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The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is proud to announce our support for a new campaign called “Protect Our Patients.” This vital campaign, led by the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC), aims to extend the legal access to medical cannabis in the United Kingdom. Currently, 1.8 million patients rely on the illicit market for their medical cannabis needs, and we believe it’s time to change that.

In 2018, then Home Secretary Sajid Javid MP introduced new rules allowing specialist medical practitioners, but not general practitioners (GPs), to prescribe cannabis medicines. This change resulted in about 1,000 patients receiving cannabis prescriptions through the NHS annually, with an additional 20,000 patients obtaining private prescriptions each year.

However, these numbers pale in comparison to the 1.8 million people in the UK accessing the illicit cannabis market for medical reasons. This issue stems, in part, from the fact that GPs are unable to prescribe medical cannabis and the prohibitive cost of private prescriptions for those on low incomes or disability benefits.

The Protect Our Patients campaign calls for a change in policy, allowing GPs to prescribe medical cannabis to their patients. This relatively straightforward change would greatly benefit countless patients in need. The campaign is seeking support from various industry organisations, including the Society, Volteface, and Maple Tree Consultants, to rally behind this critical initiative.

Soicety Founder and CIC President, Professor Mike Barnes, highlighted the importance of the campaign, stating, “The current model for medical cannabis where only consultants can prescribe is simply not working in the interests of the majority of patients.” He urged the industry to unite around this agenda to better protect patients in need.

The Society fully supports the Protect Our Patients campaign and GP prescribing of medical cannabis. We also welcome GPs as members of our Society, recognising the essential role they play in patient care.

To support the campaign, you can share its details, including the video, on your social media channels using #ProtectOurPatients.

Visit the website at www.protectourpatients.co.uk for more.

Together, we can advocate for more accessible medical cannabis and ensure that patients receive the care they deserve. Let’s work together to make medical cannabis more widely available and help patients access the medicine they so desperately need.

We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to our newest supporter, Althea. Their commitment to our cause further strengthens our mission and reinforces the importance of collaboration within the medical cannabis sector.

Meet Althea

Althea, a global pharmaceutical company, specialises in distributing medicinal cannabis products to various markets such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Australia, and South Africa. They use their extensive expertise to collaborate with healthcare professionals, educating them on the clinical usage of medicinal cannabis and simplifying prescribing pathways to achieve the best clinical outcomes for patients.

Proudly offering Concierge, a Therapeutic Goods Administration-registered medical device, Althea delivers a range of education, access, and management tools to assist healthcare professionals and eligible patients in navigating medicinal cannabis treatment pathways. To learn more, one can register for Concierge here: Login – Althea Concierge, or contact [email protected].

We are proud to offer Concierge, a Therapeutic Goods Administration-registered medical device, which provides a range of education, access, and management tools to support healthcare professionals and eligible patients in navigating medicinal cannabis treatment pathways. To learn more, register for Concierge at the following link Login – Althea Concierge or contact [email protected].

Focusing on quality and consistency, Althea’s comprehensive portfolio of full-spectrum products is manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice regulations. The company believes in the potential value of the entourage effect offered by full-spectrum products (*1&2).

For more information about Althea, their product portfolio, and the services they provide, please reach out to them at [email protected].

 

Supporting the MCCS

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is grateful for the continued support from licensed producers, industry leaders, and individuals alike, which enables us to achieve our objectives.

This generous unrestricted educational grant funding empowers the Society to offer CPD-accredited training, events, and peer support, fostering the development and expansion of the UK’s largest and most esteemed network of prescribers.

Organizations interested in collaborating with the Society are encouraged to reach out and discover the advantages of joining forces to enhance our collective impact.

 

References

1. Russo, E., 2019. The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9.
2. Baron, E., 2018. Medicinal Properties of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids in Cannabis, and Benefits in Migraine, Headache, and Pain: An Update on Current Evidence and Cannabis Science. Headache, 58(7), pp.1139-1186.

A Three-Part Webinar Series by the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society

As medical cannabis continues to gain recognition as a potential treatment option for various health conditions, it’s essential for healthcare professionals to stay informed and educated. The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is proud to present a three-part webinar series designed to provide medical professionals with a comprehensive overview of medical cannabis pharmacology, UK regulations, practical prescribing considerations, and the multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach to prescribing.

