Medical Cannabis License Information
Last Updated: 08/07/2025
Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only. The official process for obtaining a medical cannabis license in Israel is determined by the Israel Medical Cannabis Agency (IMCA) and the Ministry of Health. Always refer to official government sources for the most up-to-date information.
Overview of Medical Cannabis in Israel
In Israel, cannabis for medical use is legal but strictly regulated. Patients must obtain a special license from the Ministry of Health to legally purchase and use medical cannabis products. This license is only granted to patients with specific medical conditions that have been approved for cannabis treatment.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
Medical cannabis licenses in Israel may be granted for various conditions, including but not limited to:
- Cancer patients undergoing treatment
- Chronic pain conditions
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson's disease
- Epilepsy
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
- HIV/AIDS with significant weight loss
- Terminal illnesses
The list of approved conditions may change as new research emerges and regulations are updated. Your healthcare provider can provide the most current information.
Application Process
The general process for obtaining a medical cannabis license in Israel typically includes:
- Consultation with a Specialist: You must first consult with a specialist physician who is treating your condition. This specialist must be willing to recommend medical cannabis as a treatment option.
- Specialist Recommendation: If the specialist determines that medical cannabis may be beneficial for your condition, they will prepare a detailed medical recommendation.
- Application Submission: The specialist submits the recommendation to the Medical Cannabis Unit (IMCA) at the Ministry of Health.
- Application Review: The IMCA reviews the application and medical documentation.
- License Issuance: If approved, a medical cannabis license is issued, specifying the monthly dosage and treatment period.
- Pharmacy Registration: Once you receive your license, you must register with a licensed pharmacy that dispenses medical cannabis.
Required Documentation
When applying for a medical cannabis license in Israel, you typically need to provide:
- Medical records related to your condition
- Documentation of previous treatments attempted
- A detailed recommendation from your specialist physician
- Personal identification documents
- Any additional medical documentation that supports your application
Authorized Dispensaries
Once you receive your medical cannabis license, you can only purchase products from authorized dispensaries. These are typically specialized pharmacies that have received permission from the Ministry of Health to dispense medical cannabis. Your license will specify which dispensary you are registered with.
Patient Rights and Responsibilities
As a medical cannabis patient in Israel, you have certain rights and responsibilities:
- Rights: Access to your prescribed medication, privacy regarding your medical treatment, and clear information about your treatment options.
- Responsibilities: Using cannabis only as prescribed, not sharing or selling your medication, storing it securely away from children, and not driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence.
License Renewal
Medical cannabis licenses in Israel are typically issued for a limited period, often 3-12 months. To renew your license, you must consult with your specialist physician again, who will evaluate your treatment progress and submit a renewal request if appropriate.
Official Resources
For official information and updates, please refer to the following resources:
- Israel Ministry of Health - Medical Cannabis Unit (English)
- Israel Ministry of Health - Medical Cannabis Unit (Hebrew)
- Medical Cannabis Unit - Information and Guidelines (Hebrew)
Helpful Organizations
These organizations can provide additional support and information for medical cannabis patients:
- Tikun Olam - Israel's largest medical cannabis supplier (English/Hebrew)
- Israeli Medical Cannabis Association (Hebrew)
Contact Information
If you have questions about our products or how they may be suitable for your medical needs (with a valid license), please contact us at: gil@cannado.co.il
Note: We cannot assist with obtaining a medical cannabis license. This process must be initiated through your healthcare provider.