UK Medical Cannabis Patient Numbers Hit 50,000 Milestone
The number of patients holding active medical cannabis prescriptions in the United Kingdom has surpassed 50,000, according to figures compiled by the Medical Cannabis Registry. This milestone, reached in May 2026, reflects sustained year-on-year growth since medical cannabis was legalised for prescription in November 2018, driven by expanding clinic networks and growing awareness among both patients and clinicians.
UK Medical Cannabis Prescriptions Cross 50,000 Patient Mark
The UK medical cannabis sector has reached a landmark milestone, with the total number of patients holding active prescriptions for cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) surpassing 50,000. The figure, confirmed by the Medical Cannabis Registry and cross-referenced with prescribing data from major clinic networks, represents a significant acceleration from the fewer than 10,000 patients recorded in 2021.
Growth Trajectory
Since medical cannabis was legalised for prescription in England, Scotland, and Wales in November 2018, patient numbers have grown steadily. The first two years saw slow uptake due to prescriber hesitancy, limited product availability, and high costs. From 2021 onwards, the market accelerated as established clinic networks expanded, telemedicine consultations became standard, and product prices began to fall as competition increased among licensed suppliers.
By 2023, an estimated 20,000 patients held active prescriptions. The doubling to 50,000 within approximately three years reflects both increased demand and improved accessibility.
Who Is Prescribing and for What
Chronic pain remains the dominant indication, accounting for approximately 64% of all active prescriptions. Mental health conditions including PTSD, anxiety, and depression account for a further 18%, while neurological conditions (epilepsy, MS spasticity) represent around 12%. The remainder covers conditions including oncology-related nausea, Tourette syndrome, and inflammatory conditions.
The majority of prescriptions — around 94% — are issued through private specialist clinics rather than the NHS, reflecting ongoing barriers to NHS access despite regulatory permission since 2018.
What Patients Should Know
For those considering a medical cannabis prescription, the growing patient population has translated into more clinic options and, in many cases, lower consultation and product costs. Comparing clinic fees, prescription costs, and available products before committing to a provider can result in meaningful savings. The UK expanding patient base also supports ongoing clinical research, which should continue to strengthen the evidence base for future NHS access.
