The first cannabis-based medications have been registered in Ukraine.

In Ukraine, the first medications based on medical cannabis have been officially registered.

This was reported by the charity fund "Patients of Ukraine."

"A year has passed since the law on the legalization of medical cannabis was adopted in Ukraine. During this time, the Ukrainian legal system has been prepared for the legalization of medical products. The first manufacturer has already registered the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), so soon the first medications will appear in pharmacies," said Olga Stefanishina, a member of the Ukrainian parliament.

In addition to oral cannabis drops, pharmacies will soon offer solid capsules, dental pastes, and gels. These forms of medication were approved by the Ministry of Health in 2024.

A list of diseases and conditions for which doctors can prescribe medical cannabis treatment has also been adopted. Thus, treatment will be available for patients with chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, Tourette's syndrome, pharmacoresistant epilepsy, childhood seizure disorders, and anorexia due to HIV.

"Currently, the list of conditions is not progressive. The patient community insists that PTSD should be included in this list. So far, we have managed to ensure that medications can be prescribed for other conditions based on the conclusions of the medical advisory commission in hospitals with a scientific basis. This will provide access to treatment for a larger number of patients in need," said Inna Ivanenko, executive director of the charity fund "Patients of Ukraine."

Medications will be dispensed in pharmacies based on an electronic prescription from a doctor in the patient's name. Pharmacies that will manufacture the medications must hold three licenses – for retail trade, manufacturing of products, and handling of narcotic substances.

According to the Ministry of Health, 6 million patients require medications based on medical cannabis. For over 5 years, the patient community has been fighting for these medications to become accessible in Ukraine.

"Millions of patients are waiting for access to progressive treatment with medical cannabis in Ukraine. In just a few months, patients will be able to relieve pain and other severe symptoms of diseases and improve their quality of life," said Dmytro Sherembei, head of the coordination council of the charity organization "100% Life."

Background. Earlier, Mind reported that the first medication based on medical cannabis could be available to Ukrainian patients as early as January 2025.