Ireland

Ireland launched a Medical Cannabis Access Programme (MCAP) in 2019 on a five-year pilot basis. Access is restricted to three conditions (MS spasticity, chemotherapy nausea, and treatment-resistant epilepsy) and requires consultant specialist prescription.

Ask the Expert about Ireland

Regulator

HPRA

Key Legislation

Misuse of Drugs

Year Legalized

2019 (pilot)

Program Size

Very limited; fewer than 100 patients...

Key Facts

MCAP covers only MS spasticity, intractable nausea/vomiting from chemotherapy, and severe treatment-resistant epilepsy
Only consultant specialists can initiate prescriptions — GPs cannot prescribe
The HPRA is responsible for product quality and supply chain oversight
Patient uptake has been very low due to restrictive conditions and limited prescriber participation
A ministerial license pathway exists for compassionate access outside the MCAP

Key Legislation

Misuse of Drugs (Prescription and Control of Supply of Cannabis for Medical Use) Regulations 2019

Regulatory Body

HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Europe

Tier

Tier 2 — Emerging

Status

Emerging Program

Sources

HPRA — Medical Cannabis Department of Health — MCAP

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.