Medical Cannabis Prescription in Denmark

DenmarkProgram Active

How to get a medical cannabis prescription in Denmark. Guide to the Danish pilot program, qualifying conditions, costs, and the pharmacy dispensing process.

View all European medical cannabis guides →Medical cannabis conditions →

Program Details

Average Cost

DKK 50–150/day (~€7–€20/day)

Year Established

2018

Prescription

Required

InsuranceNot Covered

Online ConsultNot Available

Pharmacy AccessAvailable

Program StatusActive

Overview

Denmark launched a four-year medical cannabis pilot program (forsøgsordningen) on January 1, 2018, which has been extended multiple times. The program allows doctors to prescribe cannabis products to patients who have not responded adequately to conventional therapies. Denmark is also a significant cannabis producer, with companies like Aurora Nordic and Little Green Pharma operating large-scale cultivation facilities.

Unlike Germany, Danish health insurance does not cover medical cannabis costs, making it relatively expensive for patients. The pilot program has faced criticism for high prices and limited product availability, prompting ongoing policy discussions about permanent legalization and potential subsidy programs.

Key Facts

•Denmark’s medical cannabis pilot program launched in 2018 and has been extended beyond its original 2021 end date.
•Medical cannabis is not covered by Danish health insurance — patients pay the full cost out of pocket.
•Denmark is one of Europe’s largest cannabis cultivation hubs, exporting to Germany and other EU markets.
•Only products specifically approved under the pilot program can be prescribed; doctors cannot prescribe arbitrary cannabis products.
•The Danish Medicines Agency (Lægemiddelstyrelsen) oversees the pilot program and maintains the list of approved products.

How to Get a Prescription: Step-by-Step

1Consult your general practitioner (praktiserende læge) or a hospital specialist. Discuss your condition and explain that conventional treatments have not provided adequate relief.

2Your doctor evaluates whether you are eligible under Denmark’s medical cannabis pilot program (forsøgsordningen med medicinsk cannabis). Documentation of failed prior treatments is required.

3If eligible, the doctor issues a prescription for an approved cannabis product from the list of authorized products in the pilot program.

4Fill the prescription at any Danish pharmacy (apotek). Products are dispensed like any other prescription medication.

5Attend regular follow-up appointments. The pilot program requires ongoing medical supervision and outcome reporting.

Qualifying Conditions

+Chronic pain unresponsive to conventional treatment

+Multiple sclerosis spasticity

+Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

+Spinal cord injury-related neuropathic pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is medical cannabis covered by Danish health insurance?+

No, medical cannabis is not covered by Danish health insurance under the current pilot program. Patients must pay the full cost, which can be DKK 1,500–4,500 per month depending on the product and dosage. There have been political discussions about introducing subsidies.

How long has Denmark’s medical cannabis pilot been running?+

The pilot program started on January 1, 2018, and was originally planned to run for four years. It has been extended multiple times and continues to operate as policymakers evaluate whether to make the program permanent.

Can any doctor prescribe medical cannabis in Denmark?+

Yes, any licensed physician in Denmark can prescribe medical cannabis under the pilot program. However, many GPs prefer to refer patients to hospital specialists, particularly for complex conditions. The prescribing doctor must document why conventional treatments have failed.

Medical Cannabis in Other European Countries

Explore medical cannabis prescription guides for other European countries with active programs.

NOK 150–300/g (~€13–€26)

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Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Cannabis laws and medical programs in Denmark are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with Denmark's official health authority and consult with a qualified health care provider before pursuing medical cannabis treatment. Cannabismarketcap does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information presented.