French Health Minister Explores Medical Cannabis Potential

Yannick Neuder signals openness to therapeutic cannabis while maintaining opposition to recreational legalization.

The French Health Minister, Yannick Neuder, has expressed interest in studying medical cannabis as a treatment option for patients with severe, treatment-resistant pain.
A two-year medical cannabis trial involving approximately 3,000 patients concluded on December 31, 2024, leaving the future of such treatments uncertain pending government decisions.
Patients currently in the trial can continue accessing medical cannabis until June 30, 2025, during a transitional period aimed at determining the next steps for potential broader implementation.
Neuder emphasized the potential benefits of medical cannabis for conditions like cancer-related pain, facial neuralgia, and muscle stiffness, describing it as a possible new therapeutic innovation.
While open to medical cannabis, Neuder reiterated his firm opposition to the legalization of recreational cannabis, advocating for a balanced approach to the issue.