Medical Cannabis Legalized in Gibraltar

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]G[/dropcap]ibraltar is a sovereign British state located on Spain’s southern coast, and on Oct. 22 announced that it would be taking action to legalize medical cannabis.

According to the HM Government of Gibraltar, officials amended the Drug (Misuse) Regulations 2005 and replace it with Drugs (Misuse) (Amendment) Regulations 2019. As a result, medical practitioners will work with the Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) to prescribe medical cannabis to patients who qualify. “To me, this represents a milestone in healthcare in Gibraltar. Extensive research and consultation has gone into this project, and I am beyond delighted to be a key part of this initiative,” said Medical Director Dr. Krishna Rawal. “I am extremely keen to always provide patients with as many options as possible for their medical treatment, recovery, and their return to good health and well-being. In my considered view, cannabis oil certainly has its place in the modern medical care of some patients. Over time, I am certain that the increased use of cannabis for medical purposes will generate overwhelming evidence in support of its use.”

In order to prescribe cannabis, medical practitioners must first be authorized by completing an initial training course. After approval, they will be required to take additional courses from time to time as well.

For now, medical cannabis will be limited to those who suffer from multiple sclerosis, severe epilepsy, pain and chemotherapy. Medical cannabis products will be regulated by the GHA to ensure safety of the product, as well as efficacy. When the program goes live, the GHA will only allow medical cannabis to be given to patients through a pharmacy located at St. Bernard’s Hospital.

Gibraltar government officials decided to take this positive step forward thanks to patients in other states and countries who had found relief through medical cannabis. “The medical conditions that will be treated under the regulations are those that have the weight of evidence to support the success of cannabis as part of an overall treatment regime. With time, our medical advisers will review the success of cannabis and consider extending the scope of the medical conditions for which doctors will be able to recommend its use. Medicinal cannabis is a contemporary, much discussed, and frequently requested treatment option for patients.”