Argentina to legalize cannabis oil

On November 23, 2016, Argentine deputies tentatively approved a bill allowing the use of hemp oil in the treatment of complex diseases, including epilepsy and fibromyalgia. In addition, representatives of the authorities of the South American state granted the profile department the right to import medicines made on the basis of cannabis.

The deputies-initiators of the bill commented on their decision as follows:

“We have done everything necessary to help patients with severe pathologies. Now the people of Argentina will not have to spend and borrow exorbitant amounts of money to buy imported drugs with dubious efficacy and side effects. In addition, cannabis oil will be provided free of charge by doctor’s prescription.”

The relevant department notes that the cultivation of cannabis at home is still illegal. For comparison, in neighboring Uruguay, self-cultivation of the psychoactive plant was allowed back in 2013. But the volume of production is limited, and the monthly limit for the purchase of cannabis in pharmacies per citizen is 40 grams.

Similar situation in Israel

In June 2016, the Israeli government approved a bill that would allow patients in need to buy cannabis from pharmacies with a doctor's prescription. At the same time, the authorities will expand the list of medical professionals authorized to issue permits.

Recently, heated discussions have been held in Israel around the issue of exporting medical marijuana. Health Minister Yakov Litzman announced his readiness to approve this initiative. Personally, the head of the relevant department does not like this idea, but he agrees to concessions, provided that the proceeds from the sale go to the development of medicine.