Medical Cannabis Prescription in Ireland

IrelandProgram Active

How to access medical cannabis in Ireland through the MCAP programme. Learn about the three qualifying conditions, HSE coverage, and the hospital consultant application process.

View all European medical cannabis guides →Medical cannabis conditions →

Program Details

Average Cost
Covered by HSE (free to patients)
Year Established
2019
Prescription
Required
InsuranceCovered
Online ConsultNot Available
Pharmacy AccessLimited
Program StatusActive

Overview

Ireland established the Medical Cannabis Access Programme (MCAP) in 2019, providing a formal pathway for patients with specific conditions to access cannabis-based treatments. The programme is notably restrictive, covering only three conditions: MS spasticity, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and severe epilepsy. Access requires a hospital consultant application through the HPRA.

The MCAP has been criticized for its narrow scope and bureaucratic process, which has limited the number of patients who can benefit. However, for eligible patients, the HSE covers the cost of approved cannabis products, making treatment free at the point of care. Advocacy groups continue to push for expansion of qualifying conditions and simplification of the application process.

Key Facts

How to Get a Prescription: Step-by-Step

1Be referred to a hospital consultant (specialist) for one of the three qualifying conditions. General practitioners cannot prescribe under the MCAP.
2The hospital consultant evaluates your case and determines that all other treatment options have been exhausted.
3If eligible, the consultant applies to the Medical Cannabis Access Programme (MCAP) on your behalf through the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA).
4Once approved, the consultant issues a prescription for a specific cannabis-based product. Only products approved under the MCAP can be prescribed.
5Fill the prescription at a hospital pharmacy. The HSE (Health Service Executive) covers the cost of approved products under the programme.

Qualifying Conditions

+Spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis
+Intractable nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy
+Severe treatment-resistant epilepsy

Frequently Asked Questions

How many conditions qualify for medical cannabis in Ireland?+
Only three conditions currently qualify under the MCAP: spasticity from multiple sclerosis, intractable nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, and severe treatment-resistant epilepsy. Advocates are lobbying for chronic pain and other conditions to be added.
Is medical cannabis free in Ireland?+
Yes, for patients approved under the MCAP, the HSE covers the cost of prescribed cannabis-based products. There is no out-of-pocket expense for eligible patients.
Can my GP prescribe medical cannabis in Ireland?+
No, only hospital consultants can prescribe under the MCAP. Your GP can refer you to an appropriate hospital specialist, but the prescription and HPRA application must come from the consultant.

Medical Cannabis in Other European Countries

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

United Kingdom
Est. 2018
£150–£400/month
Germany
Est. 2017
€5–€15/g
Denmark
Est. 2018
DKK 50–150/day (~€7–€20/day)
France
Est. 2021
Free (covered under the experiment)
Netherlands
Est. 2003
€6–€12/g

Continue Exploring

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