Medical Cannabis & Women’s Health – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Women’s Health · Patient Education Medical cannabisand women’s health From menstrual pain to menopause, endometriosis to anxiety, a growing body of research and real patient experience is reshaping how women access and use prescribed cannabis in the UK. Here is what the evidence says, and what it means for you. PatientsCann UK  ·  Women’s Health Series  ·  18 May 2026 Jump to: Conditions The Evidence Getting Access FAQs References ~10% of women of reproductive age are estimated to have endometriosis 1 70% of women with endometriosis report inadequate pain relief from standard medicines 2 8 yrs average diagnostic delay for endometriosis in the UK 3 51% of women who used cannabis for menopause symptoms reported improved sleep 4 Conditions What conditions can prescribed cannabis help with? Prescribed cannabis is not a cure. What the evidence increasingly shows is that for many women living with difficult-to-treat conditions, it offers meaningful relief where other medicines have failed. Select a condition to explore what the research says. Endometriosis PMDD & PMS Menopause Mental Health Chronic Pain Emerging Evidence Endometriosis Endometriosis affects an estimated one in ten women of reproductive age, that’s around 1.5 million people in the UK alone1. Despite this, it takes an average of eight years to receive a diagnosis3, and many women reach that point having already tried, and found inadequate, multiple analgesic and hormonal treatments. The endocannabinoid system plays a role in pain modulation, inflammation, and tissue growth, and receptors are found in endometrial tissue itself. A 2021 preclinical review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that cannabinoid receptor activation suppressed endometrial cell proliferation and reduced inflammatory signalling5. Human studies remain limited, but a 2023 Australian survey of over 400 women with endometriosis found that those using cannabis reported significant reductions in pelvic pain, period pain, and pain during intercourse6. Prescribed cannabis is not a cure and does not address the underlying lesions. However, for patients whose pain is not adequately controlled by conventional medicines, it may represent a meaningful additional tool when prescribed and monitored appropriately. In practice UK clinics are prescribing for endometriosis-associated pain where patients have not responded adequately to at least two prior treatments. Specialist referral is required. Key research Sinclair et al. (2021)5; Armour et al. (2023)6 — see full references below. Emerging Evidence PMDD & PMS Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS affecting approximately 5–8% of women7. Symptoms which can include; debilitating mood changes, pain, and insomnia, are cyclical and linked to fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels, which directly interact with the endocannabinoid system. Endocannabinoid tone appears to fluctuate across the menstrual cycle. Research has suggested that lower circulating levels of the body’s own cannabinoid anandamide may contribute to the heightened pain sensitivity and mood dysregulation seen in PMDD8. While no large randomised controlled trials have been completed in PMDD specifically, survey data and case series have reported patient-perceived benefit for pain, mood, and sleep symptoms. CBD and balanced THC:CBD preparations are being explored at specialist clinics in the UK. Clinicians emphasise that PMDD is still an evolving area and that patients should document symptoms carefully before and after initiation. What patients report Many patients describe using low-dose CBD preparations in the luteal phase of their cycle for mood and sleep support, alongside conventional SSRI or SNRI treatment if prescribed. Important note PMDD must be formally assessed and distinguished from other mood disorders. Access to prescribed cannabis for PMDD remains limited and is considered on a case-by-case basis. Growing Evidence Menopause Declining oestrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause reduce the density and sensitivity of endocannabinoid receptors, which may partly explain why symptoms such as sleep disruption, hot flushes, mood changes, and pain often intensify during this transition9. A 2022 cross-sectional study published in Menopause surveyed 258 peri- and postmenopausal women and found that 86% of those using cannabis did so to manage symptoms, with improved sleep reported by 51%, reduced anxiety by 30%, and reduced hot flushes by 27%4. Use was predominantly self-initiated rather than prescribed, which highlights the unmet need that prescribed access could address more safely. Research from the US and Canada, where prescribing frameworks are more