Respiratory System
The respiratory system is the group of organs and tissues that allow the body to breathe and exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. This includes the nose, mouth, lungs, airways, and muscles involved in breathing.
How does medical cannabis affect the respiratory system?
Both medical cannabis flower and oil can be prescribed to be inhaled through a vaporiser and into the respiratory system.
Vaporising is considered a safer alternative to smoking, as it heats the medical cannabis flower or oil without combustion, reducing the harmful by-products like tar and carcinogens. This minimises potential damage to the lungs compared to traditional inhalation administration methods such as smoking.
Is smoking medical cannabis legal in the UK?
No, smoking any form of prescribed medical cannabis is illegal in the UK. This is due to the overarching health concerns that go hand in hand with the inhalation of smoke from any source.
Vaporising medical cannabis flower or oil is currently the only approved method of inhalation in the UK.
Can medical cannabis be used to treat respiratory issues?
Medical cannabis is not typically prescribed to treat respiratory conditions directly. It does offer certain therapeutic benefits that may help ease the symptoms of some respiratory issues, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
It may be prescribed to patients suffering from respiratory conditions if they are also battling secondary symptoms, such as pain, anxiety, or insomnia, which can be managed with medical cannabis.
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.