UK Reviewing Medicinal Cannabis: In the United Kingdom, the use of medicinal marijuana is under review. Many in the UK have been calling for change, so this week's announcement has thrilled many. Unfortunately, however, this decision was made due to the recent cases involving children with epilepsy being denied access to cannabis products, such as cannabis oil, to help prevent and/or control seizures.
UK Reviewing Medicinal Cannabis
The two cases that really prompted the decision of the UK to consider the use of medicinal marijuana are those of Alfie Dingley and Billy Caldwell. According to Sajid Javid, Home Secretary, it was these two cases that made him realize that the use of medicinal marijuana needs to be reviewed.
Reportedly, the review will be conducted in two parts. First, there will be an expert panel in which individuals will look over the use of cannabis for medical purposes, outlining which cannabis-based medicines actually offer real medical benefits.
Second, according to Javid, after the assessment of these particular products, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs will come in and decide whether changes need to be made in terms of product classification.
Is all Cannabis Under Review?
This is likely a common question going around in the UK this week. And the answer is no. Mr. Javid reiterated that answer, stating that the laws currently existing on the recreational use of marijuana will not be changed. In simplest terms, cannabis will remain banned for recreational use in the United Kingdom.
The Kids that Ignited Change
Though the review has yet to commence, the UK is now aware that both children need these products to live with their epilepsy. As a result, both Alfie (6) and Billy (12) have been granted a license to receive cannabis-based products and drugs. Billy received his last week, and Alfie (who is from Kenilworth, Warwickshire) is being issued one, according to Javid.
UK Reviewing Medicinal Cannabis: The Takeaway
Even though recreational cannabis use will remain banned in the UK - which is the opposite of what might be happening in Canada - it will still be a very monumental moment if the laws regarding the use of medicinal cannabis are changed in the UK.
Check back in later this week to see if more has been announced.
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