established, is increasingly informing UK clinical practice. UK clinicians are considering prescribed cannabis for menopausal insomnia and pain particularly where hormone replacement therapy is contraindicated or declined. Symptom focus Sleep disruption, night sweats, anxiety, joint pain, and vaginal dryness are the symptoms most commonly cited by patients seeking prescribed cannabis during menopause. HRT interaction Always inform your prescriber if you are using HRT or other hormonal therapies. There are no confirmed dangerous interactions, but a complete picture of your medicines is essential for safe prescribing. Context-Dependent Mental Health Women experience anxiety and depression at approximately twice the rate of men10, and the relationship between hormonal cycles and mental health is well established. The endocannabinoid system regulates fear extinction, stress response, and emotional processing, making it a plausible therapeutic target. CBD has the most consistent evidence for anxiolytic effects, with a 2019 systematic review in The Permanente Journal finding that 79% of participants experienced reduced anxiety scores following CBD use11. For PTSD, which disproportionately affects women, preliminary trial data supports THC:CBD preparations in reducing nightmare frequency and hyperarousal12. Caution is warranted. High-THC preparations can exacerbate anxiety in some patients, particularly those with a personal or family history of psychosis. Prescribed cannabis for mental health is approached conservatively in UK clinics and is never the first or only intervention. Mood & sleep Insomnia is a recognised prescribing indication where standard treatments have been tried. Many patients with mood disorders find sleep improvement is the most tangible initial benefit. Please note If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact your GP, the Samaritans (116 123), or SHOUT (text 85258) before pursuing any new medicine. Strongest Evidence Base Chronic Pain Chronic pain is the most established indication for prescribed cannabis in the UK. Women carry a disproportionate burden

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In the UK, most medical cannabis, legally termed cannabis-based medicinal products (CBPMs), is prescribed by clinicians with specialist expertise, often in the private sector due to limited NHS commissioning. With this reality, issues around prescription direction, where patients are steered toward specific pharmacies or limited product lists, have become important ethical and professional considerations. This guidance aims to clarify what prescription direction means, how it relates to CBPMs, and how clinicians and patients should approach it, grounded in clinical, regulatory and prescribing standards. What Is “Prescription Direction”? ‘Prescription Direction’ refers to any practice in which a healthcare provider influences or obligates a patient to use a particular pharmacy or dispensing service to fulfil their prescription, or restricts which products may be prescribed based on a clinic’s internal formulary rather than clinical considerations alone. For standard prescription-only medicines, and CBPMs alike, once a valid prescription is issued, the patient, not the issuing clinic or prescriber, owns the prescription and has the right to have it dispensed at any appropriate pharmacy. Professional guidance makes no provision for locking prescriptions to a particular dispensing outlet on non-clinical grounds. [1] Legal and Regulatory Framework for Medical Cannabis Prescribing Who Can Prescribe CBPMs In the UK, medical cannabis products (excluding those with a marketing authorisation such as some formulations of Sativex®) are predominantly unlicensed medicines (‘specials’). The law restricts their prescription to doctors on the General Medical Council’s (GMC) Specialist Register. Specialist doctors must also only prescribe within their area of competence and clinical training. [3] NHS England guidance echoes this: while subsequent prescriptions may sometimes be made under shared care arrangements, initial prescriptions must be authorised by a specialist clinician. [2] Regulation of Clinics Prescribing Medical Cannabis Independent clinics that prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products (CBPMs), including those operating solely in the private sector, are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC sets out clear expectations for providers prescribing CBPMs, including requirements around clinical governance, prescriber competence, patient safety, informed consent, and compliance with controlled drugs legislation. The CQC guidance confirms that providers must ensure prescribing decisions are clinically justified, appropriately documented, and made in the best interests of the patient, with systems