Medicinal Cannabis Matters | Friday roundup 9th May 2025
Honouring Hannah Deacon’s legacy & Advancements in Patient Care
This week, we pay tribute to Hannah Deacon. A pioneering advocate whose relentless efforts transformed the UK’s approach to medicinal cannabis. Hannah’s campaign for her son, Alfie Dingley, who suffers from a rare form of epilepsy, led to a landmark change in UK law in 2018, allowing for the prescription of medicinal cannabis. Her work not only provided relief for her son but also paved the way for countless others seeking access to this treatment.
Hannah’s dedication extended beyond her family. She co-founded Maple Tree Consultants, aiming to improve patient access and education around medicinal cannabis and she also worked directly with Medicann during this time. Her legacy continues to inspire progress and reminds us that real change often begins with the courage of one person speaking up for many.
Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time.
A New Cannabinoid Joins the Line-Up
Scientists have identified a previously unknown cannabinoid named cannabielsoxa. Discovered during research into medical cannabis’s anti-cancer potential, this new compound could open doors to future therapeutic uses, though its specific effects are still being studied.
With over 100 cannabinoids already mapped, each with its own interactions in the body, discoveries like this highlight just how much more there is to learn about this complex plant. It’s a reminder that medical cannabis research isn’t slowing down. It’s just getting started.
Medical Cannabis Shows Impact in Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy
A newly published study in Brain and Behavior brings promising insight for people living with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Researchers followed 134 patients who had seen limited success with conventional medications. After six months of medical cannabis treatment, many reported fewer seizures, better sleep, lower anxiety, and a noticeable lift in overall quality of life.
Crucially, over 96% experienced no side effects — strengthening the case for medical cannabis as a safe, well-tolerated option in complex neurological care.
Legal Win Underscores Ongoing Barriers for Patients
Adam Windish, Chief Revenue Officer at British Cannabis, has successfully challenged the UK Border Force after they wrongfully seized his prescribed medication upon entry into the country. Despite presenting documentation proving his legal prescription, Windish’s medication was confiscated, prompting a 15-month legal fight.
This case not only sets a legal precedent but also shines a light on the urgent need for greater education within law enforcement around medical cannabis laws. For patients managing chronic conditions, confidence in the system matters and no one should have to fight for access to a treatment they’re legally entitled to.
Pain Relief Where Other Treatments Can’t Reach
Medical cannabis continues to emerge as a viable option for those living with persistent pain. Recent reporting from PharmiWeb reinforces the plant’s potential to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and support emotional regulation, especially when traditional painkillers have fallen short or caused difficult side effects.
These benefits aren’t one-size-fits-all, and they work best when guided by specialist care. But for many patients, prescribed cannabis is offering something they’ve long been seeking: a treatment that addresses both the symptoms and the person living with them.
Disclaimer:
This blog post and the following featured articles are for information only and any articles on external platforms may be amended at any time. Articles that we refer to in our weekly roundup do not reflect the views of Medicann.
