Medicinal use of non-prescribed cannabis: a cross-sectional survey on patterns of use, motives for use, and treatment access in the Netherlands.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite the Netherlands having one of the world's oldest medical cannabis programs, the majority of people who use cannabis for medicinal purposes continue to rely on non-prescribed sources. This study investigates patterns of use, motives for use, perceived effectiveness, and barriers to accessing prescribed cannabis among individuals self-medicating with non-prescribed cannabis.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between January and April 2023, using convenience sampling primarily via social media. Participants (N = 1059) were adults (18 years or older) residing in the Netherlands who self-reported current use of non-prescribed cannabis-based products to manage physical or mental health symptoms.

Results

Cannabis was used to manage a wi

SUBMITTER: Strada L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12777223 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature