Avicanna Subsidiary SMGH Exports Aureus Branded CBD and CBG Into Paraguay

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna Subsidiary SMGH Exports Aureus Branded CBD and CBG Into Paraguay
This marks the 17th international market for Aureus branded products and 20th market for all Avicanna

TORONTO, July 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialisation of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce that through its majority owned subsididery Santa Marta Golden Hemp the Company has completed the commercial export of aureus branded products into Paraguay.

The commercial export included Aureus branded purified Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG) which is a part of the company’s portfolio of cannabinoid active pharmaceutical ingredients). This transaction also marks the 17th international market for Aureus branded products and 20th market for all Avicanna products which further demonstrates the company’s capabilities in navigating complex regulatory processes for its commercialization efforts internationally.

About Aureus™

Avicanna’s supply chain business unit is based in Santa Marta, Colombia and provides a consistent source of cannabinoid raw materials for the global marketplace with GACP and USDA organic ceritications. These include active pharmaceutical ingredients and feminized seeds, for Avicanna’s cosmetic, medical, and pharmaceutical products, in addition to supplying the company’s partners around the world.

Aureus-branded products are cultivated, extracted, and manufactured by Avicanna’s subsidiaries in Colombia where they leverage optimal environmental conditions to produce cannabinoid active pharmaceutical ingredients economically and sustainably and include a range of extracts of CBD, THC and rare cannabinoids such as CBG.

To its knowledge, the Company carries out its operations in compliance with all applicable laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

  • Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.

  • MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is expected to launch during August 2023 and will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement. 

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f28e7282-ef7e-4002-8da7-c61b15887c11

Avicanna Provides Corporate Update and Preliminary Q2 Results

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna Provides Corporate Update and Preliminary Q2 Results

TORONTO, June 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialisation of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce a corporate update and preliminary financial results of Q2-2023. 

  • Q2-2023 Revenues: Q2-2023 revenues of approximately $3.3M representing an approximately 200% increase over Q1-2023 revenues of $1.2M, this includes approximately $2.5M in sales arising from the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers platform since May 29, 2023.
  • Medical Cannabis By Shoppers: On May 29, 2023, the Company announced that the definitive Asset Purchase Agreement with Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. for Avicanna to acquire the Medical Cannabis By Shoppers business was fully executed. On May 4, 2023, Avicanna announced the execution of the definitive Master Service Agreement with Northern Green Canada (“NGC”). NGC is a Canadian licensed producer that is tasked with providing logistics and fulfilment services for Avicanna’s online cannabis care platform (MyMedi.ca). On May 29, 2023, NGC and Avicanna successfully transitioned the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers inventory and fulfilment services to NGC.
  • MyMedi.ca: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that will be made available nationwide on August 1, 2023. MyMedi.ca will be offering a portfolio of 200+ product SKUs from 20+ selected brands, including four of Avicanna’s brands and 25+ of Avicanna’s product SKUs, as well as pharmacist led, bi-lingual services and patient support programs. Additionally, MyMedi.ca will be providing adjudication and reimbursement services from public and private payers to a significant proportion of the current active patients.
  • Commercial Priority: The Canadian market continues to be the Company’s focus, where Avicanna has commercialized 25+ product SKUs through four different brands. Currently, Avicanna has 113 commercial listings as we near the end of Q2-2023; with 61 commercial listings on four national medical cannabis channels and 52 product listings on six provincial adult use channels. This represents a 34% increase over the 84 commercial listings in Q4-2022.
  • Proprietary SEDDS Capsules: On June 25, 2023, Avicanna announced the expansion of the Strategic Manufacturing Agreement with MediPharm Labs Corp. (“MediPharm”), adding the manufacturing and commercialization of Company’s proprietary SEDDS capsules. Avicanna’s proprietary SEDDS capsules are to be manufactured by MediPharm to GPP and GMP standards to meet product channel requirements in Canadian and international markets. The capsules are expected to be launched under the RHO Phyto brand in Canadian medical cannabis channels during the second half of 2023.
  • Global Cost Reduction Initiatives: In 2021, the Company initiated optimization efforts to actively decrease operating costs including; rationalization of redundancies in human resources, divestment of non-core underperforming assets, and reduction of outside service fees. These combined efforts resulted in the Company’s lowest Q1-2023 operating expenses since 2019. Management continue to take steps to further improve the Company’s working capital and financial position.

Join Avicanna’s management who are providing a corporate update on June 28th at 12 p.m. ET.

