Medical Cannabis for PTSD in the UK

Common in veteran and trauma populations

The short answer

A specialist doctor in the UK can consider prescribing medical cannabis for PTSD through a private clinic. Most clinics ask for a diagnosis, ideally from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, and evidence that at least one talking therapy and one medicine have been tried. Whether it is suitable for you is the specialist's decision.

Medical disclaimer: This information is for general guidance and does not constitute medical advice. The evidence base for cannabis-based medicines varies by condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional. Wording last changed on .

Overview

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops in some people after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterised by intrusive memories, hyperarousal, avoidance behaviours, and negative changes in mood and cognition. Medical cannabis is increasingly prescribed for PTSD in the UK, particularly where first-line treatments have been ineffective.

Common Symptoms

  • Flashbacks and intrusive memories of the traumatic event
  • Nightmares and sleep disturbance
  • Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response
  • Avoidance of trauma-related triggers
  • Emotional numbness or detachment
  • Difficulty concentrating

Conventional Treatments

Typically tried before medical cannabis is considered

  • Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT)
  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)
  • SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine)
  • Venlafaxine
  • Prazosin (for nightmares)

Eligibility Notes

Most clinics require evidence of a PTSD diagnosis (ideally from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist) and that at least one evidence-based talking therapy and one pharmacological treatment have been tried. A letter from your treating clinician or GP helps significantly.

How to get a prescriptionFive questions clinics usually ask

This page covers how to get assessed. What the research says about treatment for PTSD will be added here once it has been reviewed by a qualified professional. Your specialist is the person to ask about treatment.

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Information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. The evidence base for cannabis-based medicines varies. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your treatment.