FAQs

Understanding Plant Based Medicine Laws in the UK

Laws around plant based medicine in the UK can sometimes seem confusing. This is due to a number of factors, including recreational laws, plant based medicine law changes, CBD products and other notable aspects around plant based medicine in the UK. Here’s a clear breakdown of how the law treats it both medicinally and recreationally in this country.

When used recreationally in the UK it’s illegal, and classified as a Class B drug. This means that without a valid plant based medicine prescription, possession, cultivation or distribution can lead to legal consequences, including imprisonment for up to five years or an unlimited fine. 

On the other hand, plant based treatment has been legally available in the UK since November 2018. This means that when prescribed by a licensed specialist, you can legally access plant based medication as flower, edibles, vape cartridges, or oils amongst other emerging forms. 

This is not to be confused with CBD products, or CBD treatments, which have become popular in the UK over the last decade and are available to purchase over the counter in supermarkets and pharmacies. These products are legal as long as they do not exceed 1mg of THC per 'container' (bottle or packet). Some people find relief for certain symptoms with these products, but many plant based medicine patients worldwide are prescribed a wide range of different forms, containing other cannabinoids, such as THC, to provide additional symptom relief. 

It’s important to carry the correct documentation if you are a legal plant based patient. Carrying a copy of your prescription, either physically printed or digitally stored on a mobile phone, will verify your status as a plant based medicine patient if ever questioned by the police or other authorities. 

Patients must also ensure that they keep their medication in the original packaging when travelling, as this makes it far easier for authorities to identify your prescription as authentic and yours.

Licence Requirements for Accessing Plant Based Medicine in the UK

To ensure that plant based medicine access is safe, the industry is regulated by multiple authorities. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) oversees the regulation of medicines, including plant based products. In addition, plant based medicine is also subject to controls by the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Care.

Specialists who prescribe plant based medicine must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). These specialists typically have relevant expertise in areas such as pain management, neurology, or psychiatry. They follow strict guidelines when prescribing plant based medicine.

Purchasing Plant Based Medicine: Dispensaries and Private Clinics

Dispensaries, or pharmacies as they are more commonly known in the UK, work closely with plant based medicine clinics to provide plant based medicine to patients.

The process typically begins at a licensed clinic, like Alternaleaf. If the patient qualifies, the prescription is processed by the pharmacy. The pharmacy will deliver the medication and be available to assist with any questions or issues regarding the prescription.

Plant based products cannot be purchased from licensed pharmacies without a valid prescription.

How Much Does Plant Based Medicine Cost in the UK?

When discussing the cost of plant based medicine, it's important to differentiate between service fees and prescription costs. All UK plant based medicine clinics charge service fees, which can include appointment costs, prescription processing fees, and more.

At Alternaleaf, we are proud to offer our services at the best value, providing flexible payment options, including a £10 monthly Membership or Pay As You Go option. We believe that offering flexibility in how you pay for your treatment is essential.

When considering the price of your monthly prescription, several factors come into play. Your condition, symptoms, and specific needs will influence the quantity required, as well as the form and dosage of medication, which can further affect the price. To give you an accurate estimate of your personalised prescription cost, we encourage you to contact us directly so we can provide specific advice tailored to your needs.

Can You Drive While Using Plant Based Medicine in the UK?

Understanding the laws surrounding driving and plant based medicine prescriptions is crucial. Being prescribed plant based medicine provides you with a medical defence under Section 5a, Part 3 of the Road Traffic Act (RTA) for having THC in your system if you're ever pulled over by the police. However, this defence only applies if you are not impaired by your medication. Additionally, you should avoid driving when taking a new form of medication for the first time, especially until you understand how it affects you.

This important advice will also be reiterated on your medication packaging, which will warn against driving if you feel drowsy or sleepy from the medication. As with any medication, it’s important to assess how you feel and ensure that you are safe to drive before getting behind the wheel. While holding a prescription provides a medical defence for having THC in your system, driving recklessly or violating other driving laws can indicate impairment.