The experimentation of Therapeutic cannabis In France, initially planned for a period of two years, has just experienced a new twist. THE government has announced an extension of six months Additional, arousing many reactions in the medical world and in patients concerned. This decision raises important questions about the future of medical cannabis in France and its implications for public health.
Context of experimentation with therapeutic cannabis in France
Initial objectives of experimentation
L'Experimentation of cannabis for medical use in France began in March 2021 with ambitious goals. It aimed to assess the feasibility of the circuit of prescription and delivery, as well as the acceptability of therapeutic cannabis by patients and health professionals. This initiative has enabled around 3,000 patients with serious and resistant conventional treatments to benefit from this innovative therapy.
Reasons for the extension
There decision to extend the six -month experiment is explained by several factors. First of all, COVVI-19 pandemic slowed down the process, limiting the recruitment of patients and complicating medical follow -up. In addition, the health authorities believe they need more time to analyze In depth the data collected and draw solid conclusions on the efficiency and safety of therapeutic cannabis.
Therapeutic cannabis in pharmacy
Distribution methods
THE therapeutic cannabis is currently distributed in hospital pharmacies selected to participate in the experiment. Patients included in the program receive their treatments in the form of oils, capsules or dried flowers to spray. This controlled distribution allows rigorous monitoring and optimal product traceability.
Pharmacists training
To ensure quality management, Pharmacists participating in experimentation benefited from specific training. They were educated on Properties of therapeutic cannabis, its indications, its potential side effects and the delivery methods. This training is crucial to guarantee adequate support for patients and secure use of medical cannabis.
Therapeutic CBD in pharmacy
Differences between CBD and therapeutic cannabis
It is important to Distinguish CBD (cannabidiol) sold in therapeutic cannabis pharmacy used in experimentation. The CBD, extract from the hemp plant, does not contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) psychoactive and is not considered a drug. It is marketed as a dietary supplement or well-being product, while therapeutic cannabis is a controlled medical treatment.
CBD legal framework in France
The sale of CBD in France has been legal since 2022, provided that the product contain less than 0.3% THC. Pharmacies can offer CBD products, but they are not part of the therapeutic cannabis experimentation and do not benefit from the same medical supervision.
Therapeutic cannabis France 2024
Future prospects
L'year 2024 could mark a turning point for therapeutic cannabis In France. With the end of the prolonged experiment, the health authorities will have to rule on the sustainability of the system. The results of the study will be decisive for the future of this therapy in the country.
Legislative and regulatory issues
The possible generalization of therapeutic cannabis will require significant legislative and regulatory adaptations. The government will have to define a specific framework for the production, distribution and prescription of medical cannabis, while taking care to respect international conventions on narcotics.
Therapeutic cannabis in France: inventory
Number of patients concerned
To date, About 3000 patients were able to benefit from therapeutic cannabis as part of the experiment. This figure, although significant, remains modest in view of the estimates which evaluate several hundred thousands the number of patients potentially eligible in France.
Targeted pathologies
The experiment has focused on five main indications : Refractory neuropathic pain, certain severe forms of epilepsy, oncology support care, palliative situations, and painful spasticity of sclerosis in plates. These pathologies were chosen for their resistance to conventional treatments and the potential benefit from therapeutic cannabis.
Therapeutic cannabis: side effects
Main side effects observed
Like any treatment, the therapeutic cannabis can cause side effects. The most frequently reported are the drowsiness, dizziness, oral drought and concentration disorders. These effects are generally light to moderate and tend to fade over time.
Adverse effects management and monitoring
A narrow medical follow -up is set up to monitor and manage these side effects. THE prescribing doctors adjust the dosages according to the individual tolerance of each patient. This personalized approach is essential to optimize the benefit/risk of treatment ratio.
Therapeutic cannabis: for what diseases?
Validated therapeutic indications
THE indications currently retained for French experimentation are based on solid scientific evidence. They mainly relate to the management of chronic pain, control of symptoms in oncology, and the reduction of refractory epilepsy attacks.
Potential new indications under study
Research on therapeutic cannabis is constantly evolving. New potential indications are being studied, especially in the treatment of certain psychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and sleep disorders. The extension of the experiment could make it possible to explore these promising tracks.
Therapeutic cannabis and pain
Efficiency in chronic pain management
One of the areas where therapeutic cannabis seems particularly promising is the management of chronic pain. Many patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life, with a reduction in pain intensity and a decrease in Opioid consumption.
Patient testimonies
THE Patient feedback are generally positive. Many evoke better management of their daily symptoms, an improvement in sleep and a reduction in anxiety linked to their pathology. These testimonies, although subjective, are precious to assess the real impact of treatment on quality of life.
Therapeutic cannabis in pharmacy: price and reimbursement
Cost for patients
In the Experimentation framework, THE therapeutic cannabis treatments are provided for free to patients. However, The question of cost will inevitably arise in the event of generalization. The authorities will have to determine a fair price, which guarantees access to treatment while ensuring its economic viability.
Prospects for care by health insurance
Possible management of Therapeutic cannabis by health insurance is a major issue. It will depend on the results of the experimentation and the medical-economic evaluations in progress. Such a decision would have a considerable impact on the accessibility of treatment for eligible patients.
Conclusion
The extension of the experimentation of therapeutic cannabis in France of an additional six months testifies to the complexity and importance of this subject. This additional period will consolidate the data collected and refine the care protocols. The stakes are high: offer a new therapeutic option to suffering patients while guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of treatment.
The future of medical cannabis in France is gradually taking shape. The results of this extended experiment will be decisive for its potential integration into the national therapeutic arsenal. It is crucial that future decisions are made on the basis of solid scientific evidence and in the interest of patients.
France, long reluctant to the medical use of cannabis, seems today ready to seriously consider this therapeutic option. This development could mark a major turning point in the management of certain chronic and resistant pathologies of conventional treatments.
Faq
-
When will the experimentation of therapeutic cannabis end in France?
With the prolongation announced, the experiment should be Finish end in July 2025, depending on the exact date implemented.
-
Will therapeutic cannabis be available in pharmacy after experimentation?
This will depend on the conclusions drawn during experiments as well as the political decisions that will follow.
-
What are the main side effects of therapeutic cannabis?
The reported side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, oral dryness and light to moderate cognitive disorders.
-
Can therapeutic cannabis create dependence?
The risk is low when used under appropriate medical control; However, regular monitoring remains essential.
-
How can patients participate in experimentation?
Inclusion is done by medical prescription by a specialist doctor Participant in the program for certain targeted pathologies
