Is Marijuana Legal in Sweden?

Recreational cannabis is illegal in Sweden, which the Swedish government strictly enforces.

This includes all personal use or possession, both of which are considered criminal offenses. These acts are prohibited under the Narcotic Drugs (Punishment) Act of 1968.

Punishments include a fine or even imprisonment. The maximum prison sentence for possessing or using any illegal substance is ten years imprisonment.

Sweden has rather conservative drug laws compared to other European countries.

Medical cannabis was technically legalized in 2012, though under minimal circumstances. Only a few products are available, and a doctor must prescribe these.

What Are the Medical Marijuana Laws in Sweden?

Sweden has strict medical cannabis laws, and the Medical Products Agency highly regulates the products.

Currently, only a few medicinal cannabis products are available, including Sativex — a cannabis-based mouth spray containing THC and CBD only approved for use in people with multiple sclerosis — and Marinol, a synthetic THC pill.

These must be prescribed by a doctor and are only available after a patient has exhausted all other treatment options. Additionally, medical cannabis is generally only considered for a limited number of conditions.

Another medical cannabis product, Bediol, usually comes in oil form, and pharmacies must have a specific license to give out Bediol to patients, even if the patients already have a prescription. This medication is also only given out under “special circumstances.”

How Much Cannabis Can I Possess in Sweden with an MMJ Card?

Sweden does not use MMJ cards currently. To use medical cannabis products, you must have a doctor’s prescription. Prescriptions are extremely limited, with few patients presently using these products.

There are also limitations on when medical cannabis is prescribed; at the moment, it is usually only prescribed for conditions like multiple sclerosis or AIDS-related illnesses.

You can only possess the cannabis products prescribed, and cultivation for medical use is illegal. Possessing cannabis for medical purposes without a prescription is also prohibited.

How Do I Get Certified for Medical Cannabis in Sweden?

You must consult your doctor to get certified for medical cannabis products in Sweden. Medical cannabis products are under prescription only.

First, your doctor must determine that you have exhausted all treatment options and nothing has been suitable. Your doctor must also decide that your condition is amenable to treatment with medical cannabis.

Some claim that getting medical cannabis prescribed in Sweden can be challenging, even in more extreme circumstances. Some doctors may choose not to prescribe medical cannabis.

Is Telemedicine Allowed for Medical Cannabis Consultations in Sweden?

There is no specific guidance on using telemedicine to prescribe medical cannabis products. It is best to contact your doctor or clinic for advice on this matter.

You will likely need to establish a long-term dialogue with your doctor to discuss your health needs and specific condition(s).

This may require one or more in-person appointments or particular tests that would have to be done in person.

Are There Any Employment Laws Protecting Medical Cannabis Cardholders in Sweden?

There are no specific employment protections for that prescribed medical cannabis, as this is a relatively emerging area, and few patients are affected.

If you are concerned about how medical cannabis may impact your work, it is best to speak to your doctor or care team.

Many people currently prescribed medical cannabis in Sweden cannot work due to chronic illness or pain.

What Are the Medical Cannabis Product Testing Requirements in Sweden?

There are only a select few medical cannabis products available in Sweden. These include Sativex, Marinol, and Bediol.

These products are known internationally and have undergone rigorous safety and efficacy testing.

For instance, Sativex has undergone various human and animal studies to test side effects and efficacy.

These products are regulated in Sweden by the Medical Products Agency. All side effects and safety profiles can be found online via specific pharmaceutical producers.

Is It Legal to Grow Cannabis in Sweden?

Growing cannabis plants in Sweden for recreational or medical purposes is not legal.

According to the 1968 Narcotic Drugs (Punishment) Act, personal use, possession, manufacture, and distribution of drugs, including cannabis, is a criminal offense.

Minor drug offenses may be punishable with a fine or up to six months of imprisonment.

Where Is It Safe to Purchase Cannabis in Sweden?

Medical cannabis can only be safely obtained via prescription. While prescriptions are very limited and difficult to obtain, the products can be collected from the pharmacy at no charge if you have a prescription.

It is not safe to purchase cannabis for recreational purposes in Sweden. Personal cannabis use and possession are monitored and policed, with some areas using urine drug testing.

Additionally, recreational cannabis purchased from the illegal street trade may be of variable quality or strength.

Where Is It Safe to Consume Marijuana in Sweden?

It is not safe to consume or use recreational marijuana in Sweden. Personal use and possession are illegal, and this is strictly policed.

You could face criminal charges for using cannabis. In terms of medical cannabis products, these are generally oils and sprays. These are best used at home or on your property because non-prescription CBD oil is illegal.