Medical cannabis: effects, application & legal situation

Medical cannabis is no longer a marginal phenomenon - more and more patients are turning to it when conventional medication is not enough. However, the path to a prescription is often rockier than expected, the costs are high and there are legal pitfalls when driving.

How do you get a prescription? What types are available and how do they work? Does health insurance pay or are you stuck with the costs? You'll get clear answers here - without technical jargon, but direct, understandable and to the point.

What is medicinal cannabis? 🌿💊

Imagine you've been struggling with chronic pain for years. Pills hardly help at all or they upset your stomach. Your doctor shrugs his shoulders and you ask yourself: Do I just have to put up with it now? Then you hear about medicinal cannabis - a plant that has been used as a remedy for centuries, but is still polarising. Is it really an alternative or just hype?

Not all cannabis is the same

Many people think of cannabis as a stoner slumped on the couch with a bag in his hand. But that's a pretty one-sided view. Medical cannabis has as much to do with recreational use as red wine has to do with cough syrup - both come from the same basic substance, but one is strictly controlled while the other is intended for intoxication.

When you buy cannabis from a pharmacy, you get a carefully tested product with a fixed THC and CBD content. No extenders, no unknown by-products, no surprises. This is important, because if you want to treat a disease, you need reliability - not the risk that one batch will work differently from the previous one.

THC vs CBD - the two main players

Cannabis contains over 100 active ingredients, but the show is dominated by two clear stars:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) - the stuff that gets you high. In medicine, however, it's not about the high, but about relieving pain, relieving cramps or increasing appetite (which helps cancer patients enormously, for example).
• CBD (cannabidiol) - the calm counterpart. No high, but anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic and muscle-relaxing. Many patients with epilepsy, anxiety disorders or chronic inflammation swear by it.

Depending on which complaints are to be treated, different mixtures are used. High THC content? Perfect for severe pain. More CBD? Better for inflammation and nervousness

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How legal is medicinal cannabis in Germany? 🚦

Medical cannabis has been legal under certain conditions since 2017. Sounds good, right? Well, in reality it's a little more complicated.

A prescription is only available if the doctor can prove that other medication does not help sufficiently. And even then, the health insurance company often has to give its approval - which in practice means weeks or months of paperwork. Many patients report that they have to submit countless applications, file objections and deal with their insurance company before they finally receive authorisation.

And even when the prescription arrives? Then the next stress begins. Supply bottlenecks, overstretched pharmacies, high prices. Anyone who is prescribed medicinal cannabis has to be patient - and often dig deep into their pockets if the health insurance doesn't pay.

But despite this, demand is increasing. More and more doctors are recognising that cannabis can be a real alternative. More and more patients are finally gaining access to a treatment that helps them. And even if the road to this is still rocky - things are moving.

Prescription & Purchase: How to get medical cannabis? 🏥📄

So, you've heard that cannabis can help - maybe with chronic pain, maybe with another illness that's been bothering you for far too long. The usual medication? Either didn't work or left you plagued with side effects. Now you're asking yourself: How do I get a prescription? And why does everyone act like this is the secret formula for Coca-Cola?

Well, welcome to the reality of the German healthcare system. Cannabis has been authorised as a medicine since 2017, but that doesn't mean you can get it just like that.

Which doctor can prescribe cannabis for me?

Theoretically, any doctor in private practice (except dentists and vets - if your dog has back pain, this won't help him, unfortunately). In practice, it looks different.

Many doctors simply have no experience with cannabis or are sceptical about it. Some are afraid of discussions with health insurance companies, others still think that cannabis is only for stoners. There are even doctors who admit: "I would prescribe it for you, but I don't know anything about it." Great, right?

The good news is that there are doctors who specialise in this. Sometimes you can find them via recommendations, sometimes via special platforms that focus on cannabis patients. If you're really convinced, you shouldn't be put off by the first "no".

What requirements do I need to fulfil?

Cannabis is not just given to you because you want to sleep better or be a little more relaxed. It is mainly prescribed if you have a serious illness and other medications have not helped enough.

• You have already tried umpteen painkillers, which either did nothing or knocked you out completely
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• Your pain is chronic - in other words, it has been with you for a long time and won't just go away
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• Your doctor can prove that cannabis is a useful therapy for you

Welcome (i.e. from the health insurance company, not from you) are, for example:

• Chronic pain (back, nerves, migraines - anything that is permanently annoying)
• Multiple sclerosis (spasms, cramps - cannabis can help relax muscles)
• Epilepsy (CBD can reduce seizures)
• Cancer (nausea, loss of appetite due to chemo)

What many people don't know: Mental illnesses such as PTSD or depression can also be a reason. Officially, this is not yet often done, but there are cases where doctors prescribe cannabis for this purpose.

