Morocco Introduces Its First CBD-Based Generic Drug for Epilepsy
Pharma 5, a renowned Moroccan pharmaceutical company, has unveiled the country’s first locally developed generic medication derived from medical cannabis. Named CANNABIDIOL PHARMA5, this groundbreaking drug is based on cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, and aims to treat drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly severe forms like Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes.
A Game-Changer for Epilepsy Treatment
Epilepsy affects over 50 million people globally, including approximately 400,000 patients in Morocco. Many individuals suffering from pharmacoresistant epilepsy lack access to affordable and effective treatment options. CANNABIDIOL PHARMA5 serves as a more accessible alternative to GW Pharmaceuticals’ EPIDYOLEX, offering comparable efficacy at a fraction of the cost.
Research has consistently supported the use of CBD for treating refractory epilepsy. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to significantly reduce seizure frequency, especially in challenging conditions like Dravet syndrome, with minimal side effects. For patients in Morocco, this development represents newfound hope and a path to improved quality of life.
Made in Morocco, for the World
What sets CANNABIDIOL PHARMA5 apart is its entirely local production chain. From the cultivation of medical-grade cannabis to its formulation into a high-quality drug, every step adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This project is a direct result of Morocco's legalization of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes in 2021, reinforcing the country’s position as a pioneer in North Africa's pharmaceutical cannabis industry.
Pharma 5 has invested approximately 250 million dirhams (approx. 34 millions dollars CAD) in this project, which aligns with the national strategy to strengthen Morocco’s pharmaceutical autonomy and improve access to essential medications. Collaborating with regulatory authorities such as the National Agency for Cannabis Regulation and the Ministry of Health, the company ensures high standards of safety, quality, and efficacy.
A Milestone in Global Medical Cannabis
This development also highlights Morocco’s ambition to enter the global medical cannabis market. With a rising demand for cannabis-based therapies, the country’s robust natural resources and expertise position it to compete internationally. CEO Mia Lahlou-Filali of Pharma 5 emphasized, “This innovation reflects our industry’s maturity and ability to adapt to evolving global health trends.”
Looking Ahead
The launch of CANNABIDIOL PHARMA5 is not just a win for epilepsy patients but a pivotal moment for the Moroccan pharmaceutical sector. It demonstrates the potential of leveraging natural resources to create innovative health solutions while making cutting-edge treatments accessible to underserved populations.
For patients, healthcare providers, and advocates of medical cannabis, this achievement showcases how scientific progress and regulatory frameworks can come together to make a real difference.
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