Police Information

Guidance for Law Enforcement and Professionals on Cannabis-Based Prescribed Medicines (CBPM)

After legislative revisions took effect on November 1, 2018, cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) became prescription-eligible across the UK. This legal transformation resulted from a comprehensive review of CBPMs and recommendations put forth by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs.

Presently, the UK boasts a growing community of over 20,000 individuals holding private medical cannabis prescriptions. Prescriptions vary, with some patients receiving whole cannabis flowers, while others are prescribed oils or vape cartridges. It's important to note that these prescriptions are fully legal for medical purposes in the UK, a status granted since November 2018.

A lawful patient possesses the right to discreetly vape their prescribed medication as needed and typically carries:

Vaporizer: Utilized for heating the prescribed cannabis flower (Examples provided here).
Medication in its Original Tub: It's crucial to note that prescription labels may fade quickly and may not always be reliable (Example below).
Grinder: Employed to grind and store medication before vaping.
Tub for AVB (Already Vaped Bud): Used for disposal at home.
Copy of Prescription: Can be in paper form or stored digitally on a phone.
ID (e.g., Passport/Driving License): It's important to emphasize that a CannaCard is not an approved method for identifying a prescription, as per the DHSC.

Moreover, having an ID is not necessary if you hold a valid prescription.

We recognize that the prescription of whole cannabis flower may raise eyebrows initially, particularly when contrasted with more widely known products like Sativex, often prescribed for conditions such as MS. However, it's essential to understand that legal cannabis-based medicines, including the use of whole cannabis flower, are prescribed to address a broad spectrum of health conditions.

Here are just a few examples:

Anxiety: Some individuals find relief from symptoms of anxiety through the targeted use of whole cannabis flower, as it interacts with the endocannabinoid system to promote a sense of calm.
Chronic Pain: Whole cannabis flower is recognized for its potential in alleviating chronic pain, offering a natural alternative for individuals dealing with persistent discomfort.
Fibromyalgia: Patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, may find therapeutic benefits in the use of cannabis flower as part of their treatment plan.
Arthritis: The anti-inflammatory properties of certain compounds in cannabis may provide relief for individuals coping with arthritis, contributing to reduced pain and improved mobility.
Nausea: Cannabis, including the use of whole flower, is known to have antiemetic properties, making it a valuable option for individuals experiencing nausea, whether due to medical treatments or underlying health conditions.

It's important to note that the medical community is continuously exploring and expanding the understanding of how cannabis-based medicines, including whole flower, can be effectively utilized across various health conditions. The versatility of cannabis as a therapeutic agent underscores its potential in addressing a diverse range of medical needs.