How it works

Medical cannabis may help manage various conditions and symptoms. To determine if you’re eligible for treatment through Emerald, complete our eligibility check.

www.emeraldhealth.co.uk

Cannabinoids—like THC and CBD—work by interacting with a natural system in the body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate important functions such as pain, sleep, mood, appetite, inflammation, and immune response.

The ECS has special receptors found throughout the brain and body:

• CB1 receptors, mainly in the brain and nervous system, affect things like pain, memory, and mood.
• CB2 receptors, mostly in the immune system, help manage inflammation and immune activity.

THC binds mostly to CB1 receptors, which is why it can influence pain relief and also cause a feeling of being “high.” CBD works differently—it doesn’t bind strongly to these receptors but helps balance the system and may reduce pain, anxiety, and inflammation without making you feel high.

In short, cannabinoids support the body’s natural balance, especially when the usual systems are out of sync due to illness or chronic symptoms.

Like all prescription medications, cannabis-based medicines have contraindications—specific conditions where a drug may be unsafe or unsuitable.

Contraindications refers to certain conditions or circumstances in which a specific medication should be avoided, as its use could potentially harm the patient.

Before prescribing, Emerald’ specialists review health records to:

• Identify potential risks or contraindications related to your health condition.
• Ensure cannabis-based treatment is safe and appropriate for your specific needs.
• Confirm that any existing medications or medical conditions will not interact negatively with cannabis-based medicines.

This screening process helps promote safe care, minimising risks while ensuring treatment is tailored to individual health backgrounds. 

Every new patient must be seen by an Emerald specialist before accessing treatment.

Each doctor is responsible for their own prescribing decisions, which means they need to meet you during an appointment, review your medical history, and understand your needs before proceeding.

It is not possible to access cannabis-based medicines through Emerald without completing the registration process and an initial assessment.

Driving while using medical cannabis requires careful consideration of legal and safety guidelines. 

To access this please follow the link below:

https://www.cicouncil.org.uk/resources/cannabis-driving/cannabis-driving-guidance-for-patients/

Emerald can offer general guidance, but this does not replace professional legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 

Please also see the link to the DVLA online driving and health checker. Please follow the instructions shown if your condition is not listed. A condition which is not listed does not mean there is not a requirement to self-report. We also advise checking the terms of your motor insurance

https://www.gov.uk/health-conditions-and-driving 

Important safety reminders:

• This advice applies to all medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements.
• Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel impaired.
• Use all medicines, including cannabis-based treatments, strictly as directed.

Emerald has a preferred pharmacy with whom it works to ensure the fastest possible dispensing of your prescription. Our partnership also ensures you do not pay any fees for dispensing or shipping.

You may bring your prescription to another pharmacy if you choose, but this may result in delays and additional costs. Emerald takes no responsibility for the service of another pharmacy.