Cannabis Pharmacy: Obtain medical cannabis safely with a prescription

Key findings

• Medical cannabis has been legally available by prescription in Germany since 2017. – Purchase is only possible through a pharmacy with a valid cannabis prescription (paper or e-prescription).

• Specialized cannabis pharmacies often carry over 200 varieties. on flowers, extracts and more Cannabis products with verified quality and transparent live inventory.

• The costs can be covered if there is a corresponding medical indication. The costs are covered by statutory health insurance – in many cases, an application is worthwhile.

• Discreet home delivery is standard. – via DHL standard shipping, Go Express or courier service, the goods reach patients throughout Germany within a few working days.

• Legal specifics regarding road traffic and travel require special attention – patient ID cards and Schengen certificates can help here.

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Since the 2017 legal amendment, a completely new chapter in medical care has opened in Germany: patients with serious illnesses can use medical cannabis as a treatment option. At the heart of this development are specialized cannabis pharmacies, which are far more than just dispensing points. They combine pharmaceutical expertise with a comprehensive product range and personalized consultation.

This guide tells you everything you need to know about getting legal cannabis by prescription – from the requirements and the ordering process to legal questions about traveling by bicycle, car or on trips.

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Cannabis pharmacy – what does specialization mean in practice?

The term "cannabis pharmacy" refers to specialized mail-order or brick-and-mortar pharmacies that focus on medications containing cannabinoids. This explicitly refers to... not These are not coffee shops or leisure retail outlets, such as those that exist in the Netherlands or parts of the USA. In Germany, these pharmacies operate under strict pharmaceutical standards and legal regulations.

Around 2010, the first specialized pharmacies focusing on supplying cannabis patients emerged in Germany. Today, they provide tens of thousands of patients nationwide with a wide range of flower varieties, cannabis extracts, and finished medicinal products.

Quality is paramount: Many of these pharmacies operate with TÜV- or ISO-certified quality management systems. These standards guarantee the safe processing of every order – from pharmaceutical inspection to product collection or shipment.

The team at a specialized cannabis pharmacy often consists of dozens of employees: pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, logistics specialists, and sometimes even their own laboratory departments. Together, they ensure that cannabis prescriptions and finished medicinal products are processed professionally every day – and that every patient receives the best possible advice.

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Requirements: How do I legally obtain medical cannabis?

Important to know: Medical cannabis is a prescription drug. In Germany, it can only be obtained with a valid prescription – either a traditional paper prescription or a modern electronic prescription.

General practitioners and specialists Cannabis may be prescribed when other therapies have been exhausted or are not tolerated. Prescriptions are particularly common among specialists in pain management, neurology, or palliative care. Crucially, a serious illness must be present and cannabis must offer a realistic prospect of symptom relief.

Telemedicine Access has been significantly simplified in recent years. Patients can contact specialized telemedicine physicians via online consultations, discuss their findings, and – provided the medical requirements are met – receive a prescription. During these consultations, the patient's medical history, existing findings, and the role of cannabis therapy within the overall treatment plan are carefully reviewed.

Typical Indications for which medical cannabis is frequently prescribed:

• Chronic pain (e.g. neuropathic pain)

• Spasticity in multiple sclerosis

• Loss of appetite and nausea during chemotherapy

• Certain neurological and psychiatric disorders

Dosage is always determined individually by the doctor and should be closely monitored, especially during the initial adjustment phase. Self-adjusting the dose is not only ineffective but can also pose risks.

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Ordering from the cannabis pharmacy: Step-by-step from prescription to delivery

The ordering process at a cannabis pharmacy may seem complicated at first glance, but in practice it is well-structured and patient-friendly. Here you can find out exactly how online and in-store ordering work.

Redeem paper prescription

With a classic paper prescription, you have two options:

1. Send by post: Many online pharmacies offer a prepaid envelope. You send in your original prescription and receive your medication by mail a few days later.

