Poland's Medicinal Cannabis Boom: Prescriptions Up 9,420%, Dispensation Up 13,942% In Just 4 Years

By Lucía Tedesco via El Planteo

The Polish Public Opinion Research Center (CBOS) recently revealed that 73.4% of Poles support the decriminalization of cannabis.

This growing support is accompanied by a significant rise in the demand for medicinal cannabis, a sector that has experienced remarkable growth since favorable policies were implemented in 2017.

In 2019, only 2,909 cannabis prescriptions were issued, but this number skyrocketed to 276,807 in 2023, marking a 9,420% increase over that period.

Number of medical cannabis prescriptions in Poland

Medicinal Cannabis In Poland

The amount dispensed in pharmacies also surged, from 33.2 kg in 2019 to 4,659 kg in 2023, reflecting a 13,942% increase.

Medical cannabis dispensed in Poland in kilograms

Factors Driving Cannabis Change In Poland

Several factors contribute to these staggering numbers. Initially, supply was limited, and many doctors were hesitant to prescribe cannabis due to a lack of clear guidelines and the associated stigma. However, over time, healthcare professionals have become more familiar with the medical benefits of cannabis, and new prescription sources have emerged.

A key development was the implementation of the ‘e-recepta’ system, an online platform that simplifies access to medical prescriptions, including medicinal cannabis. Patients can request prescriptions and, after a brief virtual consultation, receive a code that allows them to purchase the medication at any pharmacy.

Another advancement was the emergence of specialized cannabis clinics known as Klinika Konopna. These clinics are run by doctors who specialize in medicinal cannabis and are more likely to prescribe cannabis for conditions such as Parkinson's, PTSD, anxiety and sleep disorders.

A recent study found that 47% of cannabis users in Poland obtain their prescriptions from these clinics, while 32% use the ‘e-recepta’ system. Only 13% turn to other specialists, and 7% to traditional doctors, according to Talking Drugs.

Access To Medicinal Cannabis in Poland

Access to medicinal cannabis in Poland varies by region. In small-town pharmacies, stock can be limited. Patients must plan carefully to ensure pharmacies have the medication available before requesting a prescription.

Deputy Health Minister Wojciech Konieczny recently announced plans to consider increasing the volume of imported cannabis to improve access. However, Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna stated, “Poland is not ready for cannabis legalization,” emphasizing the need for better education before such a step can be taken. Despite these challenges, Poland is on its way to establishing an effective system for medicinal cannabis users.

This article is from an external unpaid contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Cover image: AI