Sativex® in Switzerland — the MS spray in detail

Sativex® is the only Swissmedic-approved THC/CBD combination product in Switzerland. Indication: multiple-sclerosis spasticity. All facts on use, price, prescription and coverage.

Only Swissmedic-approved THC/CBD combination product.

Indication: MS spasticity after failure of other antispastics.

Price: CHF 500–650 per 10 ml bottle (~4 weeks supply).

Basic-insurance coverage: only for approved MS indication with prior approval.

14-day titration up to max. 12 sprays/day.

What is Sativex®?

Sativex® (nabiximols) is a standardised full-spectrum cannabis extract from two chemovars: THC- and CBD-dominant, in a 1:1 ratio (2.7 mg THC + 2.5 mg CBD per 100 µl spray). Alcoholic peppermint-flavoured solution for oromucosal use.

Swissmedic approved Sativex® in 2013 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe MS spasticity where adequate pre-treatment with other antispastic drugs has failed.

Use and dosing

14-day titration: day 1 with 1 spray in the evening, daily increase of 1–2 sprays to the individually optimal dose. Maximum daily dose: 12 sprays (~32.4 mg THC + 30 mg CBD).

Spray under the tongue or into the cheek mucosa, at least 15 minutes before/after food and drinks. Onset: 15–40 minutes, duration 3–6 hours.

Price and coverage

Ex-factory Sativex® 10 ml: CHF 500–650 depending on pharmacy. At a standard 8 sprays/day, one bottle lasts 12–14 days — monthly cost CHF 1,000–1,400.

Basic-insurance (KVG) coverage: Sativex® is on the Specialities List (SL) with limitation. Reimbursed only for MS spasticity after documented pre-treatment failure and prior approval. Supplementary (VVG) insurance sometimes covers off-label indications.

Side effects and precautions

Common: dizziness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, application-site discomfort. Usually dose-dependent, mitigate after 1–2 weeks.

Contraindications: active psychosis, severe cardiovascular disease, pregnancy/breastfeeding. Driving fitness restricted during titration.

  • Do not combine with alcohol or benzodiazepines
  • Watch for CYP3A4 interactions
  • Regular efficacy checks recommended

Is Sativex® available in Switzerland?

Yes — Sativex® is Swissmedic-approved and available on prescription in pharmacies with narcotic authorisation. Delivery time: 24–48 hours.

Does health insurance cover Sativex®?

For the approved indication (MS spasticity after failure) with prior approval, basic insurance covers it. For other indications: individually assessed.

How fast does Sativex® work?

Onset 15–40 minutes after spray. Full antispastic effect after 2–4 weeks of titration.

Does Sativex® get you high?

With correct titration and dosing under 12 sprays/day, psychoactive effects are usually mild. Higher doses can trigger typical THC effects.

What does Sativex® cost without coverage?

CHF 500–650 per 10 ml bottle. At medium dose that is CHF 1,000–1,400 per month out of pocket.

Sativex® is a prescription-controlled narcotic. Use only under medical supervision.