Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal (Medical) | 2003 | Tolerated (coffeeshop system) | GP prescription + specialist pharmacy | €50–€150/month |
How to Get Medical Cannabis in Netherlands
- Speak to your GP (huisarts) about medical cannabis
- GP issues a standard prescription for Bedrocan products
- Fill at any pharmacy (apotheek) — Bedrocan products are the only licensed medical cannabis
- Follow up with your GP regularly
Qualifying Conditions
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Cancer pain
- Tourette's syndrome
- Chronic neuropathic pain
- Nausea from chemotherapy
- Glaucoma
Cost & Clinics
Any GP in the Netherlands can prescribe Bedrocan products. The Office for Medicinal Cannabis (BMC) oversees the programme. Products available through regular pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a medical cannabis programme in the Netherlands?
Yes — since 2003. Bedrocan products are available by GP prescription through regular pharmacies. This is separate from the tolerated coffeeshop system.
What is the difference between coffeeshops and medical cannabis?
Coffeeshops are tolerated retailers for adult recreational use. The medical programme provides standardised Bedrocan products via prescription, ensuring consistent potency and purity.
Which Bedrocan products are available?
Bedrocan (22% THC), Bedrobinol (13.5% THC), Bediol (6.3% THC / 8% CBD), Bedica (14% THC), and Bedrolite (CBD-dominant). Each is tested for potency, pesticides and microbiological safety.
Can tourists access medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis via prescription requires a Dutch GP and Dutch health insurance. Tourists cannot easily access the medical programme. Coffeeshops are accessible to adults but for recreational use only.