Understanding medical cannabis: a beginner's guide to irradiated and non-irradiated options

The range of cannabis-based medicines on offer can be slightly overwhelming, especially for new patients. While your prescribing specialist will take all the time needed to make sure you have a full understanding of your recommended treatment plan, it never hurts to do a little research on your own.

In this beginner's guide, we'll have a closer look at the difference between irradiated and non-irradiated medical cannabis flower options - and why you may be prescribed one or the other.

What is the difference between irradiated and non-irradiated medical cannabis?

Both irradiated and non-irradiated medical cannabis are types of dried medical cannabis flower (or flos). The difference lies in the treatment process that the cannabis undergoes before reaching your hands.

Non-irradiated medical cannabis

Non-irradiated medical cannabis is a natural cannabis product. While it has been 'processed' in the sense that it has been dried and then cured, it remains as close to its natural state as possible.

Is non-irradiated medical cannabis safe?

Yes, all prescribable medical cannabis options in the UK, including non-irradiated dried flower, are subject to an extremely high level of regulatory oversight.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates the quality and safety of medical cannabis products. This agency ensures that all products meet the strict standards of quality, safety, and efficacy required for medical use.

Irradiated medical cannabis

Irradiated medical cannabis is grown in exactly the same way as non-irradiated medical cannabis. The difference lies in the final processing stage, known as 'irradiation'.

What is irradiation?

Irradiation is a process that exposes the dried medical cannabis flower to ionising radiation. This reduces the chance of harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) being present in the final product.

Is irradiated medical cannabis safe?

Yes, just like non-irradiated medical cannabis, all irradiated medical cannabis products are subject to the same strict regulations and safety standards set by the MHRA. Irradiation is a widespread practice in a range of industries—including food production and medical device sterilisation—to ensure safety and quality standards are met.

Why are some patients prescribed irradiated cannabis?

Some patients, especially those with compromised immune systems (such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplants, or living with HIV/AIDS) who are particularly sensitive to potential contaminants may be prescribed irradiated medical cannabis as a precautionary measure.   

The use of ionising radiation in the final processing stage helps to eliminate any potentially harmful microorganisms that may be present in the dried flower. This ensures that patients with weakened immune systems are not at risk of contracting an infection from their medical cannabis treatment.

What are the benefits of non-irradiated cannabis?

Before we go any further, it is important to note that both irradiated and non-irradiated medical cannabis are equally effective in treating a variety of conditions, and while non-irradiated medical cannabis hasn't been exposed to ionising radiation, it is still subject to strict quality and safety regulations.

All non-irradiated options prescribed to Releaf patients are produced by licensed, reputable cannabis farms and undergo thorough testing to ensure safety and quality.

Non-irradiated cannabis offers a more natural option and may contain higher levels of the therapeutically beneficial compounds found in cannabis - that is, cannabinoids (THC, CBD) and terpenes.

If you do not have a compromised immune system, your prescribing specialist may recommend non-irradiated cannabis, as it is a safe and effective option.

Which option is right for you?

At Releaf, we have assembled a truly world-class clinical team. Our doctors are highly experienced in both conventional and cannabinoid-based medicine and have undergone extensive training to ensure they are fully equipped to guide you through your medical cannabis journey. They will work with you to determine the right treatment plan for your individual health needs.

Whether you are prescribed irradiated or non-irradiated medical cannabis will depend on a range of factors, including your medical history, current health status, and personal preferences. Your prescribing specialist will discuss these options with you - they are there to answer any and all questions you may have about your treatment plan.

The Releaf team is always here to support you throughout your medical cannabis journey. We have an extensive blog and education hub, both filled to the brim with resources and information to help you better understand medical cannabis.

Want to find out if you may be eligible for a UK medical cannabis prescription with Releaf?

Head over to our medical cannabis eligibility checker. It takes less than a minute to complete, and you'll receive an immediate response informing you of your potential eligibility for medical cannabis treatment.

Should you have more questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to our Patient Support Team at support@releaf.co.uk or call +44 (0) 20 3657 3346.