Led by members of the Society’s Expert Committee, these engaging webinars will offer evidence-based insights, practical guidance, and real-world case discussions to help medical professionals deepen their understanding of medical cannabis and its potential applications. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, medical student, or pharmacist, this exclusive webinar series offers a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field and join a supportive community of like-minded professionals interested in advancing their knowledge in medical cannabis.

Each webinar in the series will focus on different aspects of medical cannabis, providing a well-rounded educational experience for healthcare professionals who are interested in incorporating medical cannabis into their practice.

 

2023 Webinar 1

An Introduction to Medical Cannabis for Healthcare Professionals

This webinar is the first in a series of three webinars that are specifically designed to provide medical professionals with a comprehensive understanding of medical cannabis. Join us for an engaging and informative introduction to medical cannabis pharmacology and UK regulations, designed specifically for medical professionals who are curious about this emerging field. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, medical student, or pharmacist, this webinar will provide you with a comprehensive overview of medical cannabis and its applications in clinical practice in the UK.

During this webinar, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field of medical cannabis, who will share their insights and knowledge on topics including:

This webinar will be delivered in an engaging and interactive format, with opportunities for Q&A sessions with the experts, allowing you to get your questions answered by leading professionals in the field.

Register here

 

Webinar 2

The Practicalities of Prescribing Medical Cannabis

In the second webinar of the series, we will dive into the practicalities of prescribing medical cannabis as a GMC registered Specialist (Consultant). This webinar will cover important topics such as applying for an FP10 license, understanding insurance considerations, and dosing guidelines. Our expert speakers will provide insights and guidance on navigating the regulatory requirements and practical considerations of prescribing medical cannabis, ensuring that doctors are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently prescribe medical cannabis in their practice.

Register here

 

Medical Cannabis MDT Review – Real Cases Discussed with Expert Clinicians

The third webinar in the series will provide a unique opportunity to understand the multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach to prescribing medical cannabis. Through real cases discussed with expert clinicians, attendees will gain valuable insights into how medical cannabis is integrated into a holistic treatment plan, involving a collaborative effort between various healthcare professionals. This webinar will provide a comprehensive understanding of the MDT approach to prescribing medical cannabis, covering the practical, ethical, and legal considerations involved in the decision-making process.

Register here

 

Sign up for all three webinars

Certificates of attendance will be provided for professional development purposes. Don’t miss out on this exclusive series of webinars designed to provide medical professionals with comprehensive knowledge and practical insights on medical cannabis. Register now to secure your spot for all three webinars and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field of medicine.

Introducing the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to supporting clinicians in the UK who are interested in advancing their understanding of medical cannabis.

With a mission to promote education, research, and best practices in medical cannabis, the Society provides a platform for clinicians to access support from experts in the field and connect with peers who share a common interest in this emerging area of medicine. The Society is committed to promoting evidence-based, patient-centred care and fostering a community of medical professionals who are at the forefront of medical cannabis education and practice in the UK.

 

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is pleased to announce that the Primary Care Cannabis Network (PCCN) has become a part of our Society. This is an important step forward in our mission to normalise the conversation around medical cannabis and increase clinician knowledge of this treatment in the UK. We look forward to working together towards our shared goals.

Continuing and developing the work of the PCCN

The PCCN was set up in November 2019 by GP Dr Leon Barron to provide GP education in medical cannabis. Striving to increase knowledge and open dialogue, the PCCN worked to create an environment of balance and understanding around this rapidly developing field of medicine within primary healthcare. Its goals – to eradicate stigma associated with medical cannabis and improve the primary care sector’s comfort in discussing treatment options with patients – are aligned with the vision and mission of the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society.

In order to better meet our joint goals, the Society has welcomed the PCCN and its members into the Society. By educating and supporting general practitioners (GPs) with current guidelines and evidence-based medicine, the Society can ensure that primary care providers have access to the most up to date resources to enable informed conversations with patients.

The integration of the PCCN with the Society will give every clinician the opportunity to be part of the biggest network of healthcare professionals dedicated to expanding access to medical cannabis treatment through education and support.

