NPAC advocates separation of medical and recreational cannabis

TORONTO  — The Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada on Tuesday applauded the federal government's Task Force on Marijuana Legalization and Regulation for recognizing the need to preserve the system of medical cannabis separate from the recreational system.



In its report released yesterday, the Task Force clearly noted Neighbourhood Pharmacies' proposition that medical cannabis is a serious drug and that Canadians expect that strength and packaging standards applied to prescription medications be applied to cannabis.



"We're looking forward to meeting with provincial pharmacy regulatory authorities, the pharmacy community and lawmakers to shape retail rules," stated Justin Bates, CEO Neighbourhood Pharmacies. "We will continue to advocate for patient centric regulations that bring those using medical cannabis into the circle of care."



Neighbourhood Pharmacies is also pleased to see recommendations that retail sales should prohibit co-location of alcohol or tobacco with cannabis sales and that there should be limits to maintain appropriate distances from schools.



Over the coming months Neighbourhood Pharmacies will be encouraging federal and provincial lawmakers to enact legislation and regulations that ensure Canadians use medical marijuana as intended, and avoid adverse events.



"Collectively members of Neighbourhood Phamacies are a central part of Canada's health system, and a significant contributor to our economy – contributing $12.5 billion in economic value to Canada's healthcare system annually," Bates said. "This is essential in preventing adverse drug reactions, operating an efficient supply chain, providing innovative drug therapies and lower-cost generic drugs, as well as compounding and compliance packaging to ensure patients take the right medications at the right time."



According to Neighbourhood Pharmacies, pharmacies across Canada are uniquely placed to help the government deliver on its commitment to legalize, regulate and restrict the use of cannabis in a safe and responsible manner.