in place to manage risk and avoid conflicts of interest. This includes ensuring that organisational or commercial arrangements do not compromise professional judgement or patient choice in prescribing or supply pathways. [4] Unlicensed Medicines and Clinical Responsibility Unlicensed medicines entail additional responsibilities for prescribers because they have not undergone the full range of regulatory assessments for safety, quality and efficacy. Prescribers must therefore be confident that the product is appropriate for the individual patient, and explain to patients the unlicensed nature of the treatment as part of informed decision-making. [1][5] Supplier and Pharmacy Regulation Although there is no single official UK “list” of pharmacies that can dispense CBPMs, any pharmacy that is properly registered and complies with regulatory standards may dispense them once presented with a valid prescription. Guidance from pharmacy regulators emphasises compliance with controlled drug legislation and safe supply standards for these products. [5] Prescription Direction: Clinical and Ethical Considerations Patient Autonomy and Choice Once a specialist prescriber has written a prescription for a CBPM, the patient retains the right to choose where that prescription is dispensed. Professional standards require clinicians to respect patient autonomy and avoid practices that could restrict choice without clinical justification. The GMC’s prescribing guidance reinforces that clinicians must prescribe only within their professional competence and on clinical grounds. It does not support practices that direct patients to specific suppliers for non-clinical reasons. [1] Clinic Formularies and Product Restrictions Many private medical cannabis clinics operate internal formularies — lists of products they commonly prescribe based on clinician familiarity, supply arrangements, or existing protocols. There may be legitimate clinical reasons to prefer certain products (e.g., formulations with established pharmacological profiles or evidence bases), but clinicians must never refuse to consider other products solely because they are not on an internal clinic list, without clinical reasoning. Clinical judgement during prescribing must focus on the patient’s individual needs rather than operational convenience or commercial preference. This is consistent with all prescribing guidance for individualised care. [1] Responsibilities for Clinicians Do’s for Clinicians Respect patient choice of pharmacy: Once a valid prescription is issued, patients should be informed they may take it to any appropriately registered pharmacy capable of dispensing CBPMs. This respects patient autonomy in clinical care and supply. Provide balanced information on products: Clinicians should discuss the evidence, risks, benefits, and availability of relevant CBPMs to enable informed decision-making. Explain formulary limits transparently: If a clinic’s prescribing experience is concentrated on certain products, explicitly clarify this and discuss why other products may be considered clinically appropriate, if relevant. Follow GMC standards: Ensure prescribing decisions are based on clinical evidence and patient needs, not influenced by commercial relationships or assumptions about pharmacy supply. [1] ✔ Operate within robust clinical governance arrangements: Clinics prescribing CBPMs must meet CQC expectations for safe, effective and patient-centred care, including transparency in prescribing practices and avoidance of commercial influence on clinical decision-making. [4] Don’ts for Clinicians Do not require patients to use a particular pharmacy for non-clinical reasons. Do not imply that prescriptions are “owned” by the clinic or that patients must dispense through a preferred partner. Do not limit prescribing to products on an internal formulary if other products are clinically suitable and available. Any practice that restricts patient choice on non-clinical grounds may undermine professional ethics and patient trust. Rights and Actions for Patients Your Rights as a Patient You have the right to choose the pharmacy that dispenses your prescription, provided it is registered and authorised to supply controlled drugs and CBPMs. [5] A prescription is your legal document and may be taken to any suitable pharmacy. Clinicians must explain the clinical basis for any recommended product, including risks and benefits, to support informed consent. If You Experience Undue Direction If a clinician or clinic appears to restrict your choice of pharmacy or product without clear clinical reasoning: Ask

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UTAW passes landmark motion to protect workers prescribed medical cannabis. Learn how unions, employers and patients can tackle stigma and discrimination.

