Federal trademark registrations are now possible to obtain for some hemp-related trademarks. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) recent guidance, Examination Guide 1-19 “Examination of Marks for Cannabis and Cannabis-Related Goods and Services after Enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill” issued on May 2, 2019 (Guide 1-19), clarifies the procedure for examining applications for marks covering cannabis and cannabis-derived goods and services in light of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. 115-334 (also known as the “2018 Farm Bill”). Guide 1-19 does not change the requirements for obtaining a trademark registration, but instead explains that hemp-related federal trademark registrations (in certain instances) are not barred as a matter of law.
Continue Reading USPTO Allows Hemp-related Trademarks on or after December 20, 2018
Robert Terzoli
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FDA Approves First Marijuana-Based Drug to Treat Epilepsy
Posted in Medical Marijuana
On June 25, 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approved Epidiolex (cannabidiol), the first marijuana derived drug for use in the United States, to treat two rare forms of epilepsy. This decision for the FDA could have sweeping effects for the marijuana industry. While the FDA has previously approved drugs comprising synthetic (manufactured) cannabinoids, this is the first FDA approved drug comprised of an active ingredient derived from marijuana. Even with FDA approval, further action is required before Epidiolex can enter the market in the United States.
Continue Reading FDA Approves First Marijuana-Based Drug to Treat Epilepsy