OTC: Over The Counter
The term "Over-the-counter" refers to medical products that can be freely and legally purchased without a prescription.
Is medical cannabis legal for OTC sale in the UK?
No, in the UK, medical cannabis products that contain more than 0.2% THC, or 1 mg of THC per container, are not legal for OTC sale. These products are considered controlled substances and can only be obtained with a prescription from a specialist listed on the General Medical Council's specialist register.
Are products containing CBD (cannabidiol) legal for OTC sale?
Yes, CBD products are legal for OTC sale in the UK as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC, or 1 mg of THC per container. However, these products must be labelled as food supplements and cannot make any medical claims. They also cannot be marketed as a cure or treatment for any medical condition.
What are the potential risks of purchasing OTC cannabis products?
While the OTC sale of some CBD products is legal in the UK, it is important for patients to understand the differences between products classed as 'Novel Foods' and those that are not. Novel foods are defined as food or food ingredients that have not been widely consumed in the EU before May 1997.
The regulatory oversight and safety standards for Novel Foods are stricter than non-Novel Foods but still far less stringent than those applied to medical cannabis products that require a prescription.
How can patients ensure that all of their CBD products are well regulated?
Private medical cannabis clinics offer patients access to regulated CBD products that come with a certificate of analysis. These certificates provide detailed information on the contents and quality of the product, ensuring patients receive safe and effective treatment options.
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If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help.