Click Here to Register for Avicanna’s Corporate Update Webinar

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

  • Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.
  • MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is expected to launch during August 2023 and will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes, without limitation, statements related to the services to be provided by MyMedi.ca, the production of Avicanna’s proprietary SEDDS capsules, the opinions or beliefs of management and future business goals. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

This news release contained future-oriented financial information (“FOFI”) about Avicanna’s projected Q2-2023 revenue, which is subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations and qualifications as set forth in the above paragraphs. The actual results of Avicanna and the resulting financial results will likely vary from the amounts set forth herein and such variation may be  material.  Avicanna  and  its  management  believe  that  the  FOFI  has  been  prepared  on  a  reasonable  basis,  reflecting management’s best estimates and judgments. However, because this information is subjective and subject to numerous risks, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Except as required by applicable securities laws, Avicanna undertakes no obligation to update such FOFI. FOFI contained in this news release was made as of the date of this news release and was provided for purposes of providing further information about Avicanna’s anticipated future business operations. Readers are cautioned that the FOFI contained in this news release should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

Avicanna and Medipharm Labs Expand Strategic Manufacturing Agreement for Avicanna’s Proprietary SEDDS Technology Capsules for Canadian and International markets

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna and Medipharm Labs Expand Strategic Manufacturing Agreement for Avicanna’s Proprietary SEDDS Technology Capsules for Canadian and International markets
Avicanna’s proprietary SEDDS technology capsules are designed for enhanced and rapid absorption of cannabinoids.

Avicanna and Medipharm intend to commercialize various formulations of Avicanna’s proprietary SEDDS technology capsules across Canadian adult use, medical and international channels.

TORONTO, June 26th, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialisation of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce the extension of its existing strategic manufacturing agreement with Medipharm Labs Inc. (“MediPharm”) for the commercialization of Avicanna’s proprietary cannabinoid-based Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (“SEDDS”) technology capsules for the Canadian and international markets. 

“We are happy to be advancing our proprietary SEDDs technology capsules to the market with MediPharm, who have demonstrated focus, alignment and the necessary capabilities to manufacture and deliver these products across a number of markets and channels. We are excited about the potential of our proprietary single-dose formulations in both medical and pharmaceutical cannabinoid segments” stated Aras Azadian, CEO of Avicanna.

Canadian commercialization under Good Production Practices (“GPP”)

Under the expanded Strategic Manufacturing Agreement, Avicanna intends to commercialize its proprietary SEDDS technology capsules, under the RHO Phyto brand, across domestic nation-wide medical channels including the Avicanna’s MyMedi.ca online cannabis care platform and MediPharm’s Canna farms platform.  Additionally, MediPharm intends to commercialize the capsules across adult use wellness channels under its MediPharm Labs brand.

International and pharmaceutical potential under Good Manufacturing Practices (“GMP”)

MediPharm intends to manufacture these proprietary capsules in accordance with GMP standards to fulfill domestic and international pharmaceutical standards. The expanded Strategic Manufacturing Agreement provides that each of Avicanna and MediPharm may take steps towards offering these products internationally through existing internal infrastructure and externally with parties under contract.

About the SEDDS capsules

Due to the highly lipophilic nature and poor water-solubility of cannabinoids, the formulations currently available in the Canadian market have been generally described as having poor absorption and high variability of onset. SEDDS oral delivery systems offer an effective route for non-invasive and non-inhalation administration of cannabinoids1-4. Avicanna’s proprietary SEDDS technology demonstrated shelf-life stability with more than 90% of the total cannabinoid(s) remaining after 6 months in accelerated conditions. The formulation’s CBD and THC dissolution profiles were also tested in biorelevant media which mimic human intestinal fluid and demonstrated more than 90% dispersion within one hour with continued stabilization of the emulsion. The company plans to advance specific formulations into pre-clinical and clinical development.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

  • Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™):The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.
  • MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is expected to launch during August 2023 and will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

References:

  1. Maji, et al.,, Solid self emulsifying drug delivery system: Superior mode for oral delivery of hydrophobic cargos. Journal of Controlled Release, 337, 2021;646-660.
  2. Salawi A. Self-emulsifying drug delivery systems: a novel approach to deliver drugs. Drug Deliv. 2022 Dec;29(1):1811-1823.
  3. Khaled, A.; Ayat, A. A.; Mahmoud, E.-B., Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems: Easy to Prepare Multifunctional Vectors for Efficient Oral Delivery. In Current and Future Aspects of Nanomedicine, Islam Ahmed Hamed, K., Ed. IntechOpen: Rijeka, 2019; p Ch. 4
  4. Pathak, Ashish Kumar et al. “Recent advances in self emulsifying drug delivery system – A review.” Drug Invention Today (2010): 123-129.