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Earlier this week the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) issued updated guidance instructing police forces across the UK that medicinal cannabis patients should be treated as “patients first, suspects second” when encountered by officers. The guidance explicitly recognises that people in lawful possession of cannabis-based products for medicinal use should be assumed to be patients until proven otherwise, and clarifies that individuals with a valid prescription do not need to hold or present a Cancard, a privately-run card scheme that charges an annual fee and is not a legal requirement under UK law. This development represents a positive and overdue step in aligning policing practice with the legal reality established when cannabis-based medicines were moved to Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations in November 2018… more than seven years ago. That regulatory change made it lawful to possess cannabis-based products for medicinal use when prescribed by an appropriate clinician. However, as a leading UK medical cannabis patient organisation, PatientsCann UK welcomes the guidance with cautious optimism, because guidance on paper does not automatically translate into consistent, informed practice on the streets. Why Guidance Is Not Enough Without Understanding It is an ongoing reality that many frontline officers still lack accurate awareness of the legal status of medical cannabis: Independent reports and guides have indicated that a significant proportion of officers may still be unaware that medical cannabis can be legally prescribed in the UK, even years after the law changed. (Curaleaf Clinic) Previous force guidance responses under Freedom of Information showed that some police forces did not have internal training or up-to-date briefing materials on this subject, and officers were still being expected to rely primarily on older Home Office circulars and their own discretion. (essex.police.uk) This gap between policy and practice raises serious concerns for patients. The NPCC’s intent, that every police officer should treat someone carrying lawful medical cannabis as a patient first, is commendable. But unless officers are consistently aware of the legal framework, understand how to verify lawful possession, and are trained to apply the guidance, the lived experience of patients may not improve significantly. Clarification and Practical Challenges The NPCC guidance confirms that a Cancard is not legally required for patients with a valid prescription, a vital clarification given the confusion that has surrounded this scheme. Cancard was originally introduced to assist officers in identifying individuals claiming medical need, particularly for those who may be waiting for a prescription or unable to afford one. However, it has always been a discretionary tool, not legal proof of lawful possession. Simply put: 🔹 A card indicating intent or condition does not change the law. That said, PatientsCann UK continues to support patients in carrying necessary documentation (prescription, dispensing label on original packaging, photo ID) where possible, because in the current reality, this often reduces friction in police encounters. Our Concern: Words vs Reality Our central worry remains this: Will the principle of “patients first, suspects second” become the norm, or will we continue to see a default attitude of “guilty until proven innocent”? Guidance is only as effective as the understanding and awareness of the officers applying it. Many patients still report experiences where officers: Misinterpret the law Lack confidence in recognising legitimate prescriptions Treat possession of medical cannabis as inherently suspicious …even when a patient is carrying evidence of lawfully prescribed medication. In some cases this results in needless stress, seizure of medicine, or unnecessary investigations. What PatientsCann UK Calls For To ensure the NPCC’s guidance truly benefits patients, we call for: Rapid, centralised training modules for all frontline officers on the legal status of medical cannabis and the practical application of this guidance. Clear internal briefings in every force that reinforce that lawful possession with a valid prescription is not an offence. Public-facing awareness efforts so patients know what documentation to carry and what their legal rights are. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms to track whether the guidance translates into improved outcomes for patients. We welcome the NPCC guidance as a necessary and positive affirmation of patients’ rights under the law. But we must be vigilant, not just about what the guidance says, but how it is understood and implemented in every police force across the UK. For too long patients have been left to explain something that should be common knowledge within policing. Now, more than ever, we must work together; patients, clinicians, law enforcement, and the wider public, to ensure that legal status and human dignity are recognised equally at every encounter. Mohammad Ismail “Ish” Wasway PatientsCann UK The UK’s Medical Cannabis Patient Organisation

