Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with millions affected by various forms of the disease. The symptoms of cancer, along with the side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. These include chronic pain, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and emotional distress.
Medical cannabis, containing compounds such as THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol), has emerged as a complementary therapy to help manage cancer symptoms and treatment-related side effects. While it is not a cure for cancer, cannabis can improve quality of life for patients by alleviating pain, nausea, and other burdensome symptoms.
THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, reducing pain, nausea, and inflammation. It also stimulates appetite, which is crucial for patients experiencing cancer-related weight loss or cachexia.
CBD offers anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety effects without the psychoactive “high” associated with THC. It may also possess anti-tumor properties, although more research is needed.
Many issues faced by people living with or beyond cancer can be assessed online, including fatigue, pain, nausea, anxiety, sleep problems, medication queries, and concerns about new or changing symptoms. Our GPs can review your situation, offer guidance, adjust medications where appropriate, and help you understand when further tests or specialist review may be needed.
Online appointments are ideal for discussing ongoing symptoms, reviewing treatment side effects, managing long-term effects of cancer therapy, arranging fit notes, and getting clear advice on next steps. We can also support you with referrals, letters, and follow-up care when appropriate.
Some symptoms — such as severe pain, sudden breathlessness, uncontrolled vomiting, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening symptoms — require prompt in-person or emergency assessment. If these occur, urgent medical attention is essential.
Our GPs provide clear, compassionate guidance through secure video consultations, helping you access safe, reliable support when you need it most. Prescriptions, fit notes, and referrals can be issued when clinically appropriate, ensuring you receive timely care alongside your existing oncology team.
A 2018 study in The Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that 65% of cancer patients using cannabis experienced significant pain relief.
Medical cannabis reduced chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in 80% of patients, according to a 2017 review in JAMA Oncology.
60% of patients reported improved appetite and reduced weight loss when using cannabis, according to a 2020 study in Cancer Medicine.
Preclinical studies suggest that cannabinoids may slow tumor growth in some cancers, but clinical evidence is limited and ongoing research is needed.
While medical cannabis offers significant benefits for cancer patients, it is essential to approach its use under medical supervision. THC can cause psychoactive effects or dizziness in some individuals, and cannabis may interact with other cancer treatments. Personalised treatment plans are critical to maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
Medical cannabis provides a valuable tool for improving the quality of life of cancer patients by addressing pain, nausea, appetite loss, and emotional distress. While it is not a standalone treatment for cancer itself, cannabis serves as an effective complement to traditional therapies, helping patients navigate the challenges of the disease and its treatments. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures safe and tailored use as part of a comprehensive cancer care plan.
Book an online GP Consultation and our doctors will guide you to the right care.
You can use the service from anywhere to speak with a UK GMC‑registered GP. Whether you’re at home, travelling or away for work, you can connect from your device. Prescriptions can be delivered to your UK address or sent to a nearby pharmacy.
Yes — you can speak to a UK‑registered doctor from abroad if you’re travelling or temporarily outside the country. Prescriptions can only be issued to UK pharmacies, so we can’t send medication overseas.
Choose a time, answer a few quick questions about your symptoms, and confirm your slot. Your doctor joins you at the scheduled time — simple, fast, and stress‑free.
Yes. Most patients are seen the same day, often within a few hours.
We offer morning, evening, and weekend appointments so you can choose a time that works for you.
Appointments usually last 10–15 minutes, giving you time to explain your symptoms and get a clear plan.
