Releaf Medical Cannabis for ADHD: A Patient’s Complete Guide (2025)
You know the struggle. You call the pharmacy for your Elvanse or Methylphenidate refill, only to hear the same frustrating news: “We are out of stock.”
The ongoing ADHD medication shortage in the UK has left thousands of patients in limbo. Others deal with the harsh “crash” of stimulants, anxiety spikes, or sleep issues that make the treatment feel almost as difficult as the condition itself.
This has led many to ask a critical question: Is there a legal, effective alternative?
Since November 2018, specialist doctors in the UK have been legally able to prescribe cannabis for medical use. Releaf has emerged as one of the most prominent clinics in this space, offering a modern, tech-led approach to private care.
But is Releaf medical cannabis for ADHD right for you? This guide breaks down the eligibility criteria, the costs, the “Releaf+” card, and the science behind the treatment.
Is Medical Cannabis Legal for ADHD in the UK?
Let’s answer the most common question first: Yes.
On November 1, 2018, the UK government rescheduled cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs). This legislative change moved cannabis from Schedule 1 (no medicinal value) to Schedule 2, allowing it to be prescribed by specialist consultants.
The 2018 Law Change Explained
You cannot get this prescription from your local GP. The law specifically restricts prescribing powers to doctors listed on the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register.
Releaf operates entirely within this legal framework. They are a fully regulated provider, registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This means they are held to the same safety and care standards as any private hospital or clinic in the UK.
Why You Can’t Get This on the NHS
While legal, NHS prescriptions for ADHD are virtually non-existent. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines (NG144) act as a gatekeeper, generally reserving NHS cannabis prescriptions for rare forms of epilepsy or MS.
For ADHD patients, private clinics like Releaf are currently the only viable route to access legal, regulated medication.
Releaf Eligibility: Who Actually Qualifies?
Releaf is not a recreational dispensary. It is a medical clinic. You cannot simply sign up and buy products; you must meet strict medical criteria.
The “Two-Treatment” Rule
To qualify for a prescription, you generally must satisfy the “Two-Treatment Rule.”
This means you must have tried at least two licensed treatments for your condition that either:
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Failed to work effectively.
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Caused intolerable side effects (e.g., severe anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite).
For ADHD, these licensed treatments usually include medications like Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) or Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) counts as one of these treatments.
Pro-Tip: Before applying, download the NHS App and request your Summary of Care Record (SCR). You will need to upload this document to prove your medical history. Without it, the clinic cannot legally treat you.
Exclusion Criteria
Safety is the priority. You may be ineligible if you have:
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A history of psychosis or schizophrenia.
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Severe heart conditions.
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A history of substance misuse (though this is assessed on a case-by-case basis).
The Releaf Process: From Survey to Prescription
Releaf differentiates itself with a seamless, tech-heavy user experience. Here is a walkthrough of what the process actually looks like.
Step 1: The Eligibility Checker & Booking
You start by filling out a 30-second form on their website. If you pass the initial screen, you book a consultation.
Step 2: The Specialist Consultation
This is a video call, usually lasting 20-30 minutes. Unlike a rushed GP appointment, these consultants are specialists in psychiatry.
Experience Note: Patients often report that these sessions feel less like an interrogation and more like a collaborative discussion. The doctor will ask about your specific ADHD symptoms—do you struggle more with focus (inattention) or restlessness (hyperactivity)? This helps them tailor the strain type to your needs.
Step 3: The MDT (Multidisciplinary Team) Meeting
After your call, you don’t get a prescription immediately. Your case goes to an MDT Panel.
This is a “Black Box” for many patients, but it’s a crucial safety step. A group of pharmacists, clinicians, and specialists review your file to ensure the prescription is safe and appropriate. This usually happens within a few days of your consultation.
Step 4: Receiving Your Meds & The Starter Kit
Once approved, you receive a digital invoice. After payment, the medication is dispatched via a secure courier (usually DPD).
Releaf is famous for its “Starter Kit.” While other clinics just send a pot of medication, Releaf provides a premium unboxing experience that often includes a high-quality grinder and, crucially, your Releaf Medical Cannabis Card.
This card helps you carry your medication legally and serves as immediate proof of your patient status if stopped by police.
