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Patient Information Leaflet

Introduction to Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis, often referred to as medical marijuana, consists of chemicals and compounds extracted from the cannabis plant that are used for medicinal purposes. The primary compounds of interest are Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While CBD is known for its calming effects and does not cause a ‘high,’ THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis that can alter perceptions and mood.

Medical cannabis is used in the treatment of a variety of health conditions and symptoms, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and the side effects of chemotherapy, among others. It is prescribed in various forms, such as oils, capsules, or sprays.

Legal Status in the UK

In the UK, medical cannabis was legalised for prescription in 2018, allowing doctors to prescribe it in limited circumstances. It’s important to note that medical cannabis is prescribed only when other treatments have not been effective. The legal framework ensures its controlled distribution and use, prioritising patient safety and adherence to medical standards.

Benefits and Uses

Medical cannabis has shown promise in providing relief from chronic pain, improving sleep, reducing inflammation, and alleviating symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Its use is particularly noted in conditions that have not responded well to conventional treatments. Clinical research is ongoing to better understand the full scope and efficacy of medical cannabis in various medical contexts.

Our Service Explained

About Treat-It at CityDock Pharmacy

Treat-It at CityDock Pharmacy represents a collaborative initiative to bring medical cannabis prescription services directly to patients in a safe, secure, and professional environment. Our service is designed to provide personalised care, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and health conditions.

How We Differ

Our approach is patient-centric, focusing on comprehensive care. Here’s how we stand out:

  • Personalised Consultations: Each patient undergoes a thorough consultation to assess their suitability for medical cannabis, ensuring that prescriptions are tailored to their specific health needs.
  • Qualified Professionals: Our team comprises healthcare professionals who are experienced and trained in medical cannabis prescription and patient care.
  • Integrated Care: We work closely with other healthcare providers to integrate medical cannabis treatment into the broader spectrum of patient care.
  • Education and Support: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. This includes providing detailed information about medical cannabis, its benefits, risks, and legal status, as well as ongoing support throughout the treatment.
  • Ethical and Legal Compliance: We strictly adhere to UK laws and ethical standards in prescribing medical cannabis, ensuring patient safety and confidentiality at every step.

Our goal at ‘Treat-It’ is not only to provide access to medical cannabis but to do so in a manner that is responsible, informed, and centered around the well-being of each patient we serve.

Before Your Consultation

Preparing for Your Visit

To ensure that your consultation is as effective and informative as possible, we ask you to come prepared. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Essential Documents: Bring a valid form of identification (ID), such as a driver’s licence or passport, and any relevant medical records or reports. This helps us verify your identity and understand your medical history.
  2. Medication List: Compile a list of current medications, including any over-the-counter drugs or supplements you’re taking. This information is crucial for evaluating potential drug interactions.
  3. Symptom Diary: Consider keeping a diary of your symptoms leading up to the consultation. Note down the severity, frequency, and any triggers you might have noticed.
  4. Write Down Your Questions: It’s natural to have questions about medical cannabis and how it might work for you. Write them down so you won’t forget to ask during your consultation.
  5. Dietary and Lifestyle Information: Be ready to discuss your diet and lifestyle, as these can influence the effectiveness of medical cannabis treatments.
  6. Insurance Details: If applicable, bring your insurance information to check if your provider covers the consultation and treatment.

Check-In Process

On arrival, please check in with the Pharmacist. Our staff will guide you through the initial formalities before your consultation.

During Your Consultation

The Consultation Process

Your consultation at ‘Treat-It’ is a critical step in your journey towards potential treatment with medical cannabis. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Assessment: The consultation begins with an initial assessment where we review your medical history, discuss your current health issues, and understand your treatment goals.

Discussion of Medical Cannabis: We provide information about medical cannabis, including how it works, potential benefits, risks, and side effects. We aim to ensure you have a clear understanding of what medical cannabis treatment involves.

