Cannabis for medicinal use is a reality in Panama. Through Law 242 of 2021, Panama establishes the legal framework for the production and distribution of Cannabis for medicinal use. In this way, Panama joins other countries in the region that have taken this step.

In a simple way, Law 242 of 2021 and Executive Decree 121 of 2022, which regulates this law, create the legal framework for those who wish to produce and distribute Cannabis, as well as those interested in using it for medicinal purposes. By means of these norms, a mechanism of production licenses is established, which for the moment will only be seven. Likewise, a registration system is established for patients who use Cannabis as a treatment.

Production and distribution are strictly regulated and will only be for medicinal or research purposes. Additionally, security measures have been established that must be complied with by the production and distribution centers of this substance. The Ministry of Security will be in charge of verifying that these measures are complied with.

Those patients who need to use medicinal Cannabis must register in the Ministry of Health’s database for these. Once registered, they are given a card to be able to acquire the substance. Only persons with this card can purchase medicinal Cannabis and only in the quantities prescribed. The Ministry of Health will be in charge of ensuring that this is complied with.

These norms grant greater access to medical treatments to thousands of Panamanians who could not have access to them without the risk of a judicial process. This represents a step in the right direction in this matter.