Spain: Minister of Health promises report on medical cannabis by the end of May

The Minister of Health of Spain, José Manuel Miñones, announced that he will present a report by the end of May to regulate the use of medical cannabis in the Spanish national health system. The news, advanced by the Diario de Sevilla, also mentions that the Minister apologized for the delay and assured that it was due to 'excessive zeal'.

After months of delay, the report by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products appears to be about to see the light of day. The guarantee was given by the Minister of Health, José Manuel Miñones, who announced that he would present a report by the end of May to regulate the use of medicinal cannabis in the Spanish national health system (SNS).

The Minister explained that it was not possible to fulfill it within the stipulated period because additional time was needed to guarantee the safety of patients, emphasizing that the delay was not due to bad faith, but due to excessive zeal. The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), who missed the deadline for giving their opinion, deserved several criticisms from parliamentarians.

The Spanish Congress has already pronounced in favor of the regulation of medical cannabis in June 2022 and gave the AEMPS six months to issue recommendations. After regulation, cannabis-based medicines may be prescribed and available in pharmacies upon prescription. Miñones stated that the pharmaceutical industry is already working on a strategic plan and highlighted the importance of cooperation with other European Union countries.

In addition, the document specifies that, although the use is limited to experimental projects, the flower can be used, as well as other preparations available in the countries of the European Union. However, self-cultivation should not be considered as a viable option by the AEMPS opinion.

Spain delays regulation of medical cannabis