In November 2018, the UK Government made changes to allow people access to medicinal cannabis. This came about after a review of scientific evidence showed that it could help patients suffering from chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Doctors are divided over whether or how to prescribe medical cannabis. Some believe that it can provide relief for some conditions, while others argue that there isn’t enough research to support this claim. Prescriptions for cannabis-based medicines are still very rare though. There are a lot of doctors who prescribe cannabis in the UK, according to the National Institute for Health Research. However, many of those doctors don’t prescribe cannabis every day, and most prescriptions aren’t written for long periods of time.

Patients will now be able to access cannabis via private clinics and pharmacies. They will also be able to ask their doctor for advice on where to buy cannabis products online. These changes come into effect on April 1st.

The rise of private cannabis clinics

Private cannabis clinics are popping up across the UK. They offer medical marijuana to people suffering from conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Some even provide free treatment to those who cannot afford it.

These clinics are run like NHS hospital departments. Patients can access cannabis medicine once they meet certain criteria. Many patients pay less than £5 a day for medication and treatments.

There are many different ways to relieve chronic pain. For example, some people use CBD oil, while others take prescription drugs. Others try acupuncture, hypnosis, meditation, yoga, massage therapy, counseling, reflexology, music therapy, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, and naturopathy.

Science vs commercial interest

Cannabis researchers are under fire from industry players and patients alike. Some argue that there is too much money involved in the sector, while others say that it is important to ensure that studies focus on the best possible outcomes for patients. A recent study found that nearly half of the studies published in peer-reviewed journals over the past decade had some sort of conflict of interest. And according to one researcher, the problem is getting worse.

Most influential scientific journals in the field of cannabis research found that most of the articles reviewed had some form of conflict of interest. This included funding received from pharmaceutical companies, universities, government agencies, trade associations, and advocacy groups.

This trend is likely to continue because many scientists feel pressured to publish positive findings. He adds that the situation is even more problematic because there is little regulation around disclosure requirements.