The role of GPs in the widespread understanding of medical cannabis as a treatment option

As the frontline in patient access to specialist clinicians, GPs have a crucial role to play in the understanding and acceptance of medical cannabis as a treatment option for patients in the UK. 

Learn more

Why should GPs be open minded about talking to patients who are self medicating with cannabis in the UK?

GPs should be open minded about talking to patients who are self medicating with cannabis because it is becoming increasingly accepted in the UK as an effective means of treating various health conditions. 

Learn more

Can GPs prescribe medical cannabis in the UK?

Currently in the UK, prescriptions for unlicensed cannabis based medicines can only be initiated by a doctor on the GMC specialist register (consultants) and must be initiated on a private prescription. Unlike most other countries across the globe where medical cannabis is legal, current UK legislation does not permit GPs to initiate treatment for medical cannabis. However, GPs can play an important role in the management and monitoring of their patient’s use of medical cannabis, and a GP can prescribe under shared care arrangements under the direction of a specialist.

Learn more

Comprehensive education and support for GPs through the Society

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is an important resource for clinicians in regards to the education, peer support, and guidance related to medical cannabis use. Through the integration of the PCCN, a new sub group will be formed to provide GP focussed education and peer support.

All the resources from the PCCN will be available via the Society website. This includes access to evidence-based information and practical resources.

In addition, the Society will provide opportunities for GPs to network with peers and discuss the opportunities for GP prescribing of medical cannabis within a supportive environment.

PCCN Members – Join the Society today

Joining the Society provides GPs with access to training and resources from leading experts in the field. In addition, members can benefit from ongoing support and guidance on prescribing medical cannabis, as well as staying up to date with changing regulations. The Society also organises regular events for members to exchange ideas and discuss best practices in medical cannabis.

As members, GPs can ensure they are up to date with the latest evidence-based information in this field and help their patients access effective medical cannabis treatments.

Current members of the PCCN are invited to become members of the Society at no cost for the first year of membership.

Join now

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society recently endorsed and participated in the 2nd International Congress on Clinical Trials on Cannabis (CT-Cann2023), an education and scientific conference aimed at clinicians and researchers working in the field of medical cannabis. This conference was an excellent opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise with others and learn from our peers about the latest developments and research in this rapidly-evolving field.

At MCCS, we are committed to providing education and support for clinicians on the safe and effective use of medical cannabis to improve patient outcomes. We believe that education and collaboration among healthcare professionals is critical to achieving this goal. That is why we were not only delighted to participate in this conference but also to endorse the event.

During the conference, we had the opportunity to hear from leading experts in the field of medical cannabis research, policy, and practice, including Dr David Finn, Dr Silviu Brill, Prof Dedi Meiri, Dr Staci Gruber and Dr Haggai Sharon.

During the conference, we were pleased to have several members of the MCCS expert committee speak and share their knowledge with the audience. Prof Mike Barnes opened the conference with an overview of the current UK status of medical cannabis in the UK and the challenges. We believe that this discussion was particularly valuable for clinicians developing their prescribing practice. Vice-Chair, Dr. Dani Gordon, presented on the research findings on cannabis and long COVID, which was a topic of great interest to many attendees. Dr. Gordon’s presentation highlighted the potential benefits of using medical cannabis to manage long-term symptoms of COVID-19. We also had the pleasure of hearing from Dr. Niraj Singh, who spoke about the MCCS, our vision and mission, and the practical support we provide to our members. Dr. Singh gave a helpful overview of the tools and resources that MCCS members have access to, such as our educational program, clinical guidelines, and peer support network. This presentation was particularly relevant for clinicians who are new to the field of medical cannabis, as it provided an overview of the support available to them as they navigate this complex and rapidly-evolving field.

We appreciated the opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise with other attendees and to learn from our peers. As the medical cannabis industry continues to develop, we believe that collaboration and education among healthcare professionals is more important than ever.

We are committed to continuing to endorse and participate in conference and other like it to have the opportunity to engage with other clinicians and researchers working in the field of medical cannabis. We believe that this type of event, which brings together a diverse group of healthcare professionals, is essential for fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. As we move forward, we will keep working toward our goal of providing education and support for doctors who prescribe medical cannabis to improve patient outcomes.

New to medical cannabis prescribing?

