How to Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK in 2025

Since the legalisation of medical cannabis in the UK in November 2018, access to cannabis-based medicinal products (CBPMs) has become a viable option for patients with specific health conditions. However, navigating the process to obtain a prescription can feel daunting. This guide outlines the steps to secure a medical cannabis prescription in the UK in 2025, with insights from leading clinics like MARUCANNA, a trusted medical cannabis clinic UK provider.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

To qualify for a medical cannabis prescription, you must meet certain criteria. Typically, you need a diagnosed physical or mental health condition that has not responded to at least two conventional treatments or medications. Common conditions treated with medical cannabis include:

• Chronic pain
• Anxiety and PTSD
• Epilepsy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Fibromyalgia

MARUCANNA, for instance, offers an online eligibility check. By completing a brief questionnaire and providing relevant medical information, you can determine if you qualify for a consultation. If eligible, you’ll receive a link to book an appointment with a specialist doctor.

Step 2: Consult your GP or self-refer to a private clinic

In the UK, only specialist doctors registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) can prescribe medical cannabis. General practitioners (GPs) cannot directly prescribe CBPMs but can refer you to a specialist. However, NHS prescriptions are rare, limited to severe cases like treatment-resistant epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, or multiple sclerosis-related spasticity.

For most patients, private clinics like MARUCANNA are the primary route. You can self-refer by contacting the clinic directly, often through an online form or phone call. You’ll need to provide your GP’s details so the clinic can liaise with them to ensure comprehensive care.

Step 3: Book a consultation

Once deemed eligible, you’ll schedule a consultation with a specialist, which can be in-person or via secure online video link. During the consultation, the doctor will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and assess whether medical cannabis is suitable. Clinics like MARUCANNA pair patients with specialists experienced in their condition, ensuring personalised care.

The initial consultation may cost between £50 and £285, depending on the clinic. For example, MARUCANNA provides clear instructions on how to prepare for and access your online appointment.

Step 4: Receive your prescription

If the specialist determines that medical cannabis is appropriate, they will issue a prescription tailored to your needs. This may include cannabis oils, flowers, or other formulations, with specific dosage instructions. Prescriptions are sent to a licensed pharmacy, which arranges delivery to your home within 3–5 days for in-stock medications or up to two weeks for others.

MARUCANNA requires a physical copy of the prescription (not a photocopy or scan) to comply with UK regulations. The prescription is valid for 28 days, and you must obtain your medication within this period. Payment is typically made online, and a courier service delivers your medication with a tracking number.

Step 5: Follow-up and repeat prescriptions

Medical cannabis treatment involves regular check-ins to monitor progress and adjust dosages if needed. MARUCANNA, for example, schedules follow-up appointments to track your care, often every three months. To maintain your prescription, you’ll need to book a follow-up consultation before your medication runs out, MARUCANNA recommends scheduling this 10 days in advance.

Repeat prescriptions can be requested through your clinic, and the process mirrors the initial prescription, ensuring continuity of care. Some clinics, like MARUCANNA, use apps to streamline reordering and communication.

Key considerations

• Cost: Private prescriptions can be expensive, with monthly medication costs ranging from £65 for flowers to £130 for combined oil and flower treatments. Consultation fees vary, but some clinics offer refunds if you’re deemed ineligible.
• NHS limitations: NHS prescriptions are rare due to strict National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. Private clinics offer more flexibility, prescribing for a broader range of conditions.
• Legal compliance: Always carry a copy of your prescription and keep medication in its original packaging to verify its legality if questioned.
• Stigma: Despite growing acceptance (84% of UK GPs support prescribing medical cannabis for chronic pain in 2025), some patients face stigma. Clinics like MARUCANNA provide empathetic, judgement-free care.

Why choose a medical cannabis clinic UK?

Opting for a reputable medical cannabis clinic UK like MARUCANNA ensures you receive expert care from GMC-registered specialists. These clinics adhere to strict regulations, use data-driven guidelines, and contribute to research, such as the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, to advance treatment standards. With over 50,000 patients accessing medical cannabis through private clinics by July 2024, the demand for professional, transparent care is clear.

Final thoughts

Obtaining a medical cannabis prescription in the UK in 2025 is a structured process that prioritises patient safety and personalised care. By checking your eligibility, consulting a specialist, and following through with a trusted clinic like MARUCANNA, you can explore whether medical cannabis is right for you. If you’re considering this treatment, start with an eligibility check today and take the first step towards managing your condition effectively.