Where can I get medicinal cannabis? 🌿🏪

Now it's getting exciting: you've got your prescription - and now what? Unfortunately, that doesn't mean you can just march into the pharmacy and pick up your cannabis.

The reality is more like this:

• "We don't have it. Maybe next week." (Welcome to the life of a cannabis patient.)
• "This strain is not available at the moment." (This can go on for months.)
• "We'll order it, but it may take a while."

Many pharmacies don't stock cannabis at all because the bureaucratic hassle annoys them. The best strategy? Call ahead, ask which strains are available and, if necessary, visit several pharmacies.

And online? Yes, there are pharmacies that ship cannabis, but only with a prescription! Anyone who wants to buy "medical cannabis without a prescription" online is not only operating in a legal grey area, but also runs the risk of getting low-quality stuff.

What does it cost? And does health insurance pay? 💰

Here comes the real shock: Medical cannabis is expensive.

• A gram costs between 10 and 25 euros in the pharmacy.
• Many patients need 5 to 30 grams per month.
• This can quickly add up to 300 to 600 euros - or more.

Will your health insurance cover it? Well... if they want to. In theory, the insurance companies have to cover the costs if your doctor can prove that other medication won't help. In practice, they reject many applications - just like that. Then you have to: Appeal, get an expert opinion, endless paperwork.

And that's where many fail. Not because they don't have a right to cannabis, but because they simply don't have the energy to argue with their health insurance company. Anyone who gets involved needs patience - and nerves of steel.

Conclusion: Is it worth all the effort?

Yes - but only if you're really convinced. If cannabis is a way for you to improve your quality of life, then it's worth sticking with it. It can take time, it can be frustrating, but many patients end up saying: "It was worth it."

But if you thought it was as easy as getting a prescription for ibuprofen - well, welcome to the German healthcare system.

Medical cannabis strains: Which ones are there? 🌿🔍

All right, you have your prescription in hand and head to the pharmacy. But instead of simply pushing a jar of green over the counter, the pharmacist suddenly asks: "Which variety would you like?"

Ah... yes. Good question.

Many people think cannabis is cannabis - but there are actually dozens of different strains that vary in effects, flavour and composition. The wrong choice can mean that you're either too tired to get through the day or so awake that you start redecorating your flat at three in the morning.

So that doesn't happen to you, here's a little crash course in cannabis strains.

Indica, sativa or hybrid - what does that mean?

Cannabis is roughly divided into three categories:

• Indica 🌙 - This is the strain that relaxes you. Perfect for the evening or when you're in pain and just want to wind down. Indica strains are often highly sleep-inducing, which is why they are often used for sleep disorders.
Sativa ☀️ - The opposite of indica: sativa makes you alert, focussed and can lift your mood. Ideal for the day if you want to be productive or use cannabis for depression or chronic fatigue. Hybrid 🔄 - The mix of both worlds. Some hybrids are more "indica-dominant" (more relaxing), others "sativa-dominant" (more energising).

But beware: Not every indica makes you tired, not every sativa gets you high. The exact effects depend on the strain in question - and on how your body reacts to it.

Which strains are available in Germany? 🇩🇪

A number of medicinal cannabis strains are now authorised in Germany. Here are a few of the best known:

• Bedrocan 🌿 (sativa, high THC content) - Often used for chronic pain and ADHD.
• Bedica 🌿 (Indica, high THC content) - Ideal for evenings when you need to sleep or relax.
• Bediol 🌿 (hybrid, high CBD, low THC) - Good for inflammation and mild pain, doesn't get you high.
• Tilray THC 25 🌿 (hybrid, 25% THC) - One of the strongest strains available on prescription, used for severe pain and nausea.
• Pedanios 22/1 🌿 (indica-dominant hybrid, high THC, low CBD) - Popular for pain, but can also make you sleepy
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These are just a few examples - there are now over 50 different strains available on prescription. Which one is right for you depends on your condition and your individual tolerance.

