Authorities insist that these medications are not for over-the-counter use. The Ministry of Health has already given the green light, with seven licenses granted for the commercialization of medicinal cannabis, one of which has already become a concrete reality: the first specialized pharmacy for these products opened in Panama. Pérez also stated that others will be able to distribute the products through existing pharmacies that have the corresponding permits. Therefore, they announced that informational campaigns aimed at the population and healthcare professionals will be launched, focusing on the medical and controlled use of medicinal cannabis. For now, all medications are imported. The confirmation came directly from the Ministry of Health through the Director of Pharmacies and Drugs, Uriel Pérez, who in an interview on TVN explained that one of the licensees decided to open a dedicated store. The regulations establish a two-year transition period for authorized companies to cultivate, process, and manufacture these products in Panama, under the regulation of the Ministry of Health and with the support of the Ministry of Agricultural Development. There, one can check which authorized products are available, the batches in stock, and in which pharmacies they can be found. The health authorities also recognize that the challenge is not only technical. CBD (cannabidiol) can be acquired with a regular medical prescription and will be used for cases such as chronic pain, in presentations like oils, creams, or tablets. They are not sold for personal decision or common ailments. The information will be open to patients and healthcare personnel. To keep the process transparent, the Ministry of Health has activated a specific section on medicinal cannabis on the website of the National Directorate of Pharmacies and Drugs. All under health supervision and with defined controls. Special prescription On the other hand, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) will require a special prescription, similar to that for controlled medications, and will be intended for more complex diseases such as refractory epilepsy or multiple sclerosis. The products are divided into two groups. Breaking the stigma remains a pending task. Access will depend on the medical diagnosis and the type of compound indicated for each case, always with a prescription and professional follow-up.
Panama Opens First Specialized Medicinal Cannabis Pharmacy
Panama has issued seven licenses for the commercialization of medicinal cannabis. The country's first specialized pharmacy has opened, and access to products like CBD and THC requires different types of prescriptions. The government has launched informational campaigns for the public and healthcare professionals.
