Starting from August 16, a new law legalizing the circulation of medical cannabis came into effect in Ukraine. This was a significant step forward in healthcare. Previously, the cultivation of hemp for any purpose was illegal in Ukraine. Now the situation has changed dramatically.
What does the new law entail?
The law allows the use of cannabis, its resin, extracts, and tinctures for medical purposes. They are no longer considered particularly dangerous substances, which previously limited their use. One of the key conditions is that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in medical hemp must be 0.3% or higher.
Control over cultivation and use
The cultivation of medical cannabis will be strictly regulated. The Cabinet of Ministers will consider licensing conditions that will ensure control at all stages – from import or cultivation to dispensing medicines in pharmacies. Licensing includes mandatory certification of seeds, which must be registered in the State Registry.
Testing
Testing for THC content will be conducted exclusively in state laboratories, and sample collection will be carried out in the presence of the National Police. This guarantees that the production will comply with all established standards.
Electronic tracking system
An important innovation will be the electronic tracking system, which will start operating in the fall of 2024. This system will record all operations with medical cannabis, including sowing, cloning, harvesting, manufacturing medicines, and their dispensing in pharmacies. Overall, the system will monitor over 30 types of operations.
Import and production of medicines
Special permission from the State Pharmacological Service is required to import plant material, with the amount of imported raw materials being limited by state quotas. Medical cannabis products will be manufactured in pharmacy conditions and sold only by prescription. It is expected that the medications will be available in various forms, such as oral drops, capsules, and pastes.
Personal Use of Medications
The law also allows individuals entering or leaving Ukraine to carry medications based on medical cannabis for personal use. However, the quantity of such medications should not exceed the amount specified in the prescription.
This law opens up new possibilities for treating chronic diseases and alleviating the suffering of many patients in Ukraine.