How do I find the right variety for me

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It can take a while to find the perfect strain, especially at the beginning. The best way to go about it is this:

1. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist 🏥 - they can recommend which strain suits your diagnosis.
2. Start with a mild strain 🌱 - Especially if you've never used cannabis before, it's better to start with a strain that isn't "full blast" right away.
3. Pay attention to the dosage ⚖️ - Start with small amounts and increase slowly until you find the best effects for you
4. Keep a cannabis diary 📖 - It may sound strange, but it helps immensely. Write down which strain you took, how you felt and whether there were any side effects. This will help you find out more quickly what works for you
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5. Be patient ⏳ - Every body reacts differently. Some patients need a few weeks to find the right strain.

Not all cannabis is the same

The right strain can determine whether you finally get through the day pain-free and relaxed - or whether you feel like you've had three too many espressos. That's why it's worth familiarising yourself with the different varieties and finding out which one works best for you.

Because in the end, cannabis isn't a miracle cure - but if you use it right, it can come pretty darn close.

effects: How does cannabis affect the body? 🧠🌿

Okay, you've now found your prescription, the right strain and you might even be about to take your first medicinal cannabis. But what actually happens in your body? How does it work - and why do some people swear by it, while others say it just makes them tired or confused?

The answer: It depends.

Cannabis is not an aspirin tablet that always works the same. The effects depend on many factors: the strain, the dosage, your individual reaction and even your form on the day.

THC vs CBD - which does what?

The two main active ingredients in cannabis, THC and CBD, have very different effects on the body. So that you don't lose track, here is a brief overview:

The right mix makes the difference: Some patients need more THC, others more CBD - and many benefit from a combination.

How quickly and for how long does cannabis work

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This depends heavily on how you take it.

Many patients start with a vaporiser because it allows them to control the dosage best. With edibles or drops, you may take too much because the effects only kick in late

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Why does cannabis affect everyone differently?

Have you ever experienced two people taking exactly the same amount of cannabis - but reacting to it completely differently? This is due to the endocannabinoid system.

Yes, our body has its own system for cannabis! THC and CBD dock onto receptors that are responsible for pain perception, mood, sleep and the immune system, among other things. And this is different for every person, which is why the same strain can help you wonderfully against pain - while your mate just gets tired from it.

A little patience is all it takes

Cannabis is not a painkiller that you simply swallow and then works immediately. It takes a little time to find out which strain, dosage and dosage form works best for you. But once you have found the right balance, it can be a real alternative to traditional medication - without all the nasty side effects of many painkillers.

And let's be honest: if your body has its own system that is made for cannabis - wouldn't it be almost rude not to use it? 😉

Costs & coverage by health insurance 💰📑

Now it's getting awkward - because no matter how well cannabis can work as a medicine, in the end there is always the big question: Who pays for it all? And the answer to this is more complicated than it should be.

If you've ever filled a prescription for medicinal cannabis, you'll recognise the moment of shock: the pharmacist tells you the price and you briefly wonder whether you've ordered truffles or a bottle of fine vintage wine by mistake. Cannabis as a medicine is expensive - really expensive.

How much does medicinal cannabis cost?

The prices are not standardised, but fluctuate somewhere between €10 and €25 per gram. That sounds okay at first - until you realise that many patients need 10 to 30 grams per month. Suddenly you are faced with a bill of 300 to over 700 euros per month.

For people who are dependent on the drug, this is a real problem. After all, who has a small monthly salary to spare just to afford their medicine?

Does the health insurance company pay - or does it leave you hanging?

In principle, it is said that health insurance companies can cover the costs of medical cannabis - but that doesn't mean that they will.

Because patients first have to overcome a number of hurdles before a health insurance fund will give the go-ahead. This means:

• A doctor must confirm that other treatments have not helped
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• It must be proven that cannabis is a sensible alternative
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• The application for cost coverage must be officially approved
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And this is where the frustration begins: Many applications are rejected, often with standard justifications such as "Not enough scientific evidence" or "Other medications have priority". In practice, for many patients this means either lodging an objection or paying for it themselves

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If the insurance company says no - what then?

A rejection is not the end. Many patients only get their costs covered after several attempts. What helps?

1. Stay persistent, lodge an objection, submit new medical reports and don't let up.
2. Find a specialised doctor. Some doctors are experienced in cannabis therapies and know how to formulate the application correctly.
3. Involve a lawyer if necessary. There are law firms that specialise in just such cases and can help if the health insurance company puts up a stubborn front.

Why is cannabis so expensive - and will it get better?

One of the main reasons for the high costs: Almost everything is imported. Much of it comes from Canada or the Netherlands, and due to bureaucracy, taxes and pharmacy surcharges, the product ends up on the shelves here in Germany at moon prices.

