Why Is Medical Marijuana So Expensive?

The price of medical cannabis in Canada has dropped significantly in recent years, making it more affordable for patients. What used to cost between $200 and $320 an ounce has now come down to around $120 to $240. While it’s still not cheap, it’s a big improvement, making legal, high-quality cannabis more accessible.

One reason for the drop is the legalization of recreational cannabis, which has shifted the market. Canadians can now grow up to four plants at home, increasing access. However, homegrown cannabis doesn’t compare to the quality of a GrowLegally designated grower or a Health Canada-approved licensed supplier. Medical cannabis goes through strict quality control to ensure consistency and safety, something home cultivation can't always guarantee.

Medical cannabis is still more expensive than recreational products due to the high standards producers must meet. Licensed facilities follow pharmaceutical-grade regulations, ensuring controlled environments, extensive testing, and strict oversight. This level of quality requires specialized equipment, expert staff, and rigorous compliance, all of which add to the cost.

Every batch of medical cannabis is lab-tested for pesticides, mold, bacteria, and heavy metals. This ensures patient safety but also increases expenses. On top of that, the supply chain, distribution, and taxation contribute to the overall price. Unlike many prescription drugs that are tax-exempt, medical cannabis is still subject to excise taxes, making it more expensive.

Despite these costs, medical cannabis remains the best option for patients needing consistent, high-quality products. Many providers offer discounts for veterans, seniors, and low-income patients, so it's worth exploring different suppliers to find the best price.

The good news is that there’s ongoing advocacy to lower costs, with efforts to expand tax breaks and insurance coverage. In the meantime, if you need help accessing medical cannabis, GrowLegally is here for you. Contact us today to learn more or visit our website at GrowLegally.ca

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