We would like to invite clinicians who are interested in the field of medical cannabis to become members of the MCCS. As a member, you will have access to a wealth of educational resources and tools, as well as the opportunity to connect with other healthcare professionals working in this field. We are a supportive community of like-minded professionals, and we are committed to promoting safe and effective use of medical cannabis to improve patient outcomes.

To become a member of the MCCS, please join here. Our membership is open to all healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other allied healthcare professionals. We also offer student memberships for those who are currently studying healthcare professions.

We look forward to welcoming new members to the MCCS and working together to advance the field of medical cannabis education, research, policy, and practice.

 

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society is proud to officially endorse the 2nd International Congress on Clinical Trials on Cannabis, taking place on 15 & 16 February 2023 in London.

This unique conference – the only one of its kind in the UK – will inform participants of the latest evidence and concepts regarding cannabinoid therapy. It will aid prescribers to practically implement best practices based on the clinical implications of current research and expert opinions and serve as a platform for an exchange of ideas and practices in cannabinoid medicine.

Agenda and speakers

CT-Cann2023 will bring together global experts to discuss ways of improving current research strategies, new discoveries, practical dilemmas and future avenues in this rapidly evolving field. Ideal for MCCS members and those wishing to learn more about this treatment, the congress will include basic and clinical methodologies, new findings, regulatory and legal issues, pharmacological considerations, and technological advancements, emphasising practical implications for patients, researchers, prescribing clinicians and industry leaders.

The agenda is currently being confirmed with new speakers being added. The Preliminary speakers include:

The MCCS has secured a 15% discount for its members when you register before 21 December 2022. To become a member of the Society, join online today. 
Book Your Place

If you are a member and have not yet received the discount code, please contact us.

Call for Abstracts

The Congress Chairs invite the submission of original abstracts for Oral and/or Poster presentation – deadline 9 January 2023. Topics can include:

submit abstract for ct-cann2023

MCCS endorse 2nd International Congress on Clinical Trials on Cannabis

Virtual roundtable – watch again

On 13 December, international paediatric neurologists and medical cannabis experts came together for a panel discussion about the UK’s prescribing crisis for children with intractable epilepsy.

Hosted by the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society, the roundtable discussion will reviewed the guidance, shed light on the concerns, and considered a way ahead for these children. The discussion provides doctors, clinicians, the wider paediatric medical community and parents of children with this condition accurate information about cannabis-based treatment.

Moderated by Dr Dani Gordon, Vice-Chair of the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society, panellists – including Canadian Paediatric Neurologists Dr Evan Lewis and Dr JP Appendino, Consultant Paediatrician Dr Jane Hailey and Paediatric Cannabis Consultant Dr Bonni Goldstein –  shared experiences, evidence and case studies for medical cannabis for intractable epilepsy and the difference this is making for children globally.

Epileptic seizure frequency fell by an average of 86% among 10 children treated with whole plant medicinal cannabis, reveals research by charity Drug Science and published in BMJ Paediatrics Open. 

None of the children had responded to other treatments, including the only cannabidiol (CBD) product licensed for their condition – Epidyolex. Whole plant cannabis includes tetrahydocannabinol or THC for short, the main active ingredient of the plant that is responsible for the characteristic ‘high’ associated with recreational use, plus cannabidiol, other neuroactive cannabinoids, and molecules such as terpenes.

Researchers evaluated the use of whole plant medicinal cannabis in 10 children whose severe epilepsy hadn’t responded to conventional treatment, and two of whom hadn’t responded to the only pharmaceutical grade, purified CBD oil licensed for the condition in children (Epidyolex).

The researchers assessed the percentage change in monthly seizure frequency and the impact of medicinal cannabis on changes in conventional epilepsy drug use. They also reported the strengths and doses used and the costs incurred.

All the participants were recruited from End Our Pain and MedCan Support, two charities representing children using medicinal cannabis to treat their severe epilepsy. The children’s average age was 6, but ranged from 1 to 13 years. They had a range of epilepsies and three had other concurrent issues, including infantile spasms, learning disabilities, and global developmental delay.

Monthly seizure frequency reduced for all 10 children by an overall average of 86%.

