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Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.
As more and more people explore this alternative option to traditional treatments, many are left wondering if there’s a correlation between medical cannabis and psychoactive effects. In other words, does medical cannabis make you feel high?
Below we’ll be exploring how medical cannabis differs from recreational use, and what you can expect when prescribed by a trusted clinician.
Does Medical Cannabis Make You Feel High?
Everybody knows that stereotypically, when people use cannabis recreationally, it’s usually to experience that ‘high’ feeling it’s known for. But that’s not the intended use of medical cannabis.
Medical cannabis is prescribed with a minimal risk of experiencing a ‘high’. So, theoretically, if you’re following the advice and guidance of your caring Alternaleaf clinician, you should avoid feeling ‘high’. And, although medical cannabis does contain THC - which in higher doses may produce psychoactive effects - it’s controlled and monitored.
But let’s rewind a bit, and explore some background around the cannabis plant itself.
Understanding the Role of THC and CBD in Medical Cannabis
THC and CBD are two of over 100 cannabinoids that can be found in the cannabis plant. These active compounds can cause effects throughout the body. The main difference between THC and CBD is that THC is psychoactive and can produce a ‘high’, while CBD is non-psychoactive, and doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
But did you know, the two of these cannabinoids, along with a combination of other active compounds like terpenes (the part of any plant that produces the smell) and flavonoids, can sometimes work together to produce better effects. This is due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
And that’s why your medical cannabis prescription is likely to contain a combination of CBD and THC - because it’s potentially much more effective. So, instead of looking at CBD vs THC in medical cannabis, you should think of it more as CBD and THC in medical cannabis.
Can You Get Medical Cannabis That Doesn’t Make You High?
Of course! That’s the benefit of seeking the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf. We prescribe for 50+ conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression and ADHD. We offer expert guidance throughout your medical cannabis journey to ensure safe and effective use. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.
Remember what we said about the entourage effect? Balanced THC:CBD products prescribed by professionals are designed to relieve symptoms without impairment.
Even when high THC products are prescribed by a licensed clinic, they will always be prescribed in a way that will avoid impairment, while targeting your symptoms. Your clinician will work with you to monitor your experience and make sure that you are not experiencing any adverse side effects.
Alternatively, you can try CBD products, like oils and gummies. Because these products are non-psychoactive, you can buy them over-the-counter in supermarkets and high street shops - no prescription needed! And because there’s little to no trace of THC in these products, you won’t experience a high.
But, it’s important to keep in mind that these aren't strictly monitored, and can be unregulated. You may not always be able to trust that the contents are reliable. That’s why it may be better to seek the help of a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf for a medical cannabis prescription. Or, purchase CBD products from Alternaleaf’s Pharmacy, Montu Pharmacy. That way, you can order them without a prescription, but still trust the source you’re purchasing from.
Why the Effects of Medical Cannabis Are Different From Recreational Use
Cannabis that is purchased off the street and used recreationally is unregulated. You don’t know where it’s come from, what it contains, or how it will affect you. Each time you purchase could result in different effects after consumption.
Medical cannabis on the other hand is not only legal, but much safer. It’s dosage-controlled, lab-tested, and prescribed based on your condition. Not only that, but you have expert clinicians and a support on hand to guide you every step of the way.
How UK Clinics Like Alternaleaf Minimise the Risk of Feeling ‘High’
When you become a patient of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf, your clinician will work with you to carefully select a strain, form, THC/CBD ratio, and dosing schedule that suits you and your needs. So, you can continue to function day-to-day and stay safe.
The ‘high’ feeling cannabis can be associated with is much more controlled with medical cannabis due to this dosage guidance from your clinician. Ultimately, they know what’s best, but will take your thoughts and opinions into account and accommodate them where possible.
Can You Build Tolerance to the Psychoactive Effects of THC?
It is possible that some patients may initially feel mild psychoactivity from strains that are maybe a little higher in THC than their body is used to. This is especially true if you’re consuming more than your clinician recommends or if you’re brand new to cannabis. That’s why we always recommend you start low and go slow, particularly for those who are new to medical cannabis or trying a new strain. Your caring Alternaleaf clinician will provide guidance on this, to ensure your medication is effective, yet not too harsh. Essentially, they’ll help you find the right balance for you and your symptoms, so instead of feeling high, you’ll feel relief.
Keep in mind, some people may develop more tolerance to medical cannabis over time. This may be reassuring to someone who maybe didn’t have a good experience their first time trying medical cannabis. But remember to lean on your clinician - they’re there to help you!
What to Do If You Feel ‘High’ from Medical Cannabis
Every medication comes with potential side effects, and medical cannabis is no different. However, most serious side effects are uncommon and can vary depending on personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, as well as consumption method, and THC and CBD content. Don’t worry too much, and if you’re ever concerned speak to your clinician. But medical cannabis is generally safe when prescribed.
Remember that start low and go slow method we mentioned above? Well, doing this can actually help minimise risks. But, some potential side effects you might want to keep in mind anyway include:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
Keep in mind that medical cannabis could potentially interact with other medications. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to speak to your clinician.
Summary
When prescribed by a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf, medical cannabis has the potential to provide some symptom relief for over 50 conditions, without causing the ‘high’ commonly linked to recreational use. Through careful dosing, expert guidance, and balanced THC:CBD formulations, patients can manage a wide range of conditions safely and effectively.
The best thing to do is speak to your clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.