Avicanna Sponsors New Medical Cannabis Education and Training Campaign in Canada with the Canadian Consortium for the Investigation of Cannabinoids (“CCIC”)

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna Sponsors New Medical Cannabis Education and Training Campaign in Canada with the Canadian Consortium for the Investigation of Cannabinoids (“CCIC”)

Through a sponsorship agreement CCIC’s accredited Canadian Cannabis Syllabus will be made available to the medical community

TORONTO, June 22, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company”) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN), a commercial stage, international biopharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of evidence-based, cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a sponsorship agreement with the Canadian Consortium for the Investigation of Cannabinoids (“CCIC”) to sponsor CICC in making available and providing access to the Canadian Cannabis Syllabus (“CCS”), continuing education course accredited by the University of Calgary’s Office of Continuing Medical Education and Professional Development, available to the Canadian medical community. 

“We are proud to be sponsoring CCIC who have championed the advancement of evidence-based research and education on the endocannabinoid system in Canada. In line with the launch of MyMedi.ca and our commitment to advance medical cannabis access, we believe that the CCS can be an effective tool to provide education for healthcare providers and provide information to support the adoption of medical cannabis by the medical community,” stated Dr. Karolina Urban, EVP of Medical Affairs at Avicanna Inc.

“The CCIC is excited to develop this relationship with Avicanna as it will help to ensure the dissemination of accurate, scientifically valid and vetted information regarding the biology of cannabis and how it impacts the human body, potential therapeutic approaches that cannabis and cannabinoid products could be leveraged for with respect to specific disease states and putative health risks associated with cannabis use and the development of cannabis use disorder,” stated Dr. Matthew Hill, CCIC Executive Director

Through the sponsorship agreement the CCS will be offered to healthcare providers interested in learning more about medical cannabis as a part of their practice. The CCS provides foundational knowledge and considerations for all healthcare professionals interested in learning more about cannabis and cannabinoid products in clinical practice. The course consists of 9 modules including:

  • Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System
  • Cannabis Basics
  • Long-term Health Issues Associated with Cannabis
  • Clinical Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Pain (3 modules)
  • Clinical Use of Cannabis in Non-pain Conditions
  • Considerations when Authorizing Cannabis
  • Acute Adverse Effects, Drug Interactions and Contraindications of Cannabis
  • Cannabis Use Disorder
  • Cannabis Policy in Canada

About the CCIC
The CCIC is a federally registered Canadian not-for-profit corporation of basic and clinical researchers, health care professionals and educators that promotes research and evidence-based education concerning the endocannabinoid system, the therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, the potential harms associated with cannabis use and the health and societal impacts of non-medical cannabis use. For more information, please visit https://ccic.net.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a Canadian commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on research, development, and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid products for medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform and intellectual property portfolio that has contributed to the international commercialization of over thirty products across various market segments:

  • Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.
  • MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is expected to launch during August 2023 and will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea2b5dd1-34f6-478a-966c-ca51003b81df

Avicanna and Langara College Announce Cannabinoid-Based Translational Research Collaboration and NSERC Grant

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna and Langara College Announce Cannabinoid-Based Translational Research Collaboration and NSERC Grant
This Research Collaboration will be led by Dr. Jessica Kalra’s research team and focus on characterization of Avicanna’s proprietary products and drug pipeline formulations.

This Research Collaboration has awarded a two-year grant by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

TORONTO, June 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company”) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN), a commercial stage, international biopharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of evidence-based, cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce that it has entered a research collaboration with the Applied Research Centre at Langara College that will focus on Avicanna’s proprietary formulations and pharmaceutical pipeline. This research collaboration has been awarded a peer-reviewed grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Applied Research and Development Grant for a period of two years starting Q2 2023. 

Dr. Jessica Kalra’s group at the Applied Research Centre at Langara College will be collaborating with Avicanna’s R&D team to perform expand in vitro and in vivo research of the company’s drug delivery systems and commercial formulations including under the RHO Phyto™ brand. The outcomes of the research collaboration would look to gaining a better understanding of the absorption, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the formulations, which may contribute towards product pipeline developments.

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Dr. Kalra’s group and look forward to create a deeper understanding of our proprietary cannabinoid formulations which may yield advancements in our drug candidates.” Dr. Frantz Le Devedec, EVP of R&D at Avicanna.

“It is a very exciting time to be researching non-psychoactive pharmaceutically relevant cannabinoids, their impact on the body and how they can be best formulated to provide optimal therapeutic activity. Our team is delighted to have this opportunity to work with Avicanna to support the translation of cannabinoids from bench to bedside.” stated Dr. Kalra.