Releaf Costs & The “Releaf+” Subscription Model
One of the main criticisms of private cannabis clinics is hidden pricing. Releaf uses a unique subscription model called Releaf+ to simplify costs, though they also offer pay-as-you-go options.
Pay-As-You-Go vs. Subscription
| Feature | Pay-As-You-Go | Releaf+ Subscription |
| Initial Consultation | £99.99 | Included |
| Follow-up Consults | £99.99 each | Included |
| Repeat Prescription Fee | £19.99 | Free |
| Medical Cannabis Card | Not Included | Included |
| Monthly Cost | £0 (Pay per visit) | ~£39.99 / month |
Note: Prices are subject to change. Always check the official site for the latest fees.
If you are on a stable treatment plan requiring quarterly check-ups, the subscription model often works out cheaper than paying £99 for every consultation.
Medication Prices (Flower & Oil)
The consultation fees do not include the medication itself.
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Flower: Prices generally start around £7.99 per gram, going up to £12+ for premium strains.
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Oils: Usually range from £50 to £150 per bottle, depending on strength (THC/CBD ratio).
The Science: How Cannabis Treats ADHD Symptoms
Why would cannabis help with a dopamine-deficiency disorder like ADHD?
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) & Dopamine
ADHD is largely linked to low levels of dopamine in the brain. Standard meds work by forcing dopamine levels up.
Cannabis works differently. It interacts with your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Research suggests that phytocannabinoids (THC and CBD) can help regulate the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and GABA.
This can provide a “calm focus.” Unlike the sharp, forced concentration of stimulants, many patients describe the effect of medical cannabis as “quieting the noise” in their head, allowing them to focus on one task at a time.
[PubMed Central – Cannabinoids and ADHD Studies]
Sativa vs. Indica for ADHD
Your doctor will likely prescribe specific strains based on your symptoms:
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Sativa-dominant strains: Often prescribed for daytime use to aid focus, energy, and executive function.
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Indica-dominant strains: Often prescribed for evening use to shut down a racing mind and improve sleep hygiene.
Real Patient Reviews: Is Releaf Worth It?
When analyzing patient sentiment across Trustpilot and Reddit, clear patterns emerge regarding Releaf medical cannabis for ADHD.
The Pros
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Speed: Patients praise the speed from booking to delivery.
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The App: The patient portal makes requesting repeats and tracking orders incredibly easy compared to email-based clinics.
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Legal Security: The physical ID card provides massive peace of mind for patients worried about legality.
The Cons
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Price: Releaf is not the cheapest clinic on the market. Budget clinics exist, but they often lack the app ecosystem and customer service speed.
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Subscription Commitment: Some patients prefer not to be tied to a monthly fee.
FAQs
Can I drive if I have a medical cannabis prescription for ADHD?
Yes, but with a major caveat. You must not be impaired. Having a prescription offers you a “medical defense” under the law if you are over the THC limit, provided you are not driving dangerously. Always wait until the effects have worn off before driving.
Is Releaf a legitimate company?
Yes. Releaf is a CQC-registered healthcare provider and its doctors are GMC-registered specialists.
Will medical cannabis show up on a workplace drug test?
Yes, it will test positive for THC. However, under the Equality Act 2010, employers should make reasonable adjustments for a prescribed medication. You should disclose this to your HR department or Occupational Health team before being tested.
Can I get medical cannabis for ADHD without a diagnosis?
No. You need a formal diagnosis and a history of previous treatments. Releaf is not a diagnostic service; they treat existing conditions.
What happens if the police stop me with my medication?
You should show them your medication in its original packaging (with your name on the pharmacy label) and your Releaf Medical Cannabis Card. This proves legal possession.
Does private medical insurance cover Releaf costs?
Generally, no. Most UK insurers do not yet cover medical cannabis prescriptions.
How long does the Releaf approval process take?
It typically takes 5–10 days from your initial consultation to receiving your medication, depending on MDT schedules and stock levels.
Conclusion
The landscape of ADHD treatment in the UK is shifting. For those who have been failed by shortages or side effects of traditional stimulants, Releaf offers a legitimate, professional, and safe pathway to alternative care.
While the costs are higher than NHS treatment, the value lies in the access, the legal protection of the Releaf+ card, and the consistent supply chain.
If you are struggling with your current treatment plan, you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Ready to find out if you qualify?
[Check your eligibility on the Releaf website today] and take the first step toward a managed, legal treatment plan.
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