Cannabis extract will be classed as medicinal in UK

THE UK medicines regulator is going to class a cannabis-based ingredient called cannabidiol, or CBD, as a medicine starting from 2017.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced it has “come to the opinion that products containing cannabidiol (CBD) used for medical purposes are a medicine” and is planning to regulate its use and distribution.

The other main ingredient of cannabis is THC, the part of the drug that makes a person high, but can also cause paranoia and anxiety which has not been legalised.

CBD on the other hand has been found to have a general calming effect which is why some have started using it for medicinal purposes.

“MHRA will now work with individual companies and trade bodies in relation to making sure products containing CBD, used for medical purpose, which can be classified as medicines, satisfy the legal requirements of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012” said a MHRA spokesperson.

The medicines regulator states patient safety is their primary concern and people using CBD should get in touch with their GP to answer any questions.

Some believe that by classing CBD as a medicine, the medical marijuana debate can be opened up for discussion.