Share This Article
In November 2018 the landscape of medical cannabis in the UK took a turn towards progressive with the legalisation of cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMS), dispensed by specialist doctors through an expanding network of private clinics. This change has enabled individuals across the UK to seek medical cannabis treatment for various ailments, provided they have exhausted other medical options without success for their condition.
JP celebrated his 25th birthday this year, which, interestingly, removed an age-related barrier that had previously hindered his access to medical cannabis. Our conversation shed light on the age-related challenges some patients face when seeking medical cannabis treatment. There seems to be an underlying concern around the theoretical risks associated with cannabis use at a younger age, particularly the fears centred around the much-debated topic of skunk psychosis. This is a concern unique to the UK, where high-THC cannabis is often seen with a wary eye.
However, the narrative is slowly but surely shifting, as the expanding network of clinics and an increasing number of British case studies are painting a promising picture of cannabis as an effective alternative for patients who have found little to no relief from conventional NHS medications.
Indeed, the spectrum of conditions for which cannabis has proven to be therapeutically beneficial is broad and continues to widen. During our discussion, JP brought to light a recent UK case study that showcased the positive impact of cannabis on individuals with Down syndrome.
Our enlightening conversation with JP spanned nearly an hour, meticulously segmented into chapters for easy navigation through various discussed topics. This interview is part of a new series I’ve embarked on, where I engage with different members of the UK cannabis community. Through these discussions, I aim to unearth insights into the evolving realm of medical cannabis in the UK as we steadily advance towards a more inclusive legal framework.
The journey towards broader accessibility and acceptance of medical cannabis is an ongoing process. The legalisation in 2018 was a significant milestone that paved the way for a growing community of beneficiaries like JP. The experiences and testimonials of these individuals are not only inspiring. Still, they are also instrumental in destigmatising cannabis use, thereby contributing to the ever-evolving discourse around medical cannabis in the UK.
