The Future of Medical Cannabis: A Review after 100 Days of Decriminalization in Germany

Self-Medication Through Self-Cultivation? A Historical Perspective

The idea of self-medicating with home-grown cannabis is far from new. There was a time when this was the only option for many patients facing a lack of alternative therapies. Take, for instance, the landmark case of an MS patient who was acquitted of illegal possession and cultivation of cannabis because he had no other therapeutic options. This case played a pivotal role in paving the way for the legalization of “cannabis as medicine” in Germany, eventually in 2017.

Since then, Patients can obtain cannabis via prescription, ensuring product safety and quality, and significantly enhancing medical care. Furthermore, as of April 1, with the new Cannabis Law (CanG), medicinal cannabis saw additional regulatory relaxations, making it no longer classified as a narcotic and available through standard prescriptions.

Administrative Relief and Destigmatization

Pharmacies have experienced significant relief with the removal of cannabis from the Narcotics Act. Cannabis no longer needs to be stored in safes, and the cumbersome documentation requirements for narcotics have been lifted. These changes save time and reduce administrative burden. However, medical cannabis remains a prescription drug, that requires identity and plausibility checks in the pharmacy. Such controls are essential to ensure patients receive high-quality and safe medication. Cannabis flowers are also analytically tested by manufacturers to detect and prevent unwanted contamination.

The partial legalization has also helped to destigmatize the topic of cannabis in the public eye. Cannabis is increasingly seen as medicine and not just a recreational substance. This is an important step in reducing stigma and recognizing cannabis as a legitimate therapeutic option. The increased public attention has helped to improve understanding and acceptance of medicinal cannabis.

Challenges Ahead: Separating Medicinal and Recreational Cannabis

But with the partial legalization of recreational cannabis, some new challenges have emerged. Many healthcare practitioners worry that the medical significance of cannabis might be overshadowed by its recreational use. There is concern that patients might opt for self-medication through home or club cultivation, potentially compromising their treatment.

Self-therapy with cannabis without medical supervision can lead to inadequate treatment of symptoms or underlying conditions. Wrong dosages and usage frequencies can cause interactions and side effects, risking patient health. Additionally, medicinal cannabis is subject to the specifications in the EU monograph, which ensure the active ingredient content, purity, and absence of contaminants. These standards protect patients and guarantee therapeutic efficacy.

While homegrown or club-grown cannabis is likely safer than from the illicit market, it is not intended for medical treatment and can pose health risks such as microbial contamination, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Not only the product quality itself is essential but usage also differs significantly. Patients typically take cannabis daily for medicinal purposes, use various administration routes, and apply controlled, low doses to alleviate their symptoms. They often suffer from poor physical health, psychological well-being, and overall life quality. Their primary goal is symptom relief rather than getting high, which is the main difference from recreational users who use cannabis mainly for pleasure, relaxation, and social effects.

The Path Forward

As we navigate this new landscape, it is crucial to maintain a clear distinction between medicinal and recreational cannabis. Ensuring stringent quality controls and medical supervision for medicinal cannabis will protect patient health and uphold the therapeutic benefits of this versatile plant.

Anything else?

Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!

We wish you a good read!

With legalising greetings,