Spain's New Cannabis Regulations for Medical Use Face Criticism for Restrictions
Spain approves cannabis prescriptions for medical use, but critics argue the regulations are too restrictive and lack adequate physician training
Key Points
- 1Spain approves cannabis prescriptions for four medical conditions
- 2Critics argue the regulations are too restrictive and limit access
- 3Concerns over inadequate physician training for prescribing cannabis
- 4Calls for expanded qualifying conditions and improved patient access
- 5Current regulations seen as a starting point needing further development
In early 2026, Spain has made a significant move by officially allowing cannabis prescriptions for four specific medical conditions. This development comes after the country joined over 40 others in integrating cannabis into healthcare systems in 2025. The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) has outlined the conditions under which cannabis-based treatments can be prescribed, marking a crucial step towards formalizing its use in medicine
The new regulations have been met with mixed reactions. Jesús de Santiago from the Spanish Pain Society expressed relief over the clarity the regulations bring, emphasizing the importance of standardized medicines for patient safety. However, critics like Manuel Guzmán from the Complutense University of Madrid argue that the regulations are overly restrictive, limiting access to treatments that could benefit a broader range of patients
Carola Pérez, president of the Spanish Observatory of Medicinal Cannabis, voiced concerns over the lack of training for physicians, which she believes hampers effective prescription practices. Pérez, who uses cannabis for neuropathic pain, highlights the need for comprehensive training programs to ensure that physicians are well-equipped to prescribe cannabis. She also points out that the current regulations exclude many patients who could potentially benefit from cannabis treatments
Cristina Sánchez García, an academic at the Complutense University, also criticized the framework for its limitations, such as excluding family doctors from prescribing cannabis and restricting the range of conditions and products available. She believes that while the regulations are a step forward, they fall short of what is needed to keep pace with other European countries. The need for clear protocols and real-world data is emphasized to ensure that the regulations are effective and beneficial
Looking ahead, experts like Araceli Manjón-Cabeza from the Complutense University suggest that the next steps should include expanding the list of qualifying conditions and addressing legal challenges that limit cannabis dispensing to hospital pharmacies. The broader community calls for an end to the stigma surrounding cannabis use and seeks a regulatory framework that supports patients rather than treating them with suspicion. The current system, while progressive, is seen as a starting point that requires further development to meet the needs of patients effectively