Medical Cannabis Prescription in Finland

FinlandProgram Active

How to get medical cannabis in Finland through the Fimea special permit system. Guide to qualifying conditions, costs, and the application process.

View all European medical cannabis guides →Medical cannabis conditions →

Program Details

Average Cost

€15–€25/g

Year Established

2008

Prescription

Required

InsuranceNot Covered

Online ConsultNot Available

Pharmacy AccessAvailable

Program StatusActive

Overview

Finland has allowed medical cannabis access through special permits since 2008, though the program is highly restrictive. Each prescription requires an individual special permit (erityislupa) from Fimea (Finnish Medicines Agency), making the process cumbersome for both doctors and patients. The approved product Sativex is available for MS spasticity, but access to other cannabis products requires the special permit route.

Finland’s medical cannabis program has a relatively small number of patients compared to other Nordic countries. Costs are high, insurance does not cover medical cannabis, and the special permit process can take several weeks. However, the system ensures careful medical oversight and quality control for all prescribed products.

Key Facts

•Medical cannabis access requires a special permit (erityislupa) from Fimea for each patient and product.
•Sativex is the only cannabis medicine with standard marketing authorization in Finland.
•Medical cannabis is not covered by Kela — patients pay the full cost out of pocket.
•Prices are among the highest in Europe at €15–€25 per gram.
•The special permit process can take 2–4 weeks from application to dispensing.

How to Get a Prescription: Step-by-Step

1Consult your treating physician or specialist. Any licensed doctor can apply for a special permit, though specialists are preferred.

2The physician documents your condition and confirms that standard treatments have been exhausted. A detailed medical justification is required.

3The doctor applies for a special permit (erityislupa) from Fimea (Finnish Medicines Agency) to prescribe a cannabis-based product for your specific case.

4Once Fimea grants the special permit, the doctor writes a prescription for the approved product.

5Fill the prescription at a pharmacy. Patients pay the full cost as medical cannabis is not covered by Kela (social insurance).

Qualifying Conditions

+Chronic pain (when other treatments have failed)

+Multiple sclerosis spasticity

+Chemotherapy-induced nausea

+Neurological conditions with spasticity

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a medical cannabis special permit in Finland?+

Your doctor must apply to Fimea (Finnish Medicines Agency) for a special permit (erityislupa). The application must include your medical history, documentation of failed conventional treatments, and a justification for why cannabis is appropriate. Fimea reviews each application individually.

Is Sativex available in Finland?+

Yes, Sativex (nabiximols) has marketing authorization in Finland for the treatment of MS-related spasticity. It can be prescribed through the standard prescription process without a special permit.

How much does medical cannabis cost in Finland?+

Prices range from €15 to €25 per gram, making Finland one of the more expensive markets in Europe. There is no insurance coverage, so patients must pay the full cost.

Medical Cannabis in Other European Countries

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

Norway

Est. 2016

NOK 150–300/g (~€13–€26)

Denmark

Est. 2018

DKK 50–150/day (~€7–€20/day)

Continue Exploring

All Countries

European medical index

US Medical Cards

State-by-state guides

Medical Cannabis

Conditions & treatments

Legalization Tracker

Laws worldwide

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 Finland are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with Finland'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.