Costa Rica Greenlights Medical Cannabis Sales In Pharmacies: What's Next?

By Marian Venini via El Planteo

Last week, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health announced on its official website the implementation of a regulations to facilitate the production and commercialization of medicinal cannabis products. This regulation includes provisions on administrative requirements, health registration, product specifications, control and advertising. While these products will be available in pharmacies, they will only be dispensed with a medical prescription.

Additionally, those who wish to register their products for official authorization must submit the legal and technical requirements outlined in the regulation, which will then be evaluated by the Ministry.

It is important to note that the regulation is still under review by the Directorate of Laws and Decrees and is awaiting President Rodrigo Chaves Robles’ signature.

In its announcement, the Ministry of Health acknowledged the proven benefits of medicinal cannabis and its economic and industrial potential both globally and locally. The Ministry stated that the new regulation "not only opens the door to alternative or complementary treatments for those who need them most, but also ensures the responsible use of cannabis-based products—promoting health and industry development while creating economic and research opportunities."

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