Canada has been a global leader in cannabis reform, with our medical cannabis system paving the way for recreational legalization. But how did medical cannabis gain a foothold in Canada? And what has happened to the system since recreational cannabis became legal?
Here’s a look at the history of medical cannabis in Canada:
Cannabis was added to Canada’s list of prohibited drugs in 1923, part of a wave of prohibitionist policies across the world. For decades, cannabis was stigmatized and criminalized, with little thought given to its medical potential.
It wasn’t until the late 20th century that attitudes began to shift. Patients, particularly those living with conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and multiple sclerosis, started advocating for cannabis as a treatment option. These grassroots efforts laid the groundwork for change, as patients demanded access to a plant that provided relief where conventional medications failed.
In 2000, a landmark court case changed the course of cannabis history in Canada. The Ontario Court of Appeal ruled in R. v. Parker that prohibiting access to cannabis for medical purposes violated the constitutional rights of patients. This decision forced the federal government to act.
In 2001, Health Canada introduced the Medical Marijuana Access Regulations (MMAR), making Canada one of the first countries to establish a legal framework for medical cannabis. Under this system, patients with a doctor’s authorization could grow their own cannabis or designate someone to grow it for them. Licensed suppliers were also introduced, although access remained limited.
The MMAR faced criticism for being overly restrictive and difficult to navigate. In response, the federal government replaced it with the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR) in 2013. This system introduced licensed producers (LPs), allowing patients to purchase medical cannabis from regulated sources.
The program expanded further in 2016 with the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR). This update made it easier for patients to access medical cannabis while ensuring product quality and safety through licensed producers.
When Canada legalized recreational cannabis in 2018, some questioned whether the medical cannabis system would survive. After all, recreational users now had access to the same high-quality products, often without needing a prescription.
However, the medical cannabis system continues to serve patients who benefit from professional guidance, tax deductions, and specialized products tailored to medical needs. While some patients transitioned to recreational markets, others rely on the medical system for consistent access and support.
Today, Canada’s medical cannabis system operates alongside the recreational market, offering distinct benefits for patients. Key features of the medical system include:
Physician Authorization: Patients must obtain authorization from a healthcare provider to access medical cannabis.
Licensed Producers: Patients can purchase cannabis from licensed producers with strict quality controls.
Tax Deductions: Unlike recreational cannabis, medical cannabis can be claimed as a medical expense on tax returns.
While the recreational market has made cannabis more accessible, the medical system ensures that patients with specific needs continue to receive the support they require.
Despite its success, the medical cannabis system faces challenges. Many patients report difficulty finding physicians willing to prescribe cannabis or navigating the legal requirements. Others cite cost as a barrier, as medical cannabis is not covered under most provincial health plans.
Canada’s medical cannabis system has come a long way since its inception, driven by patient advocacy and groundbreaking court rulings. While recreational legalization has broadened access to cannabis, the medical system remains an essential resource for many Canadians. As the landscape evolves, Canada’s dual approach to cannabis use serves as a model for balancing recreational freedom with medical necessity.
