Member of the Bundestag Kristine Lütke (FDP) visited Grünhorn on October 24, 2024, to gain insights into the operations of the medical cannabis industry. Lütke, who played a key role in the decriminalization efforts, reviewed the current status and identified essential needs for further implementation.

• The Nuremberg-based FDP politician, specializing in health policy and herself a care entrepreneur, visited the Grünhorn Group in Leipzig, the associated cannabis wholesaler canymed GmbHas well as Grünhorn Pharmacy – one of the largest cannabis pharmacies in Germany.
• With 170 employees, Grünhorn is a significant employer in Leipzig, driving economic growth in Saxony through increasing patient numbers and a multiplied revenue stream.
• The cannabis industry demonstrates significant economic potential through VAT revenues, job creation, and the reintegration of workers into the workforce thanks to successful cannabis therapies, such as for chronic pain.

FDP’s Commitment to Cannabis Reform Ahead of the Federal Elections

The legalization of cannabis and the upcoming next step, known as Pillar 2, have become intensely debated topics in the lead-up to the federal elections. While some advocate for a rollback of partial legalization, others continue to push for its advancement.

Kristine Lütke commented during her recent visit to Grünhorn: "Following this important reform, we’re seeing initial positive outcomes and identifying areas for improvement. To address these, we are engaging in active dialogue with various stakeholders."

Matthias Fischer,CEO of canymed GmbH, part of the Grünhorn Group, praised the FDP’s role: "It is noteworthy that the law decriminalizing cannabis has been a success, thanks in part to Ms. Lütke’s expertise and contributions. This is a win for patients and physicians who now face fewer bureaucratic obstacles, as well as for the economy."

Stefan FritschCEO of the Grünhorn Group, added: "In 2023, we invested heavily in automation, R&D, and new personnel to prepare for partial legalization. Now, politics must remain bold: cut red tape and strengthen the economy!"

Integrating Cannabis into the Scientific Mainstream

During her visit to Grünhorn, Lütke explored areas for optimization in the medical cannabis process. At the pharmacy, staff demonstrated the rigorous steps and controls required in prescription processing and filling, tasks currently limited to licensed pharmacists. However, Germany’s pharmacist shortage is causing delays. Adjusting regulations to delegate certain tasks to other qualified professionals without a pharmaceutical degree could alleviate these delays. In the Grünhorn pharmacy’s research lab, Lütke discussed the importance of medical cannabis in scientific research with lab director Dr. Stephan Utgenannt. Grünhorn has conducted pioneering foundational studies, but much work remains after nearly a century of cannabis prohibition. "It’s crucial for cannabis therapy to become part of the university medical curriculum," said Dr. Utgenannt.

Grünhorn advocates for ongoing dialogue with political stakeholders to emphasize the importance of evidence-based cannabis therapies free from bureaucratic hurdles. Key Discussion Points:

• Pharmaceutical Quality:Medical cannabis is held to strict standards, including limits on microbial contaminants and the absence of mold, setting it apart from illicit street products. Policymakers must clearly distinguish between reputable medical companies and bad actors in public debates.
• Access and Education: Simplified access for doctors and patients is essential to prevent reliance on the black market. Increased education and studies on the efficacy of medical cannabis for common conditions, such as stress and sleep disorders, are vital to support this effort.
• Reducing Bureaucracy: Current procedures involve extensive manual checks, printouts, and protocols to process cannabis prescriptions, leading to delays in treatment. These requirements should be streamlined to improve efficiency.

* Study Reference: “Fiscal Effects of Cannabis Legalization in Germany” by Prof. Dr. Justus Haucap and Leon Knoke.