Am I allowed to use medical cannabis in Norway?
Only on prescription — medical cannabis is allowed through two routes, but not for free use. One is approved medicines such as Sativex (MS spasms) and Epidyolex (severe epilepsy), which can be prescribed. The other is a special exemption from the Medical Products Agency (DMP) for unregistered cannabis products, where the doctor applies. It is a last resort: you must first have tried approved alternatives without sufficient effect. Ordinary (recreational) cannabis is still illegal, and you cannot grow cannabis yourself, not even with a prescription. Exemption products are usually paid privately.
📋 The rules
- Allowed only on prescription, not for free use
- Approved medicines such as Sativex and Epidyolex
- Or a special exemption from DMP where the doctor applies
- It is a last resort when other treatment fails
- You cannot grow cannabis yourself
🔓 Exceptions
- MS and severe epilepsy patients can get approved medicines on hospital prescription
- A specialist can start treatment for chronic pain when standard treatment has failed
- Hospitals can initiate and administer in defined cases
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Cannabis outside the medical route is illegal under the Medicines Act and Penal Code. Possession, use and especially home cultivation are punishable by a fine or prison depending on quantity.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Can I use medical cannabis?
Only on prescription, either as an approved medicine such as Sativex, or via a special exemption from DMP. It is a last resort.
Which approved medicines are there?
Sativex for MS spasms and Epidyolex for severe epilepsy, which can be prescribed.
What is a special exemption?
A scheme where the doctor applies to DMP to use an unregistered cannabis product when approved alternatives have not worked.
Can I grow cannabis for my own medical use?
No. You cannot grow cannabis yourself, not even with a prescription. Home cultivation is punishable.
Does the state cover the cost?
Exemption products are usually paid privately. Sativex and Epidyolex can be covered on hospital prescription.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
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