What does “Schedule 2” mean?

The Misuse of Drugs Regulations schedule containing controlled drugs with recognised medical uses and strict handling requirements.

Schedule 2 in plain English

The Misuse of Drugs Regulations schedule containing controlled drugs with recognised medical uses and strict handling requirements.

Cannabis-based products for medicinal use were moved into Schedule 2 on 1 November 2018, which is what made specialist prescribing possible.

Schedule 2 status brings requirements on prescription writing, record keeping, storage and destruction, and a 28-day validity limit on prescriptions.

Frequently asked questions

What does schedule 2 mean?

The Misuse of Drugs Regulations schedule containing controlled drugs with recognised medical uses and strict handling requirements.

Sources and further reading

Every factual statement on this page is drawn from the following public sources. Links open in a new tab and are not affiliated with Flora House.

  1. NICE guideline NG144: Cannabis-based medicinal products
  2. NHS: Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils)
  3. MHRA: The supply, manufacture, importation and distribution of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use

Patient guide · Written by the Flora House editorial team · Last reviewed: 8 September 2026