April 2021 – Ukraine has taken a step towards liberalising regulations on the use of cannabis-based medicines. In particular, the Cabinet of Ministers has legalized:
- Nabilone (a synthetic cannabinoid, mimicking the effect of THC); and
- Nabiximols (a specific cannabis extract with the same content of THC and cannabidiol).
The psychotropic substances Dronabinol, Nabilon and Nabiximols are allowed only in the form of medicines (on prescription) or in the form of substances intended for the production and manufacture of such medicines.
To recap, medical use of cannabis is currently prohibited in Ukraine. Subject to obtaining of a relevant license, cannabis is permitted for (i) forensic examination; (ii) operational investigations in connection with criminal intelligence and surveillance operations; (iii) academic research and educational purposes (if such purpose is sanctioned by law); and (iv) for the cultivation and use of low THC-yielding plants (0.08%), only for industrial purposes and not for medical treatment.
Importantly, in 2020, according to results of a nationwide opinion poll, Ukrainians voiced their support for the legalisation of medical cannabis. In addition, four alternative draft laws on the legalisation of medical cannabis were registered in the Ukrainian parliament over the past 6 months.
We will keep you posted with any updates.
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