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At PatientsCann UK, we represent the voices of patients who rely on safe, effective, and regulated access to medical cannabis. Since its legalisation in 2018, many people have continued to face unnecessary barriers to treatment, from stigma and misinformation to the limited availability of NHS prescriptions. For thousands of patients, private prescriptions remain the only viable route to accessing the medicine they need. That’s why the Department of Health and Social Care’s “Private (non-NHS) Prescribing: Call for Evidence” is such an important opportunity. This review could influence how private prescribing works in the UK, including how cannabis-based medicines are accessed, regulated, and supported by clinicians. Why This Matters The call for evidence invites responses from across the healthcare system, including clinicians, prescribers, pharmacists, healthcare organisations, and patient groups. While the questions are primarily aimed at professionals, it is crucial that patients and carers also share their experiences. By contributing evidence and lived experience, we can help policymakers understand: How private prescribing supports patients who are unable to access NHS treatment. The challenges of affordability, continuity of care, and stigma in private medical cannabis access. The need for greater clinical education and confidence around prescribing cannabis-based medicines. The importance of protecting safe, regulated, and equitable access for all patients. Our Position PatientsCann UK believes that this review must:Protect the right of patients to access regulated medical cannabis safely and affordably.Promote fairness and consistency between NHS and private prescribing pathways.Address stigma and empower clinicians to prescribe based on evidence, not fear.Encourage more research, education, and evidence-based practice across the medical field. This consultation provides a rare chance to shape how the UK approaches private prescribing, and to ensure medical cannabis patients are not overlooked. How to Take Part Your experience is evidence — share it.The Private (non-NHS) Prescribing: Call for Evidence is now open to submissions from individuals and organisations with knowledge or experience of private prescribing. Visit: Private (non-NHS) Prescribing: Call for Evidence – GOV.UKDeadline: 11:59 pm, 4 November 2025 You do not need to answer every question, but you must select Submit at the end for your response to count. How Patients Can Encourage Healthcare Professionals You can play an important role in raising awareness of this consultation within your own care networks. Here are a few ways to help: Start the conversation. Mention the review to your prescribing clinician, pharmacist, or nurse and let them know the deadline. Many professionals may not yet be aware of it. Share the link. Send your clinic, GP practice, or specialist the official GOV.UK consultation page and encourage them to share it with colleagues. Speak to both sides. Whether your care is through a private medical cannabis clinic or the NHS, professionals across both systems can contribute valuable insight on access, patient safety, and clinical challenges. Explain why it matters. Let them know that evidence from healthcare professionals — especially those working with medical cannabis — can directly shape how government policy supports safer and fairer access for patients. Spread awareness. Share our post and tag your clinic, pharmacy, or medical organisation on social media to encourage wider participation. Your voice can help ensure that both patients and healthcare professionals are represented in this important review. Important Note This consultation is separate from the ACMD call for evidence on cannabis-based medicinal products, which focuses on clinical data and scheduling. Both reviews are crucial, and we encourage responses to each. Together, we can ensure that clinicians, patients, and organisations play a leading role in shaping an equitable and evidence-based future for medical cannabis access in the UK. 💚

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PatientsCann UK has raised urgent concerns with both the UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI) governments over the risks faced by patients prescribed medicines that are classified as Schedule 1 Controlled Drugs in one jurisdiction but legally prescribed in the other. At present, a prescription issued in the UK, ROI or Crown Dependencies cannot be dispensed across the border if the medicine is considered Schedule 1. More critically, patients cannot lawfully carry these prescribed medicines across the border, even if the crossing is unavoidable in order to travel within their own country. This issue disproportionately affects border communities, where travel across the border is not optional but a daily necessity. For patients in these communities, this creates an impossible situation: return home with their prescribed treatment and risk criminalisation, or forego essential medication. Couriers and healthcare professionals delivering medicines face the same challenge. Practical problems and risks The current situation gives rise to multiple, connected harms: Beyond individual harm, the problem creates wider public-health and administrative issues: increased emergency presentations, greater strain on social care and inequitable access to treatment depending on postcode. What PatientsCann UK is asking for PatientsCann UK has written to the governments of the UK and the Republic of Ireland requesting urgent clarification and guidance, including: The Northern Ireland Office has confirmed that officials are reviewing our letter. PatientsCann UK welcomes this development and will continue to press for clear, rapid action to protect patients who rely on any prescribed medicine. Sal Aziz, Director of PatientsCann UK, said: “Patients should never have to choose between taking their prescribed medicine and risking criminalisation. In practice this is what border communities on the island of Ireland face today. Governments must issue clear operational guidance and protections, urgently, so patients can continue to receive care without fear.” What happens next PatientsCann UK will publish updates as official responses are received. In the meantime, anyone affected by this issue is encouraged to contact PatientsCann UK so we can collate evidence and ensure our representations fully reflect the scale and immediacy of the problem. Please email info@patientscann.org.uk or send us a message on socials (Instagram | X).

