Medical Cannabis for Migraines & Headaches in the UK
Migraines affect approximately 1 in 7 people in the UK — more than diabetes, asthma, and epilepsy combined. Chronic migraine (15+ headache days per month) is particularly debilitating. Standard treatm
How Medical Cannabis Helps Migraines & Headaches
Migraines involve the trigeminal nerve and serotonin pathways — both modulated by the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis can reduce the neurogenic inflammation that triggers migraines, alter serotonin signalling, and interrupt the pain cascade before it fully develops. Many patients report that cannabis is effective both as a preventive (reducing frequency) and abortive (stopping an active migraine) treatment.
Evidence: A 2023 UK study found that cannabis was effective in reducing migraine frequency and severity in the majority of patients studied. The mechanism involves CB1 receptor activation in the trigeminal nerve pathway. UK clinics commonly prescribe cannabis for chronic migraine patients who have not responded to triptans or preventive medications.
Common Migraines & Headaches Symptoms
NHS vs Private Migraines & Headaches Treatment with Cannabis
NHS
- —Very limited access for this condition
- —Only Sativex for MS spasticity
- —Long NHS waiting lists
- —Free at point of use
Private Clinic
- +Migraines & Headaches accepted as a condition
- +Appointment within days, not months
- +Wide range of products available
- +From £1,200–4,000 per year
How to Get a Cannabis Prescription for Migraines & Headaches
Check Your Eligibility
Most adults with Migraines & Headaches who have tried conventional treatments are eligible for a private consultation. Complete a free eligibility check online in 2 minutes.
Book a Consultation
Choose a clinic and book a video consultation with a specialist. The appointment is 30-60 minutes. Bring your medical history and details of previous treatments.
Get Your Prescription
If approved, your prescription is sent to a licensed pharmacy. Medication is delivered to your door within 5-10 working days.
Quick Facts
Legal since 2018
Prescribed by GMC specialists
Appointment within days
Most patients seen in 1-7 days
No GP referral needed
Self-referral accepted at all clinics
Estimated Annual Cost
Includes consultations + medication. Some clinics offer access schemes for patients on benefits.
See full cost breakdown →All UK Clinics Treating Migraines & Headaches
8 clinics accept patients with migraines & headaches
| Clinic | Initial Cost | Rating | Access Scheme | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Releaf | £50–£150 | 4.7 | — | Review → |
 Mamedica | £0–£100 | 4.7 | Yes | Review → |
 Alternaleaf | £49–£99 | 4.5 | — | Review → |
 CB1 Medical | £50 (all consultations free 12 months) | 4.5 | Yes | Review → |
 Can Clinic | £99 | 4.2 | Yes | Review → |
 Zerenia | £15 | 4.3 | — | Review → |
| Leva Clinic | £15 | 4.3 | — | Review → |
 Treat It | £99 | 4.8 | — | Review → |