Medical Cannabis in Poland: Increase in Prescriptions by 9,420% and Sales by 13,942%

The Polish Public Opinion Research Center (CBOS) recently revealed that 73.4% of Poles support the decriminalization of cannabis. Behind this support there is also a growing demand for medical cannabis. This is a sector that has seen significant growth since legalization in 2017.

In 2019, only 2,909 medical cannabis prescriptions were issued, but that number exploded to 276,807 in 2023, an increase of 9,420% over that period.

The amount of cannabis dispensed in pharmacies has also increased significantly, from 33.2 kg in 2019 to 4,659 kg in 2023 , an increase of 13,942%.

Factors influencing the increase in interest for medical cannabis in Poland

Such impressive numbers can be attributed to several factors. Initially, supply was limited, and many doctors were hesitant to prescribe it due to the lack of clear guidelines and the stigma associated with it. Over time, health care professionals began to recognize the medical benefits of cannabis, and new sources of prescriptions became available.

A key element was the implementation of the “e-prescription” system, which facilitates access to prescriptions, including those for medical cannabis. Patients can apply for prescriptions and, after a short online consultation, receive a code enabling them to purchase the drug at any pharmacy.

The next step forward was the creation of specialized cannabis clinics . They are run by doctors who specialize in the medical use of cannabis and are more likely to prescribe cannabis for pain, insomnia, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and sleep disorders.

The latest research shows that 47% of cannabis users in Poland receive their prescriptions in these clinics, while 32% use the “e-prescription” system. Only 13% of them consult other specialists and 7% consult traditional doctors, according to Talking Drugs.

Sources of medical cannabis prescriptions in Poland

Access to medical cannabis in Poland varies depending on the region. Pharmacies in smaller towns often have supply shortages. Patients must ensure that pharmacies have the medicine before ordering a prescription.

Deputy Minister of Health, Wojciech Konieczny, recently announced that increasing limits on the import of cannabis is being considered in order to improve its availability. However, Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna stated that “Poland is not ready to legalize cannabis” and that “the public should be better informed before such a decision is made.” There are still many challenges ahead, but the country is moving towards a more effective system for consumers.

__

(Featured image by Kamil Gliwinski via Unsplash)

DISCLAIMER: This article was written by a third party contributor and does not reflect the opinion of Born2Invest, its management, staff or its associates. Please review our disclaimer for more information.

This article may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “become,” “plan,” “will,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks as well as uncertainties, including those discussed in the following cautionary statements and elsewhere in this article and on this site. Although the Company may believe that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, the actual results that the Company may achieve may differ materially from any forward-looking statements, which reflect the opinions of the management of the Company only as of the date hereof. Additionally, please make sure to read these important disclosures.

First published in FaktyKonopne. A third-party contributor translated and adapted the articles from the originals. In case of discrepancy, the originals will prevail.

Although we made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translations, some parts may be incorrect. Born2Invest assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or ambiguities in the translations provided on this website. Any person or entity relying on translated content does so at their own risk. Born2Invest is not responsible for losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy or reliability of translated information. If you wish to report an error or inaccuracy in the translation, we encourage you to contact us.