Austria

Austria permits cannabis-based medicines through a strict prescription system regulated by BASG (the Austrian Federal Office for Safety in Health Care). Dronabinol and Sativex are available by prescription for specific medical conditions, but whole-plant cannabis flower is not approved. Recreational cannabis remains illegal, though possession of small amounts for personal use is typically diverted to health-focused interventions rather than criminal prosecution.

Ask the Expert about Austria

Regulator

BASG

Key Legislation

Suchtmittelgesetz

Year Legalized

N/A (prescription medicines only)

Program Size

Limited; prescription-only pharmaceut...

Key Facts

Dronabinol (synthetic THC) and Sativex (nabiximols) are available by prescription from licensed pharmacies
Whole-plant cannabis flower is not approved for medical use — only pharmaceutical preparations are permitted
The Narcotic Substances Act (SMG) classifies cannabis as a controlled substance but allows health-related diversion for minor personal-use offenses
Industrial hemp cultivation is legal with THC content below 0.3%, and Austria has a significant hemp farming tradition
Austria's strict approach contrasts with neighboring Germany's liberalization, and there is growing domestic debate about reform

Key Legislation

Suchtmittelgesetz (SMG) — Narcotic Substances Act (1998, amended)

Regulatory Body

BASG (Bundesamt für Sicherheit im Gesundheitswesen / Federal Office for Safety in Health Care)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Europe

Tier

Tier 3 — Restricted

Status

Cannabis — Restricted

Sources

BASG — Federal Office for Safety in Health Care Austrian Federal Ministry of Health

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.