Overview: A Clinical Pathway for Patients with Persistent Symptoms

At ISC-CARE, our specialist clinicians provide assessments for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and neurological conditions. Where clinically appropriate, our team may consider a range of therapeutic options, including cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs), in line with UK regulatory guidance.

We support individuals who have not responded to standard treatments and are seeking expert guidance on alternative therapies. Our consultants are GMC-registered specialists with experience in managing complex health conditions. Where appropriate, and after a full clinical assessment, patients may be considered for access to cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMP’s) in accordance with UK law and current best practice.

Please note that all decisions about treatment suitability are made on a case-by-case basis, following an in-depth clinical consultation and multidisciplinary review.

What Are Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBMPs)?

Cannabis-based medicinal products are legally available in the UK under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 (Schedule 2). These medicines may include combinations of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and are most often considered when standard treatments have not provided adequate relief.

Most CBMPs are unlicensed in the UK. As such, they can only be prescribed by a GMC specialist doctor, and only when there is a clear clinical rationale supported by evidence or experience.

Conditions Commonly Considered for CBMP Assessment

Our specialists are experienced in assessing a wide range of treatment-resistant conditions. Some of the most commonly referred conditions for which CBMPs may be considered include:

Chronic Pain

Cannabis-based medicines may be considered for people living with long-term pain that has not responded to conventional analgesics or physiotherapy. Conditions include:

• Fibromyalgia

• Neuropathic pain

• Complex regional pain syndrome

• Arthritis-related pain

• Endometriosis

Anxiety and PTSD

CBMPs may play a role in managing anxiety symptoms in certain individuals, particularly when traditional treatments have been ineffective or poorly tolerated. This includes:

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Panic Disorder

• Social Anxiety

All decisions are made with careful psychiatric input and risk consideration.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

For adults with a confirmed diagnosis of ADHD who have not benefited from or cannot tolerate licensed stimulant medications, cannabis-based therapies may be discussed as part of an individualised treatment plan.

Please note:
CBMPs are not licensed for ADHD, and such use is considered off-label and unlicensed. A specialist-led assessment is required, with full informed consent and risk documentation.

Sleep Disturbances

Chronic insomnia and sleep disruption associated with other long-term conditions may be considered where multiple licensed sleep aids have failed. This may include:

• PTSD-related insomnia

• Pain-related sleep disruption

• Sleep-onset difficulties

Neurological Conditions

Some individuals with neurological disorders may benefit from cannabis-based therapies, especially where symptoms include spasticity, seizures, or neuropathic pain. Conditions may include:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Functional neurological disorder (FND)

• Migraine

• Epilepsy (where other medications have been exhausted)

Gastrointestinal & Gynaecological Conditions

In selected cases, CBMPs may support symptom management in:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis

• Severe premenstrual syndrome or PMDD

• Menopausal symptoms with anxiety or sleep disturbance

• Endometriosis (especially with co-existing pain or anxiety)

Who Is Not Suitable?

Cannabis-based therapies are not appropriate for individuals who:

• Are under 18 (unless referred by a paediatric specialist)

• Have a personal or family history of psychosis

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Are actively using illicit substances

• Are unable to provide informed consent

Each case is carefully screened to ensure safety and compliance.

Our Assessment Process

1. Initial Screening – brief eligibility check

2. Specialist Consultation – full medical and psychosocial assessment

3. Multidisciplinary Review – where needed, for complex cases

4. Treatment Plan & Consent – if appropriate, with full explanation of risks and costs

5. Prescription – sent directly to a licensed pharmacy if issued

6. Ongoing Monitoring – symptom tracking and medication review every 4–12 weeks

We Do Not Sell or Supply Medication

ISC-CARE does not dispense or sell cannabis-based products. If a prescription is issued, it will be dispensed through a licensed UK pharmacy regulated to handle cannabis-based medicines.

Important Legal Notes

• Cannabis-based medicines cannot be advertised or promoted to the public.

• We do not guarantee treatment with CBMPs; all prescribing is subject to medical judgement.

• You must inform the DVLA if prescribed a product containing THC.

• Do not travel abroad with CBMPs unless you have explicit legal clearance from the destination country.

Book an Assessment

If you have a chronic condition that has not improved with standard treatments, and would like to explore whether cannabis-based therapies may be appropriate, please contact us for a specialist assessment.

[Book a Consultation]

info@isc-care.co.uk

Disclaimer

ISC-CARE does not endorse or promote the use of cannabis products outside of a regulated clinical setting. All treatment decisions are made by qualified professionals in accordance with UK legislation and MHRA guidelines. Patient outcomes vary.