Q&A What is it . . . and why is it illegal in UK?

Q What is cannabis oil?

A Derived from the cannabis plant, the oil usually contains two active compounds, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A typical ratio of CBD to THC is 50:1, i.e. 2 per cent THC.

Q What’s it used for?

A In a medicinal capacity, it is claimed to have therapeutic properties for treating a variety of conditions including certain types of severe epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and chronic pain. Q

Is it legal?

A That depends on the THC content. Anything with a THC level over 0.3 per cent is classed as a ‘controlled substance’ under the Misuse of Drugs Act, and so illegal to possess, make or sell. There are no medical exemptions, unlike other drugs including even heroin.

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. The level of CBD is irrelevant as in its pure form it is not a controlled substance.

Q Does cannabis oil need THC in it to have a therapeutic effect?

A Good question – but there’s no clear answer right now. Most research efforts are looking at the beneficial effects of CBD, not THC. In epilepsy, an anti-epileptic called Epidiolex – containing less than 0.1 per cent THC – has shown success in clinical trials.

Q Will cannabis oil with THC be prescribed in the UK in the future?

A Not until there is official ‘trial evidence’ that oil containing THC has medical benefits. People with various conditions have found that oils containing THC work for them – while those without it, don’t. Lack of scientific trials means evidence either way is poor.