Derek Finnegan The term unlicensed cannabis-based product often sparks confusion and curiosity, especially since its legal and medical status has evolved significantly in the UK since 2018. Whether you’ve heard it from your GP, seen it mentioned by private clinics like Releaf or Mamedica, or come across it while researching treatment options, it’s important to understand exactly what this means — both legally and practically.
Introduction to Cannabis-Based Products for Medicinal Use (CBPM) in the UK
In November 2018, the UK government changed the legal framework to allow specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use in humans (CBPM). These products are often referred to as “unlicensed” because they typically do not have a traditional UK marketing authorisation by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Instead, they are prescribed on a case-by-case basis by specialists under a special framework.
What Does Unlicensed Cannabis-Based Product Mean?
Simply put, an unlicensed cannabis-based product in the UK is a medication that contains cannabis extracts or cannabinoids but does not have the formal approved “license” for medicinal use from UK regulators. This contrasts with licensed medicines, which have passed rigorous clinical trials and regulatory approvals.
Despite being unlicensed, these products can still be legally prescribed and supplied within the UK through specific legal pathways, but under strict conditions and supervision.
UK Legality Since 2018: What Has Changed?
Before 2018, cannabinoids like cannabis were strictly prohibited substances under UK law. The reclassification in 2018 enabled a regulated route for patients with certain conditions to access CBPM, but only via a specialist-led prescribing pathway. This means that:
- Only doctors on the General Medical Council (GMC) specialist register or consultants can initiate prescriptions.
- The products prescribed are often imported from outside the UK or specially prepared.
- The NHS coverage of these CBPMs is limited and cases are reviewed individually.
This framework prioritises safety while recognising that for some patients, licensed treatments are ineffective or unavailable.
NHS Limitations vs Private Access
Because of stringent criteria, the NHS rarely funds CBPM prescriptions. According to NHS guidance and clinical reviews, there is limited high-quality evidence for widespread prescribing of cannabis medicines, except for specific, rare conditions such as:
- Severe epilepsy syndromes (e.g., Dravet syndrome)
- Spasticity related to multiple sclerosis
- Certain chemotherapy-induced nausea treatments
This means that many patients seek private clinics for access, such as Releaf and Mamedica, who offer CBPM prescriptions through online consultations or in person consultations.
Private Clinics and Their Role
Private providers have stepped in to meet patient demand—offering tailored assessments, ongoing reviews, and flexible prescribed options not currently available widely on the NHS. These clinics use a specialist initiation prescription model, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks while offering the necessary expertise.
Important: Prices and fees for private prescriptions vary and can be substantial. Clinics like Releaf https://teddingtontown.co.uk/2026/07/08/medical-cannabis-in-south-west-london-how-local-patients-access-legal-treatment/ and Mamedica may quote costs during consultations or on their websites. Since no official prices were included in the sources reviewed, it is best to verify fees directly with these providers.
The Specialist-Led Prescribing Pathway Explained
The UK’s regulated approach places specialist doctors at the centre. The process generally follows these steps:
This pathway ensures that only patients who genuinely need CBPM receive it, with safeguards against misuse or inappropriate prescribing.
Remote Consultations and Accessibility
Recent developments have enabled remote or online consultations to become more common in this field, especially accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinics such as Releaf and Mamedica offer:
- Online consultations: Video or phone assessments with specialist prescribers, reducing the need to travel.
- In person consultations: Physical appointments for patients requiring face-to-face evaluation.
These options improve accessibility, particularly for patients outside major urban centres or those with mobility challenges.
What to Ask on the Consultation Call
- Am I eligible for an unlicensed cannabis-based product under the specialist-led pathway?
- What evidence supports the use of CBPM for my condition?
- What types of products and cannabinoid compositions are available?
- How will monitoring and follow-up be arranged?
- Can you explain the risks, side effects, and expected benefits?
- What are the costs involved (consultation fees, medication, ongoing monitoring)?
- Is this treatment likely to be covered by NHS or do I need to consider private funding?
Summary Table: Key Points on Unlicensed Cannabis-Based Products in the UK
Final Thoughts
The landscape of unlicensed cannabis-based products in the UK is nuanced. While legal access exists, it is carefully controlled with an emphasis on specialist-led prescribing and patient safety. The NHS remains cautious and selective in approving these treatments, resulting in many patients turning to private clinics for expedited access and personalised care.
If you are considering CBPMs, it is essential to go through the regulated route with qualified specialists—whether that involves a remote consultation or an in-person appointment. Be sure to ask detailed questions, understand the costs, and arrange for proper follow-up.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information based on UK regulations as of 2024 and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek professional medical consultation for personalised treatment decisions.
