Medical cannabis capsules are a form of cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) that may be prescribed by a registered specialist doctor in the UK when clinically appropriate.
This page is designed to give you a clear, balanced understanding of medical cannabis capsules, how they work in the body, when they may be considered, how they are used, and important safety information.
At Medicann Clinics, we provide free consultations for life, no repeat prescription fees, same-day UK dispatch, 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.
Medical cannabis capsules are oral, prescription-only medicines containing measured amounts of cannabinoids, most commonly:
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:
They are sometimes considered for patients who prefer not to inhale medication or who want a discreet, familiar format similar to conventional tablets.
The human body has a natural system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays a role in regulating functions such as:
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:
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.
Specialist doctors may prescribe different formulations depending on individual needs:
All formulations are prescribed on a case-by-case basis following specialist review.
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:
Eligibility is always determined by a Medicann clinician following review of your GP records and previous treatments.
Your Medicann specialist will give personalised instructions, but general guidance includes:
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.
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:
Dosage can vary depending on factors such as:
Never change your dose without medical guidance. Cannabis capsules are prescription-only medicines and must be taken exactly as directed.
You can explore this in more detail on our medical cannabis pros and cons page.
Side effects vary depending on the formulation, dose, and individual sensitivity.
Medical cannabis capsules may not be suitable for:
Your Medicann clinician will assess safety and suitability as part of the prescribing pathway.
Yes. Since November 2018, specialist doctors have been allowed to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use when clinically appropriate.
CBD capsules do not cause intoxication. THC capsules may have psychoactive effects, which is why careful dosing and monitoring are essential.
Capsules usually take longer to work than inhaled forms - often one to three hours - but effects may last longer.
No. Prescription capsules are medical-grade medicines, overseen by a specialist doctor, and may contain THC, which cannot be legally purchased without a prescription.
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.
Medical cannabis capsules may be an option worth exploring if other treatments haven’t provided enough relief. Medicann offers a clear, supportive, considered pathway:
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.
