Edibles
The term 'Edibles' is the name given to ingestible products and foods that have been infused with cannabinoids, usually THC and/or CBD.
What is the difference between inhaling medical cannabis and edibles?
When you take medical cannabis in edible form, the active ingredients pass your digestive system and liver before entering your bloodstream. This leads to a delayed onset of effects, usually taking between 30 and 90 minutes for the effects to be fully felt. The effects do last much longer compared to inhaled cannabis, anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.
Are edibles legal for medical use in the UK?
In the UK, medical cannabis, including edibles, can be legally prescribed by a specialist for certain conditions. Currently, to be prescribed edibles containing THC, you will need to go through a private cannabis clinic, as the NHS does not offer them.
CBD edibles can be purchased without a prescription.
What conditions can edibles be prescribed for in the UK?
Through the NHS, only certain conditions, such as rare forms of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, are approved for medical cannabis prescriptions.
Specialists who are registered with the GMC and are working with private cannabis clinics (like Releaf) have the legal authority to prescribe cannabis-based medicines for almost any health condition they deem appropriate. That said, only after two conventional treatment options have failed, and as long as cannabis-based medicines have the potential to help reduce the symptom impact of the health concern.
What should I consider before using edibles for medical purposes?
The biggest considerations to take into account are the delayed onset of effects and the extended duration that the effects of edibles last in comparison to inhaling cannabis. Your prescribing specialist will help determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your progress to ensure you get the best possible treatment outcomes.
It is crucial that you follow the dosage requirements, as edibles can be more potent than inhaled cannabis. Never take edibles without a prescription or medical supervision.
Are there any side effects of using edibles for medical treatment?
Yes, side effects from taking edibles can include dry mouth, dizziness, altered perception, an increased heart rate, and (in some cases) anxiety or discomfort.
Reach out to your prescribing specialist or medical cannabis clinic immediately if you experience any negative side effects. They may need to adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatment methods.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.