Dr. Kalra, is a Research Scientist in the Applied Research Centre at Langara College, an Assistant Professor of Teaching in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical at the University of British Columbia, and a Staff Scientist in the department of Experimental Therapeutics at the British Columbia Cancer Research Centre. Dr. Kalra’s has over 20 years of experience in drug discovery, cell and molecular research including evaluating drug efficacy in various in vitro and in vivo models and developing novel nanoparticle formulations to address challenges to drug delivery that stems from heterogeneity of disease and/or solubility and lipophilicity of drug entities. The research team has expertise in formulation science and cell and tissue culture that supports the analysis of novel drug entities from a chemical and in vitro biology perspective.

About Langara College
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College provides university-level education to more than 19,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path. Langara is also known as snəw̓eyəɬ leləm, ‘house of teachings’, a name given to it by Musqueam, on whose unceded traditional territory the College is located.

About Avicanna Inc.
Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

• Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.

• Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.

• MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is expected to launch during August 2023 and will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected
For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Shoppers Drug Mart and Avicanna Execute Definitive Asset Purchase Agreement for Avicanna’s Acquisition of the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers Business

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Shoppers Drug Mart and Avicanna Execute Definitive Asset Purchase Agreement for Avicanna’s Acquisition of the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers Business

TORONTO, May 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce the execution of the definitive Asset Purchase Agreement (“Agreement”) between Shoppers Drug Mart® (“Shoppers”) and Avicanna for Avicanna’s acquisition of assets of the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers business (“Business”) with a final closing date set for July 31, 2023. 

“Since the initial announcement in March 2023, we have worked diligently and collaboratively to develop and execute a seamless process for transitioning patients, and address various patient, product and operations matters through the buildout of MyMedi.ca. We wish to express our thanks to everyone involved, and in particular to the Shoppers Drug Mart team, for getting us to this exciting milestone,” stated Aras Azadian, CEO of Avicanna Inc.

As part of the Agreement’s terms, Avicanna will acquire specific assets of the Business, including inventory and equipment, for approximately $2.6M and will pay Shoppers an earn out, based on net revenues, for a period of two years. During the transition period, patients of Medical Cannabis by Shoppers are still able to purchase products on the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers platform until the closing of the transaction at the end of July. The MyMedi.ca platform will be launched on the closing date of the transaction, at which point, patients may make purchases through MyMedi.ca.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

• Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto™): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.

• Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.

• MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca will feature diverse and scientifically curated products from leading Canadian licensed producers in addition to pharmacist led patient support programs and educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens. MyMedi.ca is also providing specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborating with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement. 

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022
SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.
The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2022, filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Avicanna Announces Results of Annual General and Special Meeting and Provides Corporate Update

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna Announces Results of Annual General and Special Meeting and Provides Corporate Update

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN ‎THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A ‎VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAWS

TORONTO, May 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company”) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN), a commercial stage, international biopharmaceutical company focused on the development ‎advancement, and commercialization of evidence-based, cannabinoid-based products‎, is pleased to announce that all of management’s nominees listed in the Company’s management information circular dated April 14, 2023 (the “Circular”) were elected as directors of the Company at Avicanna’s annual general and special meeting of shareholders held on May 17, 2023 (the “Meeting”).
The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors held at the Meeting are set out below.

Name of Nominee

Votes cast 

FOR

% votes cast

FOR

Votes

WITHHELD

% votes

WITHHELD

Dr. Chandrakant Panchal

21,211,596

92.74

1,661,188

7.26

Aras Azadian

22,699,137

99.24

173,647

0.76

Giancarlo Davila Char

22,706,191

99.27

166,593

0.73

Eileen McCormack

22,826,079

99.80

46,705

0.20

John McVicar

22,702,791

99.26

169,993

0.74

At the Meeting, the Company’s shareholders also approved:

(i) fixing the number of directors for the ensuing year at five and empowering the board of directors of the Company to adjust such number between shareholder meetings by way of resolution in accordance with the Company’s constating documents;

(ii) the reappointment of Kingston Ross Pasnak LLP as the Company’s auditors for the ensuing year and authorized the board of directors to fix the auditors’ remuneration;

(iii) on a disinterested basis, the amendment of 136,250 common share purchase warrants held by ThreeD Capital Inc. (the “Insider Warrants”) to reprice the Insider Warrants from the previous exercise price of $1.10 per Common Share to $0.55 per Common Share, and extend the expiry date of the Insider Warrants from January 28, 2025 to January 28, 2026;

(iv) the name change of the Company to such name as the board of directors, in its discretion, may resolve and as may be acceptable to regulatory authorities, if required; and

(v) on a disinterested basis, the Company’s proposed early warrant exercise incentive program and participation of certain insiders of the Company therein, as more particularly described in the Circular (the “Incentive Program”).

