Evidence-based cannabis medicine for better patient outcomes
Medical cannabis is a regulated, pharmaceutical-grade treatment prescribed by physicians for a range of chronic conditions. Astrasana ensures patients in Switzerland and Europe have access to the highest quality products.
What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to pharmaceutical-grade preparations derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, prescribed by physicians to treat specific medical conditions. Unlike recreational use, medical cannabis is subject to rigorous quality controls, standardised dosing, and ongoing clinical oversight.
In Switzerland, medical cannabis has been available by prescription since 2022 without the need for a special federal permit. This regulatory shift has made it significantly easier for patients to access cannabinoid-based therapies through their treating physician and licensed pharmacies.
Recognised indications
Medical cannabis is prescribed for a variety of conditions where conventional treatments have proven insufficient or cause unacceptable side effects.
Chronic Pain
Neuropathic, inflammatory, and treatment-resistant chronic pain conditions, including pain associated with cancer and fibromyalgia.
Spasticity
Muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions, where conventional antispasmodics are inadequate.
Nausea & Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) that does not respond adequately to standard antiemetic treatments.
Epilepsy
Treatment-resistant forms of epilepsy, particularly in paediatric patients with Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Anxiety & PTSD
Anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder where conventional pharmacotherapy has been insufficient.
Appetite Loss
Cachexia and appetite loss associated with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other wasting conditions.
How patients access medical cannabis in Switzerland
Since August 2022, physicians in Switzerland can prescribe medical cannabis directly — no special federal permit is required.
Doctor consultation
The treating physician evaluates whether medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment option based on the patient's condition and history.
Prescription
The physician issues a narcotics prescription (Betäubungsmittelrezept) specifying the product, dosage, and treatment plan.
Pharmacy dispensing
The patient fills their prescription at a licensed pharmacy that carries pharmaceutical-grade medical cannabis products.
Ongoing treatment
Regular follow-ups with the prescribing physician ensure optimal dosing, monitor efficacy, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Since 1 August 2022, medical cannabis can be prescribed in Switzerland without a special permit from the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG). Legal basis: amendment to Art. 8 para. 5 of the Federal Act on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (BetmG; SR 812.121), adopted 19 March 2021.
BAG — Legal amendment on cannabis medicinesPharmaceutical-grade cannabis from Astrasana
Astrasana distributes a curated portfolio of medical cannabis products through its Swissmedic-licensed subsidiaries. From high-THC flowers to standardised extracts, our products meet the strictest pharmaceutical quality standards and are available through our network of partner pharmacies across Switzerland.
Explore our products
Questions about medical cannabis?
Our team is here to support healthcare professionals and patients with information about medical cannabis products and availability.