2. Personal delivery: At a local pharmacy specializing in cannabis, you can hand in your prescription directly and pick up the product on site.

Danger: For prescriptions for controlled substances and private prescriptions, the original prescription is mandatory. Copies are not accepted.

Use e-prescription

The e-prescription is revolutionizing access to medical cannabis:

• The prescription will be stored on your health insurance card or provided as a QR code.

• In the online shop of the cannabis pharmacy, you can upload the QR code or send the data via email.

• Alternatively, redemption is also possible via app directly using the electronic health card.

The typical ordering process

Step	What happens?
1. Submit the recipe	By mail, upload or e-prescription
2. Pharmaceutical examination	The pharmacist checks the prescription for completeness.
3. Clarify any remaining questions	If there are any uncertainties, we will contact you by phone.
4. Order picking	Goods are assembled in the warehouse.
5. Shipping/Collection	Delivery via DHL, Go Express, courier service or collection

Cannabis pharmacies typically use Discreet, neutral packaging . Delivery takes place throughout Germany within a few working days – express delivery is also available for urgent needs.

Special advantage: Many pharmacies' online shops allow you to view their live inventory. This lets you know in advance the availability of individual strains, their batch numbers, THC and CBD content, and terpene profiles. You can then share this information with your doctor when pre-ordering or reserving.

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Varieties, dosage forms and application in the cannabis pharmacy

The selection of cannabis products is greater than ever before. Specialized pharmacies permanently stock well over 200 different strains of flowers – including Indica, Sativa, and hybrid genetics with varying THC and CBD content.

Overview of dosage forms

Dosage form	Description	Special features
Cannabis flowers	Dried flowers for inhalation	Mostly used in vaporizers; fast onset of action.
Cannabis extracts	Standardized oils and concentrates	Precise dosing possible; also applicable sublingually.
Dronabinol	Synthetic THC in solution or capsule form	For patients with a stable daily profile
finished medicinal products	ZB Sativex (Nabiximols)	Oromucosal spray; GMP-certified
Topical creams	Ointments and creams	For skin diseases or local complaints

Understanding genetics and terpene profiles

Flowers are often described according to their genetics and chemical profile. Not only THC and CBD play a role, but also terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, and linalool. These secondary plant compounds can influence the effects – a phenomenon known as the "entourage effect."

For doctors and patients, this information provides a valuable basis for choosing a therapy. A good cannabis pharmacy will offer detailed information on each strain – often including certificates of analysis and batch numbers.

Extracts and capsules for precise dosing

For patients with stable daily requirements or respiratory problems, extracts and capsules offer an excellent alternative to inhalation. Dosage accuracy in German pharmacies is as low as 0.01% – a standard that is unparalleled internationally.

Take side effects seriously

As with any medication, cannabis can also cause side effects. The most common are:

• Tiredness and drowsiness

• dizziness

• dry mouth

• Changes in appetite

Important: Dosage adjustments should never be made without consulting your doctor. Always discuss any changes with your doctor.

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Costs & Coverage: What does health insurance cover at a cannabis pharmacy?

Prices for medical cannabis vary depending on the product type, quantity, manufacturer, and your insurance status. Here's a rough overview:

Product type	Typical price range
flowers	10–20 € per gram
Extracts	€50–150 per bottle
Dronabinol	From approximately €50
finished medicinal products	Varies greatly

Statutory health insurance coverage since 2017

Since the "Cannabis as Medicine" law came into effect, statutory health insurance companies can cover the costs of cannabis therapy. Reimbursement amounts to approximately 80–100% of the costs, which represents a significant relief given the average monthly therapy costs of €1,200.

Requirements for cost coverage:

• Previous standard therapies were not sufficiently effective or tolerable.

• Realistic therapy goals are defined.

• A detailed medical explanation is available.

• The application was submitted to the health insurance company and approved.