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At PatientsCann UK, we are deeply concerned by Network Rail’s recently issued safety advice (NRA24-13), which imposes a blanket ban

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In this article, we explore the stigma associated with cannabis, the challenges faced by ethnic communities in the UK, and offer guidance for those seeking medical cannabis treatment.

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Recently, scientists made an exciting discovery that sheds light on the chemistry behind those tantalising tropical aromas: Tropicannasulfur compounds (TCSCs).

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Empowering Patients Worldwide We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone for PatientsCann UK – our appointment as the UK representative to the International Alliance for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM) Patients Council. This prestigious position marks a new chapter in our commitment to advocating for patient rights and fostering collaboration on a global scale. About IACM Patients Council The IACM Patients Council is a dynamic coalition of patient organisations from around the world. Its primary objective is to provide a unified voice for patients in the rapidly evolving landscape of medicinal cannabis. By working collectively, these organisations aim to safeguard the rights and interests of patients and ensure their perspectives are integral to the ongoing developments in medicinal cannabis. Our Role as the UK Representative As the UK representative to the IACM Patients Council, PatientsCann is honoured to take on the responsibility of championing the concerns, aspirations, and needs of patients in the United Kingdom. This role aligns seamlessly with our core mission of promoting a patient-centric approach to medical cannabis advocacy. Key Focus Areas Global Collaboration: We look forward to actively engaging with patient organisations worldwide. By fostering international collaboration, we can share insights, best practices, and advocate for the common goal of improving patient access and rights. Information Exchange: Our role involves facilitating the exchange of information between patients, organisations, and key stakeholders. By doing so, we aim to contribute to the creation of a well-informed and empowered patient community. Advocacy and Education: Through our representation, we will advocate for policies that prioritise patient well-being. Education will be a focal point, ensuring that patients are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare. PatientsCann’s Commitment Our journey with the IACM Patients Council is not just about representation; it’s about effecting positive change. PatientsCann is committed to leveraging this opportunity to enhance the dialogue surrounding medicinal cannabis, challenge stigmas, and drive initiatives that benefit patients globally. We express our gratitude to our supporters, volunteers, and the entire medical cannabis community. Your encouragement has been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Together, let’s continue advancing patient-centric approaches to medical cannabis and shaping a more compassionate and informed world. Empowering Patients, Transforming Lives.

