The first cannabis-based medicine in Ukraine.

Ukraine has taken a powerful step forward - in 2025, the first legal drugs based on medical cannabis were registered. This is not only a victory for patients who have been waiting for changes for years, but also a turning point for Ukrainian medicine.

Thousands of Ukrainians with epilepsy, cancer, and painful neurological disorders finally got a chance for quality treatment without having to look for alternatives abroad or in the shadows.

According to Deputy Minister of Health Igor Kuzin, the drugs are expected in the first half of 2025. The registration process has been completed, and instructions and control mechanisms are currently being prepared.

The Ministry of Health is actively working on implementing a control mechanism to prevent drugs from entering illegal circulation.

Manufacturers and distributors are preparing for supply. Demand is crazy, especially among small pharmacy chains that want to be among the first to offer innovative treatment.

What exactly was registered: composition and features of the drugs

We are talking about drugs based on cannabinoids, in particular CBD (cannabidiol), with minimal or completely absent levels of THC (the psychoactive component).

Most drugs contain less than 0.2% THC - a level that does not affect the psyche, but has strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The drugs are available in the form of drops, capsules and sprays - for convenient dosing and adaptation to the needs of different patients.

What diseases are they intended for?

CBD has long been used in the treatment of severe forms of epilepsy, such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome.
Medical cannabis is a new alternative to strong opioids. It reduces pain without causing addiction.
Cannabis-based medicines help with muscle spasms and pain, which are characteristic of multiple sclerosis.

For now, Ukraine plans to import medicines from Canada, Israel and Germany. After the market stabilizes, local production is also possible.

Pharmacies must undergo special accreditation to sell such medicines. This guarantees safe storage and accurate accounting.

CBD preparations are not addictive. This has been proven by numerous studies.

Medical cannabis is strictly dosed, does not contain THC in psychoactive concentrations and is sold exclusively by prescription.

How to get a prescription for medical drugs with cannabis

A prescription can only be written by doctors who have undergone appropriate training and have access to an electronic control system.

The patient must have an official diagnosis, medical history and a commission decision on the need for such treatment.

Most doctors are positive about the reform, but emphasize the need for specialist training.

Pharmacists expect great demand, especially in regions where there is a shortage of alternative pain relief.

What next? Forecast for Ukraine

It is expected that this will open the way to modern medicine and improve the quality of life of thousands of patients.

The main threat is unauthorized circulation and abuse. That is why there is such attention to regulation.

This is hope. Finally, there is a real opportunity to receive effective, safe and modern treatment.