisation for medical use, cannabis continues to carry a deep-rooted stigma due to its long-standing association with recreational use and illegality. This stigma affects patients in several ways, often leading to unnecessary challenges and discrimination. One of the most significant issues is public perception. Many medical cannabis patients face judgment or misunderstanding from the public, which can result in social isolation or even outright discrimination. The misconception that all cannabis use is recreational or illicit contributes to this negative outlook, making it harder for patients to openly discuss their treatment or seek support. Employment is another area where stigma creates difficulties. Despite legal protections, employees who use medical cannabis may encounter prejudice or unfair treatment in the workplace. Employers who lack awareness or understanding of medical cannabis laws may view its use as problematic, even when it is prescribed for legitimate health conditions. This can lead to unnecessary workplace conflicts, job insecurity, or even wrongful dismissal. Stigma also extends into the healthcare system itself. Some healthcare professionals remain hesitant to prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) due to lingering biases or a lack of education on the subject. This reluctance can leave patients struggling to access the treatment they need, forcing them to seek expensive private prescriptions or, in some cases, go without medication entirely. Overcoming these societal barriers requires greater public education, stronger legal protections, and a shift in cultural attitudes towards medical cannabis. Legal Support Resources For patients seeking legal assistance, several law firms and organisations specialise in areas pertinent to medical cannabis use: Organisation/Law Firm Specialties Overview Seed Our Future Legislative Research, Education, Patient Support A national campaign organisation dedicated to legislative and historical research, education through open-source reports, lectures, and articles. They provide support to UK citizens affected by unjust laws and offer assistance to medical cannabis patients facing legal and discrimination cases. Ringrose Law Medical Negligence, Discrimination, and more Offers services in medical negligence and criminal defense, pertinent to medical cannabis patients facing related legal challenges. Their team is equipped to handle cases involving medical malpractice and criminal allegations. While our current list of law firms and organisations offering legal support to medical cannabis patients in the UK is limited, we anticipate its growth as more legal professionals gain a comprehensive understanding of medical cannabis law. As awareness increases and the legal landscape evolves, we are committed to expanding our directory to better serve patients’ needs. We encourage lawyers and solicitors with relevant expertise to contact us, so we can include their services in our list and collectively enhance support for the medical cannabis community. Medical cannabis in the UK remains complex due to limited support and persistent stigma. Organisations like Seed Our Future are essential in advocating for patient rights, providing education, and challenging unjust laws. Supporting such initiatives is crucial for fostering a more informed and compassionate approach to medical cannabis use. Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For specific legal concerns, consult with a qualified legal professional. Medical Cannabis Employment Medical Cannabis Housing Medical Cannabis Driving Seed Our Future Ringrose Law
The post Legal Support for Medical Cannabis Patients in the UK first appeared on PatientsCann UK.
Canadian researchers have developed a unique method to allow for standardized cannabis dosing among different consumption methods. Researchers at UBC Okanagan have created an Index of Cannabis Equivalence (ICE), a unique approach to standardized cannabis dosing across different consumption methods. Published in the Journal of Psychoactive [...]
The Czech Republic is continuing to make progress on an ambitious overhaul of its drug policies, with sweeping reforms aimed at creating a regulated market for low-risk psychoactive substances and addressing long-standing issues in medical cannabis access. Starting July 2025, the sale of low-THC cannabis and [...]
UK brand, HEMPE, has secured NSF certification for its CBD gel, giving it the green-light for use among professional athletes and military personnel. The Dorset-based brand was founded by former boyband star and commando, Farard Darver, following an injury in Afghanistan. HEMPE’S CBD gel is now [...]
The airline Jet2 has apologised to a medical cannabis patient—and is said to be ‘reviewing its policies’—after their medication was confiscated on a flight from Belfast. David Toms from Belfast, who is prescribed cannabis-based medicines for chronic pain and anxiety, was flying to Antalya in Turkey [...]
Professor Terry O’Brien and his team have taken a slick approach to battling hard-to-treat epilepsy with a groundbreaking transdermal cannabidiol (CBD) gel. Here’s the scoop: After 6 months of this skin-applied magic, over half the trial participants saw their seizures sliced by more than 50%! Let’s rewind. In 2018, the U.S. FDA gave a thumbs-up to a cannabidiol […]
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Nearly 1 million Americans (many 45 and older) are battling the muscle spasms and pain that come with multiple sclerosis (MS). Turns out, up to 66% of them might be giving medical cannabis a whirl, according to a 2017 survey. And guess what? Many are dialing down on their traditional pharmaceutical MS meds. Fun fact: […]
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Feeling frazzled, down, or haunted by the past? Turns out, prescription cannabis might just be the unconventional companion for your mind’s rollercoaster. A recent survey found 1 in 5 older adults turning to prescription cannabis to zap the blues and calm the chaos – and over 90% claimed it worked like magic! When it comes […]
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Over 600,000 Americans are turning to cannabis to kiss chronic pain goodbye and science is totally backing them up. Gold-standard clinical trials (the real deal) have shown cannabis can cut pain by a whopping 40 percent for folks grappling with serious health curveballs like nerve pain (hello, diabetes), spinal cord injuries, HIV, complex regional pain […]
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