Pharma 5, a trailblazer in Morocco’s pharmaceutical industry, has unveiled the nation’s first cannabis-based generic drug, marking a milestone in innovation and healthcare sovereignty.
On December 19, at its headquarters in Ouled Saleh, Pharma 5 introduced its new product, provisionally named Cannabidiol 100mg. The medication, a cost-effective oral solution, is designed to address the needs of Morocco’s 400,000 epilepsy patients, who often face prohibitive treatment costs.
The product’s development through reverse engineering adheres to strict European and American standards, yet it’s priced at 50% less than Epidiolex, its international equivalent. This significant cost reduction aims to provide accessible treatment for a condition with high unmet demand.
The launch of Cannabidiol 100mg follows Morocco’s legalization of medical cannabis use in 2022. Pharma 5, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC) and the Ministry of Health, has become a pioneer in this emerging sector. It was the first Moroccan company to file for approval in the medical cannabis market.
The medication is crafted from a carefully selected cannabis strain optimized for pharmaceutical production, ensuring therapeutic CBD levels and minimal THC content in compliance with international regulations.
While Morocco’s indigenous “Beldiya” cannabis variety has not yet been incorporated into this product, it is under rigorous study for potential inclusion in future formulations. The variety’s unique properties could play a critical role in future drug development.
Pharma 5 has adopted an inclusive approach by partnering with cannabis farmers in the Rif region, historically marginalized and heavily reliant on the illicit cannabis trade. By integrating these farmers into the legal cultivation of therapeutic cannabis, Pharma 5 underscores its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR).
The company’s 250 million MAD investment, with one-third already deployed, has funded the construction of a state-of-the-art facility adhering to international standards. This plant is designed not only for local needs but also for future exports.
This groundbreaking project exemplifies the potential of Morocco’s legal reforms. Since 2022, six training sessions have been conducted for healthcare professionals to ensure a smooth integration of cannabis-based treatments into medical practice.
Pharma 5 plans to officially launch Cannabidiol 100mg in early 2025, accompanied by clinical trials to explore additional therapeutic applications for cannabis. The medication is expected to be 50% cheaper than its imported counterpart, aiming to treat 100,000 Moroccan patients in its first phase.
Pharma 5 is positioning itself—and Morocco—as a significant player in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation. By combining cutting-edge science, inclusivity, and social responsibility, the company is demonstrating that Morocco can not only meet its own healthcare challenges but also contribute to global pharmaceutical advancements.
