What Conditions Qualify for Medical Cannabis UK?
8 min readBeginner Level
A complete list of conditions accepted by UK private clinics for medical cannabis prescriptions, with guidance on eligibility evidence and what clinics look for.
This guide is for educational purposes only. Cannabis is illegal in the UK without a medical prescription. Always consult a healthcare professional before making decisions about cannabis use.
While each clinic maintains its own list, the following conditions are commonly accepted by UK private medical cannabis clinics: chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, fibromyalgia, migraines, autism spectrum disorder (symptoms), and Tourette's syndrome.
Chronic pain is the most common condition treated, accounting for approximately 50-60% of all private prescriptions. This includes neuropathic pain, musculoskeletal pain, and pain from conditions like endometriosis.
Mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, PTSD) make up the second-largest group at around 25-30% of patients. Clinics typically require evidence that conventional treatments (therapy, antidepressants, etc.) have been tried first.
Neurological conditions like MS, epilepsy, and Tourette's account for about 10% of prescriptions. These conditions have the strongest clinical evidence supporting cannabis-based treatment.
To be accepted for treatment, you need documented evidence that you have tried at least two conventional treatments for your condition without adequate relief. This can include prescription medications, therapy, physiotherapy, or other standard treatments.
You'll need to provide your NHS number and authorise the clinic to request your Summary Care Record from your GP. This summarises your diagnoses, medications, and treatment history.
Some clinics ask for a letter of support from your GP or consultant, though this is not always required. A letter confirming your diagnosis and treatment history can strengthen your application.
For mental health conditions, clinics may request additional documentation such as a psychiatric assessment report or evidence of engagement with talking therapies.
People with a personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar I disorder are generally excluded from medical cannabis treatment. THC can trigger or worsen psychotic episodes in susceptible individuals.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not accepted. Medical cannabis is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential effects on fetal development.
Patients with severe liver disease may be excluded as the liver metabolises cannabinoids. Those taking medications that interact with cannabinoids (such as warfarin or certain anticonvulsants) need careful assessment.
Under-18s are only accepted at a handful of specialist clinics, primarily for epilepsy. The 18-25 age group faces additional scrutiny, especially for mental health conditions.
Different clinics specialise in different conditions. Sapphire Clinics and Curaleaf Clinic are known for treating a wide range of conditions including chronic pain and anxiety. Mamedica specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions including autism and Tourette's.
For a complete directory of clinics and their accepted conditions, visit The Green Prescription. Their clinic pages include detailed breakdowns of which conditions each clinic treats, making it easy to find the right fit.
Cantourage and Integro have more flexible formularies and tend to accept a broader range of conditions. They're known for taking on complex cases that other clinics have declined.
Lyphe Group accepts patients for many conditions but has a stricter policy on mental health conditions, requiring more extensive prior treatment evidence.
Always check a clinic's condition list before booking an initial consultation. Most publish their accepted conditions on their website, and many offer a free eligibility check by phone or online form.
Being rejected by one clinic doesn't mean you won't be accepted elsewhere. Different clinics have different criteria and specialisms. If your application is declined, ask for the reason and consider applying to a clinic that specialises in your condition.
Common reasons for rejection: insufficient evidence of prior treatments, condition not on the clinic's list, concerns about mental health history, or medication interactions that can't be safely managed.
If you're rejected due to medication interactions, ask your GP about alternatives. If it's about prior treatment evidence, ask your GP to document your treatment history more thoroughly before reapplying.
Some clinics offer a free second opinion or discounted reassessment if you've been rejected by another provider. It's worth asking before booking a new full-price consultation.
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About the Author
DM
Dave Mak
Dave founded The Budophile to create clear, honest cannabis education for UK beginners. With a background in health research and a network of specialist contributors, he ensures every guide is accurate, evidence-based, and practical. He also runs Baked & Rated for product reviews and The Green Prescription for medical cannabis access guidance.
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