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We are thrilled to share some exciting news! PatientsCann UK is a proud member of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO). This is a significant step forward in our journey of advocating for patient rights and fostering positive change in the medical cannabis landscape. Understanding the NCVO: The NCVO is a leading voice for the voluntary sector in the UK. Established in 1919, NCVO champions the work of charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations, providing them with a platform to collectively address challenges and amplify their impact. This membership places PatientsCann in a vibrant network of over 15,000 member organisations, ranging from small community groups to well-established charities. The Value of NCVO Membership for PatientsCann: Networking and Collaboration: Joining NCVO opens doors to a diverse community of organisations working towards social change. This network provides opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and building alliances within and beyond the medical cannabis sector. Advocacy Amplification: NCVO is a powerful advocate for the voluntary sector, influencing policies and decisions at the national level. By aligning with NCVO, PatientsCann gains a stronger voice in shaping policies that directly impact medical cannabis patients and the industry. Capacity Building: NCVO offers a wealth of resources, training, and support to enhance the effectiveness and impact of voluntary organisations. This invaluable support will empower PatientsCann to further its mission of educating, advocating, and supporting the medical cannabis community. Policy Engagement: As an NCVO member, PatientsCann gains access to valuable insights on policy developments and changes affecting the voluntary sector. This knowledge is crucial for steering our advocacy efforts in a rapidly evolving medical cannabis landscape. Implications for the Medical Cannabis Community: Our membership with NCVO is not just a milestone for PatientsCann; it’s a win for the entire medical cannabis community. It elevates the visibility of medical cannabis advocacy within broader discussions on healthcare, patient rights, and social well-being. Looking Ahead: As we embark on this exciting journey with the NCVO, we are filled with gratitude for the continued support of our community. Together, we will continue to strive for a future where medical cannabis patients are informed, empowered, and treated with the dignity they deserve. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being an essential part of the PatientsCann community.

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The Sanskara Platform (now PatientsCann UK) and Seed Our Future Co-Author Report with Cannabis Industry Council Urging Employers to Support Prescription Cannabis Patients 07/11/2023 – The Sanskara Platform, in collaboration with Seed Our Future, is pleased to announce the release of an important report addressing the rights of prescription cannabis patients in the workplace. This ground-breaking report, titled ‘The Use of Prescription Cannabis at Work,’ has been authored by Mohammad I Wasway, Founder of The Sanskara Platform, and Guy Coxall, Founder of Seed Our Future. It forms a crucial part of the Standards Working Group within the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC). The report, highlighted by the CIC, reveals a pressing issue affecting prescription cannabis patients and their rights in the workplace. It suggests that current employer practices may put them at risk of breaching the Equality Act. The Act mandates that employers must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate individuals with disabilities, which includes many prescription cannabis patients who often suffer from chronic pain and disabilities. The CIC’s report underscores the necessity for employers to treat prescription cannabis patients just like any other medical patients, aligning with their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Report co-authors, Mohammad Wasway and Guy Coxall, expressed their concerns, stating, “We have heard from many concerned and vulnerable patients who have been harassed and mistreated by their employers simply for taking their prescription medication. We urge businesses to support their employees and implement sensible and proportionate solutions that will improve employee wellbeing and productivity.” Elisabetta Faenza, Chair of the CIC Standards Working Group, emphasised the Council’s commitment to upholding workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, asserting, “The Cannabis Industry Council will be working with employers and unions to uphold workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, based on law, medicine, and basic compassion. Many businesses say they are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, yet often underdeliver. Now is the time for employers to step up and support ill and disabled employees.” The report not only sheds light on the medical context surrounding prescription cannabis but also suggests ways to manage its usage by employees. It includes user-friendly flowcharts and illustrative case studies to help employers navigate this complex issue. Since 2018, specialist doctors have had the authority to prescribe cannabis medicines to their patients, who are then legally permitted to possess and consume this medication. Employers who fail to uphold the workplace rights of patients, including both employees and job applicants, face the risk of being taken to an employment tribunal. This report is a significant step towards ensuring that prescription cannabis patients receive fair treatment and protection under the law. It calls upon employers to support their employees’ medical needs and uphold the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. Read the report here

