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Glossary

MDA: Misuse of Drugs Act 1971

The Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) was introduced in the UK in 1971 and categorised drugs into different schedules depending on their potential to be dangerous or hazardous to health.

Under part II, Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, recreational (or any non-prescribed) cannabis is still classed as a Class B drug that is illegal to possess, supply, produce, import and export without approval from the Home Office.

Since the legalisation of medical cannabis in November 2018, specialist doctors listed on the GMC Specialist Register have been able to legally prescribe medical cannabis for a range of conditions in the UK. 

 

What constitutes a Class B drug in the UK?

 

Class B drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act are substances that are considered to have a high potential for abuse and harmful effects on an individual's physical or mental health. These include amphetamines, barbiturates, codeine, ketamine, synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists, and synthetic opioids.

 

What are the consequences of being caught in possession of a Class B drug?

 

If someone is caught in possession of a Class B drug in the UK, they can face up to 5 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. The severity of the consequences depends on the circumstances and the individual's criminal history.

 

Do medical cannabis patients in the UK have to worry about prosecution?

 

No, as long as the patient has been legally prescribed medical cannabis, they will not face prosecution for being in possession of their prescribed medication. It is advised that patients always carry their prescribed cannabis in the original packaging with the prescription label showing their name and the prescribing specialist's name, as well as a copy of their prescription.

All Releaf patients receive a medical cannabis card, which has been designed with police support to help patients quickly and easily prove they are legally allowed to carry and consume prescribed medical cannabis.

It is still illegal for individuals to possess cannabis without a prescription.

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.