Restricting access to cannabis may worsen the quality of treatment
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As of 1 January 2025, Luxembourg will introduce changes to the medical cannabis programme, restricting the use of the plant's flowers. Instead, patients will be encouraged to use THC-limited oils. The Government attributes this decision to the lack of sufficient scientific evidence to support the efficacy of cannabis and the need to prevent abuse.
Patient group Cannamedica warns that the change could have a negative impact on patients using cannabis to treat chronic conditions. Line Olinger from Cannamedica emphasises that cannabis flowers provide therapeutic effects thanks to a combination of substances including THC and CBD.
For patients accustomed to the current programme, switching to new products can be difficult and ineffective. According to Olinger, the decision unfairly penalises patients for cases of cannabis abuse by others.
The existing programme provides access to safe and regulated cannabis products, preventing the risks associated with home cultivation. Cannamedica hopes that the government will reconsider its decision and offer patients a more balanced solution.