The application process

1. Initial prescription with justification: Your doctor will prepare a detailed report.

2. Submission to the health insurance company: They submit the application.

3. Decision: Usually within 2–4 weeks (often faster for palliative care patients).

4. Regular care: Once approved, prescriptions will be dispensed as usual.

Some cannabis pharmacies and external partners offer digital support – such as a prescription configurator or online forms for reimbursement applications. These tools significantly simplify the process for doctors and patients.

Privately insured persons and self-payers

Those with private health insurance can submit invoices to their insurer – however, reimbursement policies vary. Self-paying patients bear the full cost themselves. In any case, it is advisable to obtain a price quote from your cannabis pharmacy before starting treatment to ensure financial planning security.

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Legal matters in everyday life: Road traffic, travel & patient ID

Although medical cannabis is legally prescribed, there are special rules that apply in everyday life that you should definitely be aware of.

Road traffic

Participation in road traffic is generally possible if:

• A valid medical prescription is available.

• The dose is stable.

• There are no signs of impairment.

Danger: Studies show an approximately twofold increased risk of accidents after cannabis use. If in doubt, you should consult a doctor. Driving vehicles – including cycling. Proof of therapy can be helpful during police checks.

Patient ID card as a document

Many cannabis pharmacies offer free or low-cost patient ID cards. These document your prescription and can be presented during inspections. Please note: These are usually not official documents, but they do indicate your legal status as a patient.

Travel within the EU

For travel within the Schengen Area, you need a Schengen certificate :

• Medical certificate confirming the necessity of the medication

• Confirmation by the responsible state health authority

• Apply in good time (at least 4 weeks before departure is recommended)

Take only the amount of medication necessary for the duration of your trip and keep everything in its original packaging with the pharmacy logo.

Travel outside Europe

The legal situation varies considerably worldwide. In many countries, cannabis – even for medicinal purposes – is strictly prohibited. Contact the relevant embassy or consulate well in advance. If in doubt, it is best to refrain from bringing it with you and inquire locally about alternative solutions.

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Cannabis Pharmacy

Can I buy cannabis in a cannabis pharmacy without a prescription?

No, medical cannabis in Germany is only available with a valid prescription. It is not sold to minors and is not available as a "recreational product" like those found abroad. While the rest of the European market is developing differently, in Germany, obtaining it through a pharmacy remains mandatory.

How long is my cannabis prescription valid at the pharmacy?

Prescriptions for controlled substances must generally be filled within 7 days of the issue date. Standard prescriptions covered by health insurance are valid for a longer period (usually 28 days). Since stock availability can vary, it is recommended to fill the prescription as soon as possible.

What happens if my preferred strain is not available in the live stock?

In this case, the team at the cannabis pharmacy can suggest comparable strains with a similar THC/CBD profile and terpene content. However, any change should always be discussed with the prescribing physician. The wide variety of available flower strains usually makes it possible to find a suitable alternative.

Can I switch my cannabis medication between different pharmacies?

Yes, you can generally fill your prescription at any licensed pharmacy. However, specialized cannabis pharmacies differ in their offerings: live inventory, quality of advice, shipping options via DHL or courier service, and other services vary. A comparison can be worthwhile – pay attention to reviews from other patients.

How do I properly store medical cannabis at home?

Store your medication dry, cool and protected from light Ideally, store at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Keep everything securely closed and out of reach of children. The original packaging with the pharmacy imprint should be retained to avoid confusion and to prove legal possession in case of inspections.

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Conclusion

The path to medical cannabis in Germany is clearly regulated and well supported by specialized cannabis pharmacies. From the initial consultation with your doctor or telemedicine provider, through the uncomplicated online ordering Everything is in place, right down to discreet home delivery, to make accessing your medication as easy as possible.

With the right knowledge, a specialized pharmacy as a partner, and open communication with your treatment team, nothing stands in the way of safe cannabis therapy.

Your next step: Talk to your doctor about the possibilities of cannabis therapy – or use the online reservation service of a specialized cannabis pharmacy to find out about the current offer and availability without obligation.