Medical Cannabis Capsules

At Medicann Clinics, we provide free consultations for life, no repeat prescription fees, same-day UK despatch, and we are the lowest-cost medical cannabis clinic in the UK. Our care is specialist-led, patient-centred, and fully compliant with UK regulations.

If you are considering medical cannabis capsules, you can check your eligibility here or read on to learn more.

What Are Medical Cannabis Capsules?

Medical cannabis capsules are oral, prescription-only medicines containing measured amounts of cannabinoids, most commonly:

CBD (cannabidiol)
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

The cannabinoids are enclosed in a capsule, usually with a carrier oil, to allow them to be swallowed like any other oral medication. In the UK, terms such as cannabis capsules, CBD capsules, THC capsules, or marijuana capsules all refer to regulated, prescription-only cannabinoid medicines - not over-the-counter supplements or recreational products.

Unlike unregulated products, prescribed cannabis capsules are:

Manufactured to medical-grade standards
Batch-tested for quality, consistency, and purity
Prescribed only following a full clinical assessment by a specialist doctor.

They are sometimes considered for patients who prefer not to inhale medication or who want a discreet, familiar format similar to conventional tablets.

How Medical Cannabis Capsules Work in the Body

The human body has a natural system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays a role in regulating functions such as:

Pain signalling
Inflammation responses
Mood and stress regulation
Sleep-wake cycles
Appetite and digestion.

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC interact with receptors within this system. When cannabis capsules are swallowed, the cannabinoids are absorbed through the digestive system and processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream.

Because of this route:

Onset is slower than inhaled forms (often 1-3 hours)
Effects may last longer and feel more gradual
Dosing needs to be carefully managed.

Research into cannabinoid medicine is ongoing. While some patients report improvements in certain symptoms, responses vary significantly between individuals. Your Medicann clinician will assess whether capsules are appropriate for you based on your medical history and treatment goals.

Types of Medical Cannabis Capsules

Specialist doctors may prescribe different formulations depending on individual needs:

CBD-Dominant Capsules (CBD Capsules)

Contain high levels of CBD with little or no THC
Do not cause intoxication
May be considered when THC is not suitable

Balanced CBD: THC Capsules

Contain both cannabinoids in specific ratios
Sometimes prescribed when broader symptom management is being explored

THC-Dominant Capsules (THC Capsules)

Contain higher levels of THC
Prescribed only when clinically appropriate
Require careful monitoring due to a higher risk of side effects

All formulations are prescribed on a case-by-case basis following specialist review.

What Conditions Are Medical Cannabis Capsules Sometimes Considered For?

Medical cannabis capsules do not treat, cure, or prevent any condition. However, they may be considered for adults with long-term conditions when conventional treatments have not provided adequate symptom relief.

Conditions that may be assessed include:

Chronic pain conditions, including neuropathic pain
Conditions involving ongoing inflammation or discomfort
Sleep disturbances linked to long-term illness
Anxiety-related symptoms, under specialist psychiatric oversight
Certain neurological conditions, such as symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis.

Eligibility is always determined by a Medicann clinician following review of your GP records and previous treatments.

How to Use Medical Cannabis Capsules

Your Medicann specialist will give personalised instructions, but general guidance includes:

Capsules are swallowed whole, usually with water
They may be taken with or without food, depending on clinical advice
Consistency in timing is often recommended.

Because capsules have a slower onset, patients are usually advised not to take additional doses too soon. Effects build gradually, and regular follow-up appointments help your clinician assess how you are responding.

Medicann offers free follow-up consultations for life, allowing your care to be adjusted safely if needed.

Dosage: What You Should Know

There is no single "standard" dose for medical cannabis capsules. Medicann clinicians follow a recognised safety approach known as "start low and go slow."

Your doctor will advise on:

Your starting dose
How and when doses may be adjusted
Maximum daily limits
When progress will be reviewed.

Dosage can vary depending on factors such as:

Body weight and metabolism
Sensitivity to cannabinoids
Other medications you take
The nature of your symptoms.

Never change your dose without medical guidance. Cannabis capsules are prescription-only medicines and must be taken exactly as directed.

Pros and Cons of Medical Cannabis Capsules

Potential Advantages:

Discreet and familiar capsule format
No inhalation required
Precise, measured dosing
Longer-lasting effects compared with inhaled forms
Suitable for patients who prefer oral medicines

Potential Limitations:

Slower onset of effects
Not suitable for everyone
THC-containing capsules may cause side effects
Requires careful dose titration and monitoring
Private prescriptions are not NHS-funded

You can explore this in more detail on our medical cannabis pros and cons page.

Possible Side Effects of Medical Cannabis Capsules

Side effects vary depending on the formulation, dose, and individual sensitivity.

Commonly Reported Side Effects:

Dry mouth
Drowsiness or fatigue
Mild dizziness
Digestive discomfort

Less Common Side Effects:

Short-term concentration difficulties
Light-headedness
Anxiety or restlessness in some individuals

Who Should Not Use Medical Cannabis Capsules?

Medical cannabis capsules may not be suitable for:

People under 21
Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding
People with certain psychiatric conditions
Individuals with some heart conditions
Anyone with a history of severe reactions to cannabinoids
Those unable to follow driving guidance for THC-containing medicines

Your Medicann clinician will assess safety and suitability as part of the prescribing pathway.

FAQs

Are medical cannabis capsules legal in the UK?

Yes. Since November 2018, specialist doctors have been allowed to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use when clinically appropriate.

Will cannabis capsules make me feel "high"?

CBD capsules do not cause intoxication. THC capsules may have psychoactive effects, which is why careful dosing and monitoring are essential.

How long do cannabis capsules take to work?

Capsules usually take longer to work than inhaled forms - often one to three hours - but effects may last longer.

Are cannabis capsules the same as over-the-counter CBD supplements?

No. Prescription capsules are medical-grade medicines, overseen by a specialist doctor, and may contain THC, which cannot be legally purchased without a prescription.

Can I drive while taking medical cannabis capsules?

Driving rules depend on whether your medicine contains THC. Your clinician will explain your responsibilities clearly.

For more answers, visit our FAQs page or contact our team.

Start Your Medicann Journey

Medical cannabis capsules may be an option worth exploring if other treatments haven't provided enough relief. Medicann offers a clear, supportive, considered pathway:

Free consultations for life
No repeat prescription fees
Same-day UK despatch
Specialist-led, patient-centred care

Check your eligibility today, or download the Medicann app to learn more.

Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis by a Medicann clinician.