Morocco launches CBD study for treatment of resistant epilepsy

On Thursday March 6, 2025, a strategic partnership agreement was signed at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Tangier between Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, the Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Activités relatives au Cannabis (ANRAC), Tangier University Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy.

This initiative marks an important step forward in medical cannabis research in Morocco, particularly in the study of cannabidiol (CBD). Moroccan cannabis extract for the treatment of refractory epilepsy in children.

A study on CBD and epilepsy

This research project, which will begin in March 2025, aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of CBD in the treatment of epileptic encephalopathy in children who do not respond to conventional medication. The study will be conducted by a team of Moroccan experts and researchers, and will reinforce the country's role in the scientific exploration of medical cannabis.

The agreement builds on a framework agreement signed on February 4 between Abdelmalek Essaâdi University and ANRAC, aimed at developing alternative treatments based on cannabis extracts. The project also reflects Morocco's commitment to integrating scientific research and pharmaceutical development into the regulated use of cannabis for medical purposes.

The signing ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including

• University President Abdelmalek Essaâdi
• ANRAC General Manager
• The Director of Tangier University Hospital
• The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy
• Representatives from the pharmaceutical industry, including Axesspharma and Sothema.

Morocco's entry into medical cannabis research comes as no surprise. By investigating the medical applications of CBD derived from Moroccan cannabis, the study could not only pave the way for new therapeutic protocols, but also initiate the country's reputation as a growing player in cannabis-based medicine.

Recently, a first cannabis-based medicine launched in Morocco, a CBD oil developed as a generic of Epidiolex, specifically designed to treat refractory epilepsy.