The Drug Science researchers said:

“We believe that our data on whole-plant medical cannabis in childhood-onset severe treatment-resistant epilepsy, provides evidence to support its introduction into the NHS within current NICE prescribing guidelines. 

“Such a move would be hugely beneficial to the families, who in addition to having the psychological distress of looking after their chronically ill children, have also to cover the crippling financial burden of their medication.”

The Society is dedicated to training and supporting doctors to prescribe medical cannabis where clinically appropriate, and recently vowed to train paediatric doctors for free in order to go some way towards alleviating the prescribing crisis for children with epilepsy.

Read the full publication

 

 

The BPNA recently produced new guidance on the prescription of cannabis medicines for children with epilepsy. However, the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society (UKMCCS) and Drug Science fundamentally disagree with this guidance. Expert clinicians from both organisations have produced a critique to provide commentary, evidence and further crucial information.

Download the commentary (PDF)

In the BPNA’s guidance, there is no recognition that the children in question have uncontrolled, drug-resistant epilepsy. They have a poor quality of life, often difficulties in school, in play and at home, and the whole family suffer from the consequences. In their commentary, the Society and Drug Science point out that recurrent seizures damage the developing brain and such severe seizures are associated with a risk of status epilepticus and death. The Society and Drug Science believe that clinicians must explore every avenue in an attempt to alleviate the seizures.

NICE guidance is now supportive of continuing prescription for those already on a cannabis product but sadly the BPNA will not change its stance on the subject. As a result, there are now only two prescribers, one of whom is retiring and neither of whom are taking on new patients.

This means over 50 children currently accessing their prescribed cannabis-based medicines are relying on just one doctor for continuing access to the only treatments that have kept them well and reduced hospital and ITU admissions. And, with no new children currently able to access a prescription, seriously ill children are at real risk of imminent harm.

Professor Mike Barnes, Chair of the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society said:

“Professor Helen Cross was the first clinician to prescribe an unlicensed cannabis-based medicine for childhood epilepsy in 2013. That was a brave and correct move when a child was in extremis. It is a pity that the BPNA’s current executive committee members have reverted to an old and outdated paradigm of efficacy to the clear detriment of many thousands of children in the UK. The Society will teach any paediatric doctor – free of charge – how to prescribe medical cannabis products and provide ongoing mentoring and support.

We call for recognition of the value of unlicensed cannabis-based medicinal products by sensible and caring paediatricians in the UK.”

All medical practitioners, and in particular the BPNA executive committee, should note the General Medical Council “Good Medical Practice” principles. We specifically draw attention to these points:

David Badcock, Chief Executive Officer of Drug Science said:

“Our research into childhood intractable epilepsy clearly and consistently shows that the benefits of whole-plant medical cannabis far outweigh any associated risks.

The parents we have spoken to, as part of this work, find medical cannabis to be the most effective treatment for their child’s condition. Yet the BPNA appear to have ignored our evidence and these experiences. Instead, they seem to be wilfully denying access to legal medicines, and causing needless distress for families who deserve better.”

The Society and Drug Science call for recognition of the value of cannabis based medicinal products by sensible and caring paediatricians in the UK.

 

How to read the document

The original wording from the BPNA is retained in black. Our comments and additions are highlighted in green.

Download

Free training and support for paediatricians

The Society will teach any paediatric doctor – free of charge – how to prescribe medical cannabis products and provide ongoing mentoring and support.

Please contact us to learn more.

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society’s Guide to CBD has been newly updated for 2021.

The expanded guidance supports doctors and clinicians who wish to understand how CBD works, what a good CBD product looks like, and how better to support patients who are taking CBD.

Version 2 of the guidance, written by the Society’s Dr Leon Barron, Vice-Chair Dr Dani Gordon and Chair, Prof Mike Barnes, has been supported by expert researchers at Bud & Tender.

Download the guide here.

On Thursday 21st October, join The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society and Bud & Tender as we explore what clinicians need to know about CBD. A fantastic live overview of the guide, this webinar will provide an overview of CBD for clinicians, including Endocannabinoid tone, modes of action and therapeutic effects, pharmacodynamics, different types of CBD oil available in the UK, controlled cannabinoids, Certificates of Analysis (COA’s) and dosing. We also summarise the current legal status of CBD in the UK.

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