About a month after the legislation was allowed to progress towards the president’s desk, having faced numerous blockades in the country’s parliament, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky finally approved the bill legalizing medical cannabis on Wednesday. The law is scheduled to take effect within six months of being formally published. During this time, the Ministry of Health and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine will be responsible for developing the rules governing the program. In the meantime, imports of marijuana products can begin once cannabis is reclassified from strictly prohibited under List I to available for medical use with a prescription under List II of the nation’s drug code. Opponents previously tried to derail the marijuana bill, but their attempts similarly failed, with the measure passing with 248 votes.
Legalization Provides Relief to Patients with Severe Illnesses and PTSD
The newly approved law will legalize medical cannabis for patients suffering from severe illnesses, as well as those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although the original text of the bill only explicitly mentioned cancer and war-induced PTSD as conditions eligible for medical cannabis prescriptions, the health committee chair mentioned in July that lawmakers are constantly hearing from patients afflicted with other illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.
In his address to parliament, Zelensky emphasized the importance of embracing innovative policies that may seem difficult or unconventional at first glance. Dating back to his presidential campaign in 2019, President Zelensky has been vocal about his support for legalizing medical cannabis. At the time, he stated that allowing people access to cannabis “droplets,” possibly referring to marijuana tinctures, would be a “normal” move.
A Step Towards Greater Patient Access and Relief
For patients in Ukraine battling severe illnesses or PTSD, the legalization of medical cannabis is a significant step towards greater relief and improved quality of life. The law aims to encompass patients suffering from a range of debilitating conditions, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, thus ensuring that the benefits of regulated cannabis-based medicine are made accessible to those who need it most.
The coming months will see the development of specific rules and guidelines governing the medical marijuana program under the guidance of the Ministry of Health and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Once these regulations are implemented, it is expected that the nation will witness an increase in the imports and availability of medical cannabis products for prescription use, thereby offering patients better access to necessary treatments.
Rita Ferreira
Rita is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience, having worked with globally renowned platforms, including Forbes and Miister CBD. Her deep knowledge of hemp-related businesses and passion for delivering accurate and concise information distinguish her in the industry. Rita's contributions empower individuals and companies to navigate the complexities of the cannabis world, and her work remains a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of its potential.
