Transdermal
Transdermal products are becoming more available due to their convenient and effective medication delivery method. These products are applied directly to the skin and slowly release medication into the bloodstream over a period of time, providing sustained symptomatic relief. Common transdermal options include nicotine patches, hormone patches, and pain relief patches.
Are medical cannabis patches common in the UK?
Transdermal medical cannabis patches are slowly gaining traction but are still not widely available in the UK.
Do transdermal medical cannabis patches cause a "high"?
That depends on the cannabinoid content of the particular patch.
Some medical cannabis patches contain only CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, while others may also include THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis that causes the "high".
Patches high in THC have the ability to cause a "high", but this is usually less pronounced than other methods of medical cannabis administration. The aim of cannabis-based treatment is to reduce the impact of symptoms and side effects without causing a heavy psychoactive response.
How long do transdermal patches last?
Again, that depends on the specific product and its dosage. Most transdermal patches h last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, but some products have been designed to offer effective symptom control for up to a week. This sustained release allows for a consistent level of medication in the bloodstream, providing round-the-clock relief for patients.
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