Mamedica is a London, UK-based medical cannabis clinic which was founded in 2021 and launched in 2022.[citation needed] It is one of four UK clinics licensed to prescribe and dispense medical cannabis.[citation needed]
History
In August 2022, it published a survey of 4,000 people which found that 60% of British people would consider using cannabis to treat medical conditions, particularly if prescribed by a doctor.[1][2] A February 2023 survey for Mamedica found a third of respondents would use medical marijuana to help treat depression.[3]
In June 2023, Mamedica announced a strategic UK partnership with Canadian medical cannabis products supplier 4C Labs.[4]
The clinic has reported a 400% increase in patients since it was founded.[5] Robson says the clinic aims "to offer an alternative to conventional medicines to individuals who are struggling with a severe medical condition and desire to regain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives".[6]
Mamedica is a member of the UK's Cannabis Industry Council.[7]
Patient conditions
Since June 2022, 40% of Mamedica's prescriptions have been for mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder.[8] In 2023, Mamedica reported an increase in demand from patients suffering from psychiatric conditions and opting to use medical cannabis as a replacement for traditional medication that can cause side effects.[9]
In addition, the clinic prescribes CBD to support patients with menopause symptoms like hot flushes,[10] and the clinic supports patients living with chronic neurological pain, with bespoke cannabis-based prescription medicines (CBPMs) that improve individuals' overall quality of life by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.[11]
Eligibility for treatment
While more than 89,000 private medical cannabis prescriptions have been made in the UK, there have been fewer than five medical cannabis prescriptions via the NHS.[12] UK legislation states that a prescription for medical cannabis can only be initiated by a specialist consultant on the General Medical Council (GMC) register.[13] Before patients can book a Mamedica consultation, they need to have tried at least two licensed medications or treatments and must not have any history of schizophrenia or psychosis.[14] Patients must provide their medical records and details about their family medical history to mitigate any potential risks of using CBPMs.[14]
Treatment
Mamedica doctors can prescribe CBPMs including THC, Cannabidiol (CBD) and balanced cannabis profiles and cannabis flower, oil, capsules and cartridges for patients living with chronic conditions.[15] Mamedica's cannabis flower prescriptions are strictly for use in dry-herb vaporisers, devices that let patients heat the flower and inhale its contents as a vapour.[14]
See also
References
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