British overseas territory Gibraltar has legalized medical cannabis use for patients suffering from a number of conditions.
The Gibraltar Health Authority revealed that doctors will be permitted to prescribe cannabis-based products after they have received the relevant training. Patients suffering from multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, life-altering pain and nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy will be allowed to access medical marijuana if they fail to respond to standard medications.
The Drugs (Misuse) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 amend the Drugs (Misuse) Regulations 2005 to permit cannabis use for medical purposes. St. Bernard’s Hospital will dispense the cannabis to the patients that receive a prescription.
“In my considered view, cannabis oil certainly has its place in the modern medical care of some patients,” said Acting Medical Director Dr. Krishna Rawal. “Over time, I am certain that the increased use of cannabis for medical purposes will generate overwhelming evidence in support of its use.”
Minister for Health and Care, the Hon. Paul Balban, will be in charge of the the regulation of the medicinal use of cannabis in Gibraltar.
Gibraltar is a small territory that borders the south of Spain, featuring a large rock full of Barbary macaques and a bustling town with a population of around 33,000 people. Yet it punches above its weight on the international stage due to the large number of online gambling and financial services companies that have set up headquarters there.
That status is under threat due to Brexit concerns, but legalizing medical marijuana could give Gibraltar a boost.
The Spanish territory in the vicinity of Gibraltar is the main entry point of cannabis to Europe and cargoes destined for Spain are occasionally washed up on its beaches after a police chase.
Gibraltar has long been disputed by Spain and the UK. Britain has legalized medicinal cannabis, but only a handful of patients have been able to receive it due to strict NHS guidelines.
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