Colombia Approves Medical Marijuana Sales in Pharmacies
The Colombian government is set to introduce a decree that will allow the legal sale of medical marijuana in pharmacies nationwide. This bill, submitted by President Gustavo Petro's administration, is currently in the public consultation phase and aims to improve patient access to medical marijuana products.
Colombia as a Leader in Cannabis Legislation
Colombia is a pioneer in Latin America regarding progressive marijuana legislation. The country permits the cultivation of up to 20 cannabis plants for personal use and is rapidly developing its medical marijuana industry. However, until now, there have been no regulations governing the sale of pharmaceutical-grade marijuana in pharmacies, which has limited patient access to these products.
According to a report from the Bogotá newspaper El Tiempo, the new decree will enable doctors to prescribe medical marijuana in various forms, such as extracts and specially prepared medications. These products will be customised to meet individual patient needs, taking into account the differing cannabinoid profiles based on medical conditions.
What are the Regulations for THC-Containing Marijuana?
Cannabis preparations and extracts containing more than 1% THC will be subject to strict regulations, similar to those that apply to controlled substances. The Subdirectorate for the Control and Supervision of Chemical Substances and Narcotic Drugs within the Ministry of Justice will be responsible for issuing licenses for the cultivation, harvesting, storage, transportation, import, and distribution of medical marijuana to pharmacies and veterinary stores.
What is the Significance of the Changes for the Market and Patients?
These new regulations are critical for Colombia. Until now, Colombians have had to rely on imported medications approved by international pharmaceutical companies to use medical marijuana. The high prices of these products have discouraged many users. Legalising the sale of medical marijuana in pharmacies will lower costs and improve access to products for patients.
Pharmacies will be allowed to source pharmaceutical-grade medical marijuana from micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises that have received production permits. Additional regulations are expected within the next two years, potentially expanding the number of producers involved in the medical sector and further developing Colombia's cannabis industry.
The introduction of medical marijuana sales in pharmacies represents a significant step toward improving treatment access and supporting the local cannabis industry. These changes could ease the lives of patients and enhance Colombia's position as a leader in the production and distribution of medical marijuana in Latin America.
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Liz Filmer
