How to Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK
Everything you need to know — from eligibility to getting your first delivery. The full process in 4 steps.
Step 1
Check Your Eligibility
You are eligible for medical cannabis in the UK if you have a qualifying condition (anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, PTSD, depression, fibromyalgia, ADHD, endometriosis, IBS, multiple sclerosis, Tourette's, epilepsy, or chemotherapy side effects) and have tried at least two conventional treatments without success.
**No previous cannabis use is required.** You don't need a GP referral. You don't need to have tried every possible medication — just two standard treatments for your condition.
Most UK adults aged 18+ are eligible. Under-18s can also access treatment with specialist consent.
Step 2
Gather Your Medical Records
You will need a Summary of Care Record (SCR) from your GP. This is a digital record of your diagnoses, medications tried, and any relevant history.
**How to get it:**
- Ask your GP receptionist for a "Summary of Care Record" or "GP Summary"
- Most clinics can request this on your behalf via your NHS number
- If your GP is uncooperative, clinics can still proceed with a subject access request
Some clinics can also accept pharmacy records or a brief medical history questionnaire if GP records are delayed.
Step 3
Choose a Clinic & Book a Consultation
Choose from 8 major UK clinics. Initial consultations are remote (video call), last 20-45 minutes, and cost £0–£250 depending on the clinic.
**Quick recommendations:**
Step 4
Get Your Prescription & Medication
If approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy (usually Curaleaf, IPS, or Cedarwood). Medication is dispensed and delivered to your door via DPD/Royal Mail.
**What you can be prescribed:**
- **Flower (dried cannabis)** — vaped, not smoked. Available in indica, sativa, and hybrid strains
- **Oil** — CBD, THC, or balanced oils taken sublingually
- **Capsules** — pre-dosed for consistent intake
**Delivery:** Typically 2-5 working days. Some clinics offer next-day.
**Repeat prescriptions:** Most clinics require a follow-up consultation every 3 months. Some offer monthly repeats between follow-ups.
Prescription Approval Tip
Be honest about your symptoms and treatment history. Doctors are looking for genuine medical need, not cannabis knowledge. You do not need to exaggerate or prove you know strains — just explain how your condition affects your daily life.
Ready to Get Started?
Compare all UK clinics side by side — pricing, ratings, and patient reviews.
Compare Clinics Now