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https://www.protectourpatients.co.uk/ In the realm of medical cannabis, a significant disparity exists between patients’ needs and their access to appropriate treatments. While progress has been made, with the UK government allowing specialists to prescribe cannabis medicines in 2018, a critical challenge remains: general practitioners (GPs) are still unable to prescribe this potentially life-changing therapy. As a consequence, a staggering 1.8 million individuals in the UK are compelled to turn to the illicit cannabis market for medical reasons. This is further exacerbated by the financial strain faced by those on low incomes, who struggle to afford private prescriptions. It’s high time we address these issues and embark on a transformative journey to protect our patients and enhance healthcare outcomes. The ‘Protect our Patients’ campaign is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at rectifying the inequity surrounding medical cannabis prescriptions. Its core mission is to advocate for GPs to be granted the same prescribing rights as consultants, thus empowering them to effectively support their patients in need. By removing the existing barriers, we can ensure that every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to safe and effective cannabis-based treatments. In 2018, the UK government acknowledged the therapeutic potential of cannabis medicines and legalised their prescription. However, this progressive step fell short in one crucial aspect: GPs were excluded from the regulatory framework, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive care to their patients. This oversight has resulted in a significant gap in access to medical cannabis, forcing patients to navigate the illicit market or face financial hardship to obtain private prescriptions. GPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, entrusted with their comprehensive healthcare. By granting them the authority to prescribe cannabis medicines, we open doors to a range of benefits: The time has come to bridge the gap in patient care and advocate for the empowerment of GPs to prescribe medical cannabis. Together, let’s protect our patients and ensure equitable access to life-changing treatments. Visit ProtectOurPatients.co.uk to learn more about the campaign, get involved, and be part

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Are you planning to travel abroad with medical cannabis from the UK? It can be a daunting task to navigate the various regulations and import laws of each destination country. Fortunately, PatientsCann has compiled a comprehensive guide to help you with the process. PatientsCann is an online resource that provides guidance on medical cannabis for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They have recently released a new table of information that outlines the regulations for importing medical cannabis into several popular British holiday destinations. The table provides a detailed breakdown of the import laws and regulations for each country, along with contact information for the relevant embassy departments. This makes it easier for patients to plan their travel and ensure they have the necessary documentation and permissions to bring their medication with them. It is important to note that each country has its own regulations, and it is essential to consult with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. PatientsCann’s guide can serve as a starting point, but it is not a substitute for professional legal advice. If you are planning to travel abroad from the UK with a medical cannabis prescription, make sure to check out PatientsCann’s table of information. It can be accessed via their website at https://patientscann.org.uk/travel/. Medical cannabis is a rapidly growing industry and has proven to be effective in treating various health conditions. However, different countries have varying regulations regarding the importation of medical cannabis. PatientsCann has created a table of information that outlines the necessary details and contact details/links for the importation of medical cannabis into popular British holiday destinations. Australia, Bahamas, Belgium, Bermuda, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Jamaica, Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and Turkey are included in the table. Among these countries, Germany, Poland, and Portugal allow for the importation of medical cannabis for personal use with certain conditions, among many others. Germany permits the importation of cannabis for personal use if prescribed by a doctor on the German list of narcotics. The patient is required to complete a form similar to the provided template and obtain confirmation from the supervising health authority of the patient’s county/area of residence. The patient can carry the cannabis for up to 30 days. In Poland, a patient may bring medicines to the country for personal use not exceeding five smallest packages. However, the patient needs to complete a document for import/export of narcotic drugs/psychotropic substances for medical needs and obtain consent from the Chief Pharmaceutical Inspectorate. In Portugal, patients can bring a higher amount of medication than required for the stay to anticipate unforeseen events. For medicines containing controlled substances, including cannabis, patients can bring only the amount required for 30 days of treatment with a medical justification/doctor’s statement. Patients are advised to contact the authority responsible for Customs and/or Civil Aviation in their country to find out the necessary documents required to transport medical cannabis. Greece allows visitors to bring products for personal health use, such as medicines, food supplements, antiseptics, cosmetics, medical devices, etc., for personal use during their stay. However, visitors are required to bring just enough of each product to cover their needs during their stay and hold a letter from their doctor stating the medication(s) they are carrying. Overall, it is essential to research and understand the regulations of the destination country regarding the importation of medical cannabis before travelling. PatientsCann’s table of information provides a valuable resource for individuals travelling to popular British holiday destinations with medical cannabis needs.   TRAVEL ABROAD  

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