The hope lies in cultivation in Germany. The first domestic production facilities have been operating for a few years now and, with a bit of luck, prices could fall in the future. But when exactly will that happen? Uncertain.

Those who persevere have a chance

For many patients, cost coverage is the biggest hurdle. Those who fight their way through the bureaucratic jungle, write applications and, if necessary, appeal can ultimately be successful. But it's a rocky road - and until politicians finally realise that pain patients shouldn't beg for their medicine, not much is likely to change.

Experiences with medicinal cannabis 🌿🗣️

Some people swear by it, others barely feel any effect - experiences with medicinal cannabis are as varied as the people themselves. While some patients finally experience a new quality of life, others are left feeling very disillusioned. But what do those who actually use it actually say?

Here is an insight into the most common experiences and challenges:

How patients experience medicinal cannabis:

✅ "Less pain at last!"
Chronic pain is the reason many people think about cannabis as a medicine in the first place. Whether arthritis, migraines or nerve damage - many sufferers report that they feel halfway normal again for the first time in years. Strains with a high THC content in particular are often described as effective for pain.

✅ "I can sleep again - properly!"
Lying awake all night, tossing and turning for hours on end, a new battle every night - for many people with chronic complaints, lack of sleep is simply part of the game. Cannabis, especially indica-dominant strains, has made a big difference for some patients: they fall asleep faster, don't wake up constantly and feel less groggy in the morning.

✅ "My body is no longer so cramped."
Patients with conditions such as multiple sclerosis or chronic muscle spasms often report that cannabis noticeably alleviates their symptoms. Instead of feeling stiff and restricted, they experience a kind of gentle relaxation - as if the body is finally letting go.

✅ "I take less other medication."
Many people who have been taking strong painkillers or tranquillisers for years find that cannabis allows them to reduce their dose or eliminate some medication altogether. This often means fewer side effects - and the feeling of no longer pumping the body full of chemicals.

❌ "I hardly noticed any change."
Cannabis doesn't work the same for everyone. Some patients report that they barely notice any improvement despite taking it regularly. This may be due to the wrong strain, a dosage that is too low - or simply because cannabis is not the right medicine for that person.

❌ "I just got tired of it."
A common criticism: The effects are too strong. Especially if patients start with too high a dose or get a very THC-heavy strain, the effects can be paralysing rather than liberating. Some patients then not only feel more relaxed, but also completely slowed down - which can be extremely impractical, especially during the day.

❌ "The bureaucratic battle was hell."
The biggest hurdle for many patients is not even the cannabis itself, but the paperwork surrounding it. Countless applications, expert opinions, rejections, appeals - and even then there is no guarantee that the health insurance company will pay. Many report that they simply paid themselves at some point because they didn't have the energy to fight.

Cannabis is a blessing for many - but not for everyone

For some patients, medicinal cannabis changes their lives: less pain, better sleep, a bit of normality back. But it is not a miracle cure. It can take time to find the right strain - and even then, there is no guarantee that it will help perfectly.

The plant itself has great potential - but the system surrounding it often makes it unnecessarily difficult for patients. If you want to use cannabis as a medicine, you not only need a prescription, but also patience. 🚦

Driving a car with cannabis on prescription: is it possible? 🚗💨

You have a prescription for medicinal cannabis - but what does that actually mean for driving? Can you simply get behind the wheel with a legally prescribed cannabis therapy? Or do you still face fines and driving licence disqualification?

The answer is unfortunately not that simple. Because even if you can get your cannabis legally from a pharmacy, the rules are stricter for you than for someone with a glass of wine with dinner.

Cannabis & driving - what's allowed, what's not?

What you should definitely look out for

• Test your own reaction! Every body processes THC differently. Just because you feel "normal" does not mean that your ability to react is not impaired
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• Get a certificate from your doctor Some patients ask for confirmation that they are fit to drive while taking cannabis in addition to the prescription.
• Be careful with new strains or higher doses! If you change your medication, you should first test how you react to it - and preferably avoid driving for a few days.
• Police checks can be unpleasant Even if you use cannabis legally, you may have to explain a lot at first. Stay calm, show your prescription and point out that you are under medical supervision.

You can drive with cannabis on prescription - but there are risks

Theoretically, it is legal to drive with medicinal cannabis. In practice, however, there can still be problems, especially if you are pulled over or involved in an accident.

If you want to be on the safe side, the golden rule is: If in doubt, leave the car at home. 🚗