Pharma 5 Laboratories in Morocco has introduced the country’s first-ever generic cannabis-based drug designed to treat epilepsy. This new medication, which adheres to international health standards, aims to provide a more affordable alternative to costly imported treatments, offering relief to thousands of patients in Morocco.
With approximately 400,000 people affected by epilepsy in Morocco, the high cost of imported medications has been a significant barrier to treatment. Pharma 5 recognized this market need and invested MAD 250 million ($25 million) to develop the first locally produced cannabidiol (CBD) drug. This groundbreaking move is expected to significantly reduce the cost of treatment compared to the existing generic drug, “Epidyolex,” which is priced at over MAD 10,000 ($1,000).
Pharma 5’s General Manager, Mia Lahlu Filali, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “This is a pivotal step in reducing our dependence on expensive foreign drugs and offering a locally-produced alternative to patients in need.”
The company has taken great care to ensure that the CBD used in the medication is produced to the highest standards. From eco-friendly farming practices to strict quality control during production, Pharma 5 guarantees that the drug is both effective and sustainable.
The launch of this cannabis-based epilepsy medication has garnered support from Morocco’s Directorate of Medicines and Pharmacy, as well as the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis (ANRAC). Both organizations have expressed their enthusiasm for the potential impact of the drug, which they believe will benefit not only Morocco but also neighboring regions in need of affordable medical solutions.
This development comes at a time of significant legal changes in Morocco’s cannabis policies. The country, which has long been a center for cannabis cultivation in the Rif Mountains, recently legalized the farming of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes. Over 3,000 farmers across Morocco have now received licenses to cultivate cannabis in regulated areas such as Chefchaouen and Taounate, regions previously known for illegal cultivation.
Experts predict that Morocco could generate up to $600 million annually by tapping into the growing European cannabis market. This presents a unique opportunity for the country to become a key player in the global cannabis industry while simultaneously addressing local healthcare challenges.
The launch of this cannabis-based drug marks a crucial step forward for Morocco’s pharmaceutical industry, offering both economic and healthcare benefits while positioning the country to take advantage of the rapidly expanding global cannabis market.