Norway

Norway allows medical cannabis on an individual exemption basis through the Norwegian Medicines Agency (NoMA). There is no formal medical cannabis program; physicians can apply for individual licenses for products like Sativex. A drug reform proposal for decriminalization was narrowly rejected by Parliament in 2021.

Ask the Expert about Norway

Regulator

Norwegian Medicines Agency

Key Legislation

Medicines Act; Individual License Exemptions via NoMA

Year Legalized

N/A (individual exemptions only)

Program Size

Very limited; individual exemption basis

Key Facts

No formal medical cannabis program exists — access is via individual NoMA exemptions
Sativex (nabiximols) is the most commonly prescribed cannabis medicine
A 2021 drug reform bill proposing decriminalization was narrowly defeated in Parliament
Norway follows strict pharmaceutical-only approach to cannabis medicines
Recreational cannabis remains fully illegal with criminal penalties

Key Legislation

Medicines Act; Individual License Exemptions via NoMA

Regulatory Body

Norwegian Medicines Agency (NoMA / Statens legemiddelverk)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Europe

Tier

Tier 3 — Restricted

Status

Restricted

Sources

NoMA (Norwegian Medicines Agency)

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.