Medical marijuana is no longer a dirty word; it's a discussion taking place in the household, hospitals, and even government chambers. Folks are wondering: can marijuana actually be used to treat pain, anxiety, or chronic disease? The answer isn't so simple, but it's certainly worth a look. In this blog, let us discuss what medical marijuana is, how it works, and why it’s important in today’s medicine.
Medical marijuana is the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts for treating illnesses. Doctors recommend it to ease pain, nausea, anxiety, or muscle cramps. Unlike recreational marijuana, it’s used only for medical purposes under professional guidance.
As of 2024, the legal marijuana market reached USD 25.52 billion and is projected to grow at a strong CAGR of 24.8% from 2025 to 2034. The growth is gaining momentum, driven by advances in medical research, increased tax revenue, efforts to curb black-market activity, favorable government policies in the U.S. and Europe, and the growing number of patients with chronic diseases worldwide.
The legal marijuana market is dominated by big players who spearhead innovation, research, and international expansion. These are some of the leading players redefining this rapidly growing market.
Tilray Brands Inc.
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: New York City, USA
Key Offerings: A wide range of medical cannabis products, including dried flowers, oils, and capsules.
Tilray is one of the biggest names in the global medical marijuana market. The company has a significant presence in North America and Europe and manufactures cannabis of pharmaceutical grade for medical use. Tilray has diversified its medical cannabis business by acquiring companies such as Aphria Inc., thereby expanding its market presence and product offerings. The company is also operational in the cannabis pharmaceuticals market.
Canopy Growth Corporation
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada
Key Offerings: Medical cannabis products in the form of soft gels, tinctures, and vapes.
Canopy Growth is a pioneer in medical marijuana research and development of products. The company collaborates with pharmaceutical partners to investigate cannabis-based therapies. It is making significant investments in R&D to develop new cannabis therapies for patients.
Aurora Cannabis Inc.
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Edmonton, Canada
Key Offerings: A broad portfolio of medical cannabis products, including CBD oils and soft gels.
Aurora Cannabis Inc. is a licensed cannabis manufacturer based in Canada and a significant player in the medical marijuana market, known for its extensive cannabis farming and high-quality pharmaceutical products. With its eight licensed production sites, five sales permits, and operations across 25 countries, the company is recognized for its advanced cultivation methods that improve product quality.
Curaleaf Holdings Inc.
Founded: 2010
Headquarters: New York City, USA
Key Offerings: Medical cannabis products in the form of tinctures, vapes, and edibles.
Curaleaf is a leading U.S. cannabis firm, operating in both medical and recreational markets. It has dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and research centers throughout the nation. Curaleaf recently expanded into Europe with new medical cannabis products in Germany and the UK.
GW Pharmaceuticals
Founded: 1998
Headquarters: Cambridge, England, UK
Key Offerings: Sativex, a cannabis-derived spray for multiple sclerosis treatment
GW Pharmaceuticals plc, now a subsidiary of Jazz Pharmaceuticals, is a British biopharmaceutical company known for its work in cannabinoid science and medicine, particularly for developing and commercializing novel therapeutics from its proprietary cannabinoid product platform.
ABcann Medicinals, Inc.
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Napanee, Ontario, Canada
Key Offerings: Dried cannabis products and oils for medicinal purposes
ABcann Medicinals, Inc. is a medical cannabis licensed producer in Canada dedicated to supplying patients with high-quality, research-oriented cannabis products. The company prioritizes standardized production, clinical studies, and patient education to ensure safe and effective use of medical cannabis.
Aphria Inc.
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Leamington, Ontario, Canada
Key Offerings: Medical and recreational cannabis, oils, and edibles
Aphria Inc. is a Canadian cannabis corporation that specializes in the production of high-grade medical and recreational cannabis products. Aphria specializes in innovation, international expansion, and sustainable cultivation methods to meet the growing global demand for cannabis.
Cronos Group Inc.
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Key Offerings: Cannabis flower, oils, and hemp products
Cronos Group Inc. is a Canadian cannabis firm that specializes in the growth and distribution of medical and recreational cannabis products worldwide. Famed for its creativity and alliances with other companies, the firm seeks to advance cannabinoid research and expand its footprint in foreign markets.
Lexaria Corporation
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Key Offerings: Advanced drug delivery solutions, such as DehydraTECH™ for cannabis and other active ingredients
Lexaria Corporation is a Canadian company specializing in advanced drug-delivery solutions to improve the absorption and efficacy of cannabinoids and other bioactive molecules. The company specializes in research-backed innovations to enhance therapeutic benefits and broaden uses in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and consumer wellness industries.
Maricann Inc.
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Key Offerings: Medical cannabis products such as dried flower, oils, and edibles
Maricann Inc. is a licensed Canadian medical cannabis producer with an aim to deliver premium, consistent product to patients. The firm prioritizes ethical research, patient education, and sustainable growing practices to fuel the expanding medical cannabis market.
The medical cannabis market is growing fast. Research, innovation, and rising global demand are driving this change. Leading companies are making better cannabis products and developing treatments that help patients. With more legalization and ongoing research, the industry is poised to play a larger role in healthcare.