Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Brand;
Sativex, and Epidiolex.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market was valued at USD 3,128.08 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 88,669.85 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 61.3%.
Cannabis, once stigmatized, is now recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating various medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer-related symptoms, and neurological disorders. This shift in perception has been bolstered by growing clinical research supporting the efficacy of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life for patients. Key factors driving the expansion of the cannabis pharmaceuticals market include progressive legalization initiatives across different regions, which have opened avenues for research and development.
This regulatory momentum has spurred pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms to explore and innovate new cannabis-derived medications. Advances in extraction technologies and formulations have enabled the development of pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products that meet stringent quality and safety standards. Partnerships between academia, healthcare providers, and industry stakeholders are fostering collaborative efforts to explore novel applications and delivery methods for cannabis pharmaceuticals. As the market continues to evolve, ongoing clinical trials and regulatory approvals are expected to further propel the adoption of cannabis pharmaceuticals, offering new therapeutic options and enhancing patient care outcomes globally.
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market Recent Developments
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In September 2023, SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals in Lisbon received authorization from the Portuguese Health Authority INFRAMED to produce, import, and export pharmaceutical cannabis products.
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In August 2023, Avicanna Inc. acquired the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers operation from Shoppers Drug Mart and launched the MyMedi.ca medical cannabis care platform.
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In February 2023, Aurora Cannabis Inc. partnered with MedReleaf Australia to introduce the CraftPlant medical cannabis brand in Australia, featuring products like Navana, HiVolt, and Greendae.
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In January 2023, Celadon Pharmaceuticals Plc's cannabis active pharmaceutical ingredient was officially registered by the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MRHA) at its Midlands facility.
- In May 2021, Jazz Pharmaceuticals completed its acquisition of GW Pharmaceuticals plc, a leader in cannabinoid-based prescription medicines.
Segment Analysis
The global cannabis pharmaceuticals market, characterized by brands such as Sativex and Epidiolex, is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing acceptance and legalization of medical cannabis across regions. Sativex, developed by GW Pharmaceuticals, is a notable brand used primarily for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis patients, leveraging a balanced THC:CBD ratio for therapeutic benefits. Epidiolex, another prominent brand, is approved for treating rare forms of epilepsy, highlighting the efficacy of CBD in managing seizure disorders. These brands exemplify the pharmaceutical industry's shift towards leveraging cannabis-derived compounds for targeted medical treatments.
North America leads the cannabis pharmaceuticals market, fueled by robust legalization efforts across various states in the U.S. and Canada. Europe follows closely, with countries like Germany and the Netherlands establishing comprehensive medical cannabis frameworks. The Asia Pacific region shows promise with evolving regulatory landscapes in countries such as Australia and Thailand, opening avenues for medical cannabis adoption. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are gradually exploring medical cannabis legalization, presenting future growth opportunities. The global cannabis pharmaceuticals market is poised for continued expansion as research uncovers additional therapeutic applications, regulatory frameworks evolve, and consumer acceptance grows, positioning cannabis-derived medications as integral to modern medical treatments worldwide.
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market has been segmented by Brand and Geography.
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market, By Brand
The Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market has been segmented by Brand into Sativex and Epidiolex.
Sativex is a cannabis-based pharmaceutical product primarily used for the treatment of spasticity due to multiple sclerosis (MS). It contains a balanced ratio of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), two primary cannabinoids found in cannabis. Sativex is administered as an oral spray, offering patients a standardized dose for consistent therapeutic effects. Approved in several countries, Sativex exemplifies the integration of cannabis-derived compounds into mainstream medicine, providing relief to MS patients by reducing muscle spasticity and improving mobility.
Epidiolex is a cannabis-derived pharmaceutical approved by the FDA for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Epidiolex contains purified CBD, devoid of THC, making it non-intoxicating. Its approval marked a significant milestone in the use of cannabinoids in medicine, demonstrating efficacy in reducing seizure frequency and improving quality of life for patients with severe epilepsy. Epidiolex's success has contributed to the expansion of clinical research and regulatory acceptance of CBD-based treatments globally.
