Pharma 5 Laboratories launches Morocco's first cannabis-derived medication for drug-resistant epilepsy

Pharma 5 Laboratories held a press conference in Casablanca on Thursday, November 12, 2026, to announce the launch of a new epilepsy medication. The product, named Cannabidiol Pharma 5, is a generic solution based on Cannabidiol (CBD) with a purity level exceeding 98%. According to officials, the medication began marketing on November 9, 2026, and is currently available in Moroccan pharmacies.

Development and Production Standards

The development of the new drug followed five years of research and development, representing a total investment exceeding 200 million MAD. The production process utilizes supercritical CO2 extraction technology to ensure high quality. Abdelmoumen Mahli, the Director of Research and Innovation at Pharma 5 Laboratories, stated that the CBD used meets European Pharmacopoeia and international quality standards.

The project is part of a broader regulated cannabis sector in Morocco. It involves the cultivation of over 40 hectares of cannabis in the Rif region and has processed more than 100 tons of biomass according to pharmaceutical standards. This initiative supports 70 local families integrated into the regulated cannabis sector. The project was carried out in cooperation with several entities, including the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities, the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products, and the Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health.

Impact on Patient Care

The new medication targets patients suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy. In Morocco, it is estimated that there are between 400,000 and 500,000 epilepsy patients, with approximately one-third suffering from drug-resistant forms. This equates to an estimated 100,000 patients in need of specialized treatment.

Medical officials noted that the drug may reduce seizure frequency for 50% of patients, while seizures may disappear completely for 10% to 15% of patients. For patients seeking more affordable options, the drug's price is 50% lower than the reference original drug. Mehdi Mohammed Abdelmoumen, the Director of Research and Development at Pharmasanki, confirmed that the drug has received marketing authorization from the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products.

Future Outlook

This initiative is part of Morocco's efforts to strengthen national health sovereignty and add value to its natural resources. Mia Lahlou El Filali, the General Manager of Pharma 5 Laboratories, said the drug is a major advancement for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy and embodies Morocco's ambition for health sovereignty.

Looking forward, the company plans to export the drug to African and Middle Eastern countries once domestic demand has been met. The project operates under the legal framework established by Law No. 13-21 regarding the legal uses of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes.

Glossary

• Law No. 13-21 — Law No. 13-21 is a legal framework regarding the legal uses of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes. It establishes the regulations under which these uses are permitted.
• Cannabidiol (CBD) — Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid and one of 113 identified cannabinoids in Cannabis. Medically, it is an anticonvulsant used to treat two rare forms of childhood epilepsy.