FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis legal in Mexico?
Since June 2017, ONLY the medicinal use of cannabis is legal and regulated in Mexico.
That is, there are laws (LGS / GHL) and regulations that regulate and enable the medicinal use of cannabis in a legal and safe manner.
Among other things, it is necessary that it be prescribed by a doctor, and that patients dispense their medication at an authorized pharmacy.
What is medical cannabis?
It refers to the consumption of cannabis derivatives as a medical prescription endorsed and regulated by the corresponding laws and regulations to carry out cannabis therapies and treatments on patients who are candidates.
Is CBD regulation different from cannabis regulation?
Not in Mexico, so far.
CBD is one of the many molecules found in the cannabis plant, and which are regulated by Mexican law.
CBD, CBG, CBN, among others, are considered compounds of the cannabis plant, and are clearly regulated for medicinal use.
THC, another plant molecule, falls into the same category, with additional regulation and control depending on its concentration.
Is it safe to use medical cannabis?
The responsible use of medical cannabis, guided by a diagnosis and instructions from a licensed physician, is safe and does not cause physiological addiction.
The use of any substance or medication if it is not prescribed by a doctor and lacking adequate support could cause adverse effects on the body.
Medical cannabis, like any other medication, can cause interactions with other substances and medications.
It is important to consult your doctor trained in the subject.
Why use medical cannabis?
Multiple health institutions have published robust studies that support the use of cannabis to treat different types of pathologies.
In addition, it has been found that, under medical supervision, it can be a great companion to existing medications or even a substitute for others.
Check out our ICAN Content section to learn more about the benefits and medical and scientific evidence.
Where can you buy cannabis-based medicines?
Since it is regulated as a medicine, the only legal and ethical way to obtain medical cannabis is through authorized pharmacies and compounding drug stores.
It is imperative that the pharmacy has, in addition to its documents in order, raw materials or medicines legally brought into the country.
What is a compounded medication?
A compounded medicine is a personalized medicine, prepared for the specific needs of each patient.
It is a process regulated by Mexican laws, and recognized internationally; and it is the de facto way in a dozen countries, including Mexico, to access legal and quality medical cannabis.
Personalized medicine seeks to facilitate better pharmacological therapies and personalized treatment plans to promote patient well-being.
Are the products you can buy online safe?
Not only are they unsafe, but they are most likely illegal, since cannabis, including CBD, is a regulated market.
The medical cannabis regulations in Mexico establish that products with cannabis derivatives cannot be advertised or promoted directly to the general public.
Therefore, by using products with cannabis derivatives from unregulated markets, the patient is exposed to acquiring products with imprecise and inaccurate contents, which can put their health at risk.
Is there scientific evidence to support the use of medical cannabis?
Yes, multiple health institutions have published robust studies that support the use of cannabis to treat different types of pathologies.
Check out our ICAN Content section to learn more about cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant-derived molecules used to develop medications.
What type of patient is considered a candidate for using medical cannabis?
The patient must be evaluated comprehensively to determine the risk-benefit ratio before using medical cannabis treatments. Not all patients are candidates for its use.
Medical cannabis, like any other drug, can cause interactions with treatments and other medications.
It is imperative that a physician trained in the subject be consulted.