Italy: legalization of medical cannabis takes a step forward

The lower house of the Italian parliament today approved the legalization of the cultivation and consumption of cannabis for medicinal purposes. The bill received 317 votes in favor, 40 against and 13 abstentions. It must now go before the Senate before being approved.

In particular, the text sets uniform criteria for access to to medical cannabis, It encourages scientific research into the possible uses of cannabis, and simplifies hiring in the industry.

The medical use of cannabis has been legal in Italy since 2013. The country originally relied on Dutch Bedrocan imports to supply its pharmacies, but soon realized that the product was too expensive for patients. As a result, it began a national cultivation program, led by the Army, The results have been unconvincing, with prices hovering around €20 per gram on sale. Some patients can grow their own cannabis with authorization.

Among the new features of the bill, doctors will be able to prescribe medication for a wider range of conditions, including pain. The prescription will have to specify a treatment duration not exceeding 3 months, in addition to the dose and dosage.

Medicines authorized by the Ministry of Health and prescribed by a doctor will be eligible for reimbursement by the Italian Social Security. Their VAT rate will be reduced to 5% (compared with 22% at the standard rate).

The cultivation of cannabis may be entrusted to private companies, which may import or export cannabis between authorized entities. 1.7 million euros will be allocated to the development of this industry.

The Italian regions and autonomous provinces will be responsible for collecting data on patients, the pathologies treated and the effectiveness of treatments.

Prevention and information campaigns will also be set up for Italians and healthcare personnel involved in pain management or research into the therapeutic use of cannabis.