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market, By Geography
In this report, the Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
In North America, particularly the United States and Canada, the market for cannabis pharmaceuticals has expanded rapidly with increasing legalization of medical cannabis. Companies like GW Pharmaceuticals have led innovations with products like Epidiolex, tapping into the growing demand for effective treatments for epilepsy and other neurological disorders. In Europe, regulatory approvals and clinical trials have paved the way for cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals such as Sativex, addressing conditions like MS-related spasticity. The region's stringent regulatory frameworks ensure product safety and efficacy, fostering confidence among healthcare providers and patients.
In Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America, the cannabis pharmaceuticals market is in varying stages of development due to diverse regulatory environments and cultural attitudes towards cannabis. Countries in these regions are gradually exploring medical cannabis legalization, presenting opportunities for market expansion as awareness grows and regulatory frameworks evolve. The adoption of cannabis-based pharmaceuticals in these regions is influenced by ongoing clinical research, patient advocacy, and investments from pharmaceutical companies aiming to address unmet medical needs. As global acceptance and research into cannabis-based therapies continue to advance, the cannabis pharmaceuticals market is poised for significant growth, driven by innovation, regulatory reforms, and increasing recognition of cannabis's therapeutic potential.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Growing acceptance of cannabis in healthcare
- Demand for safer, alternative treatments
- More research on cannabis benefits
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Rising need for chronic disease management - There is a noticeable increase in the demand for effective management of chronic diseases, which has propelled interest in cannabis-based treatments. Chronic diseases such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy often require long-term symptom management strategies that conventional medications may not fully address. Cannabis, particularly compounds like THC and CBD, has shown promise in alleviating symptoms such as pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms associated with these conditions.
As patients seek alternatives to mitigate side effects from traditional pharmaceuticals or achieve better symptom control, the role of cannabis in chronic disease management becomes increasingly significant. This trend underscores the need for further research into cannabis efficacy and safety, as well as clearer regulatory frameworks to ensure patients have access to standardized and reliable treatment options.
Restraints:
- Complex and inconsistent regulations
- Limited long-term research on efficacy
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Challenges in standardizing dosing - One of the primary challenges in integrating cannabis into medical practice is the difficulty in standardizing dosing protocols. Unlike conventional medications with precise dosages, cannabinoids exhibit variability in potency and effectiveness due to factors like plant genetics, cultivation methods, and extraction techniques. This variability poses challenges for healthcare providers aiming to establish consistent treatment plans and outcomes for patients.
The lack of standardized dosing guidelines complicates patient management and may contribute to variability in therapeutic responses. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, and regulatory bodies to establish evidence-based dosing recommendations and quality control measures. Advances in analytical testing and formulation technologies are crucial in achieving reliable and reproducible cannabis products that meet medical standards.
Opportunities:
- Developing targeted cannabis therapies
- Collaborating across pharmaceutical and cannabis sectors
- Using advanced tech in research and production
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Educating patients and providers about cannabis use - Education plays a pivotal role in overcoming barriers to the acceptance and integration of cannabis into medical practice. Many patients and healthcare providers lack comprehensive knowledge about the potential benefits, risks, and proper use of cannabis for therapeutic purposes. Education initiatives are essential to inform patients about cannabinoid pharmacology, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications.
Equally important is providing healthcare providers with evidence-based training on cannabis treatments, enabling them to make informed decisions and recommendations based on patient needs and scientific evidence. Effective education programs also promote responsible cannabis use, helping to mitigate misuse and enhance patient safety. As attitudes and regulations around cannabis evolve, ongoing education efforts are critical in fostering informed decision-making and maximizing the therapeutic potential of cannabis-based therapies.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market include:
- Avicanna Inc
- Aurora Cannabis Inc.
- Celadon Pharmaceuticals Plc
- Jazz Pharmaceuticals
- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Brand
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Growing acceptance of cannabis in healthcare
- Demand for safer, alternative treatments
- More research on cannabis benefits
- Rising need for chronic disease management
- Restraints
- Complex and inconsistent regulations
- Limited long-term research on efficacy
- Challenges in standardizing dosing
- Opportunities
- Developing targeted cannabis therapies
- Collaborating across pharmaceutical and cannabis sectors
- Using advanced tech in research and production
- Educating patients and providers about cannabis use
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market, By Brand, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Sativex
- Epidiolex
- Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market, By Brand, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape Analysis
- Company Profiles
- Avicanna Inc
- Aurora Cannabis Inc.
- Celadon Pharmaceuticals Plc
- Jazz Pharmaceuticals
- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market