Personalised Treatment Plan: If medical cannabis is deemed suitable for you, we’ll discuss the formulation, dosage, and administration method that best suits your condition and lifestyle.

Consent and Agreement: Before proceeding with any treatment, we require your informed consent, ensuring that you fully understand and agree to the proposed treatment plan.

Addressing Your Questions: We dedicate time to address any questions or concerns you might have. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and comfortable with all aspects of your potential treatment.

Follow-Up Plan: We discuss the follow-up plan, including how we monitor your response to the treatment and any scheduled check-ins.

Confidentiality and Ethics

We adhere strictly to patient confidentiality and ethical medical practices. Your personal and medical information is treated with the utmost respect and privacy.

After Your Consultation

Next Steps Following Your Consultation

Once your consultation at Treat-It is complete, several key steps follow:

  1. Prescription and Treatment Plan: If medical cannabis is prescribed, you’ll receive a detailed treatment plan. This plan outlines the specific type of cannabis product, dosage, administration method, and the duration of the treatment.
  2. Pharmacy Coordination: Our team will coordinate with CityDock Pharmacy to ensure your prescription is ready for pickup. You’ll receive instructions on how and when to collect your medication.
  3. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial. These allow us to monitor your response to the treatment, make any necessary adjustments, and provide ongoing support.
  4. Patient Portal Access: You will have access to a patient portal where you can track your treatment progress, view upcoming appointments, and communicate with our healthcare team.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Treatment

Your response to medical cannabis treatment is closely monitored. Based on your feedback and our assessments, we may adjust your treatment plan to better suit your needs and improve outcomes.

Understanding Risks and Side Effects

Potential Risks of Medical Cannabis

Like any medication, medical cannabis comes with potential risks and side effects. It’s important to understand these as part of making an informed decision:

  1. Physical Side Effects: These can include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and changes in appetite. Most side effects are mild and manageable.
  2. Cognitive Effects: Some patients may experience changes in mood, alertness, and cognitive function, especially with products containing THC.
  3. Dependency and Tolerance: There is a potential for developing tolerance or dependency on cannabis, particularly with long-term use.
  4. Interactions with Other Medications: Medical cannabis can interact with other medications. It’s crucial to inform us of all medications you’re taking to avoid adverse interactions.

Managing Side Effects

We take a proactive approach to manage side effects:

  1. Personalised Dosage: Starting with a low dose and adjusting gradually helps minimise side effects.
  2. Patient Education: We provide comprehensive information on managing side effects at home.
  3. Regular Monitoring: Follow-up appointments are used to monitor for any side effects and adjust treatment as necessary.
  4. Open Communication: We encourage patients to report any side effects immediately, no matter how minor they may seem.

Informed Decision-Making

Our team ensures you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision about your treatment. We discuss the benefits and risks in the context of your specific health situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who is eligible for medical cannabis treatment?
A: Eligibility for medical cannabis treatment is determined based on medical history, current health condition, and previous treatments. It is usually considered when other treatments have not been effective.

Q2: Is medical cannabis covered by insurance?
A: Coverage for medical cannabis varies by insurance provider. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific details on coverage.

Q3: How long does it take to see the effects of medical cannabis?
A: The onset of effects depends on the type of medical cannabis and the method of administration. Some forms act quickly, while others may take longer to show effects.

Q4: Can I drive while using medical cannabis?
A: It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Certain forms of medical cannabis, especially those containing THC, may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Legal Compliance

  • Treat-It adheres to all UK laws governing the prescription of medical cannabis, ensuring legal compliance in all aspects of our service.
  • We maintain meticulous records and follow prescribed guidelines for the storage, handling, and dispensing of medical cannabis.

Ethical Standards

  • Our clinicians are committed to the highest ethical standards in patient care, prioritising patient safety, informed consent, and confidentiality.
  • We ensure that patients are fully informed about their treatment options and the risks and benefits of each.

Contact and Support

Contact Information

Additional Resources

Educational Materials