Early Warrant Exercise Incentive Program

The Incentive Program is applicable to all of the issued and outstanding common share purchase warrants having an exercise price of $0.40 (the ‎‎“Warrants”). The Incentive Program is designed to encourage the early exercise of the Warrants during ‎a 7-day period (the “Program Period”) which will commence on May 18, 2023.‎

Under the Incentive Program, holders of the Warrants (the “Warrantholders”) will be entitled to receive ‎one-half (0.5) of one new warrant (each whole warrant, an “Incentive Warrant”) upon the exercise of ‎each Warrant during the Incentive Period. Each Incentive Warrant will be exercisable into one common ‎share of Avicanna at a price of $0.50 per share for a period of three years from the date of issuance.‎

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Incentive Program for general working capital ‎purposes.‎

The Company anticipates that certain Warrantholders who are insiders of the Company may wish to ‎participate in the Incentive Program. Pursuant to the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange, ‎disinterested shareholder approval was required for insiders to participate in the Incentive Program. The ‎board of directors of Avicanna approved the terms of the Incentive Program and the disinterested shareholders of the Company approved the Incentive Program and participation of insiders therein at the Meeting. The Incentive Program is subject to the receipt of all ‎required regulatory approvals and consents, including approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Avicanna has determined that while the Incentive Program may be a related party transaction pursuant to ‎Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”), Avicanna is not required to obtain a ‎formal valuation under subsection 5.4(1) of MI 61-101 or minority approval under subsection 5.7(1)(a) of ‎MI 61-101 because pursuant to the exemptions set forth in MI 61-101, neither the fair market value nor ‎the fair market value of the consideration paid for the Warrants exceeds 25% of the Company’s market ‎capitalization.‎

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products: Marketed under the RHO Phyto™ brand these medical and wellness products are a line of pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoid products containing varying ratios of cannabidiol (“CBD”) and tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”). The product portfolio contains a full formulary of products including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries that have controlled dosing, enhanced absorption and stability studies supported by pre-clinical data. The formulary is marketed with consumer, patient and medical-community education and training.

Pharmaceutical Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has created a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit www.avicanna.com, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

If you are a Healthcare Professional and would like to learn more about using medical cannabis in your practice, please visit Avicenna Academy.

The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified by the use of words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes, without limitation, statements related to the Incentive Program, including the timing and commencement thereof, the participation of insiders therein, the use of proceeds of the Incentive Program, the receipt of all approvals of the Toronto Stock Exchange in connection with the Incentive Program, statements with respect to the Company’s future business operations, the opinions or beliefs of management and future business goals. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2023 and final short form prospectus dated November 27, 2020, filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Avicanna Reports Q1 2023 Financial Statement

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna Reports Q1 2023 Financial Statement

TORONTO, May 16, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company”) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce the filing of interim financial statements for the three-month period ending March 31, 2023 (“Q1 2023”).

Aras Azadian, CEO, stated, “We are pleased to report on our continued progress related to our optimization of operations in addition to Canadian commercialization during the first quarter of 2023. We have achieved operational efficiencies that enable us to now focus on scaling our revenues, which we expect to be growing during 2023 through our Canadian and international efforts.” 

Q1 2023 highlights:

  • Shoppers Drug Mart partnership to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers to Avicanna. On March 28, 2023, Shoppers Drug Mart and the Company announced that Shoppers Drug Mart will transition the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers business to Avicanna. As part of the transition, Avicanna will introduce MyMedi.ca, a new medical cannabis care platform.
  • Financial highlights: Revenue of $1.2 million, an increase of 13% over the first quarter of 2022. On-going cost saving initiatives resulted in a 13% decrease in general and administrative expenses. These improvements resulted in a 22% improvement in adjusted EBITDA over the last quarter.
  • Progress in Canadian commercialization efforts. The Company continued its expansion efforts related Canadian product offerings that now includes 25 commercial SKUs and furthering 117 commercial listings across medical and provincial channels in Canada.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products: Marketed under the RHO Phyto™ brand these medical and wellness products are a line of pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoid products containing varying ratios of cannabidiol (“CBD”) and tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”). The product portfolio contains a full formulary of products including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries that have controlled dosing, enhanced absorption and stability studies supported by pre-clinical data. The formulary is marketed with consumer, patient and medical-community education and training.

Pharmaceutical Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has created a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit www.avicanna.com, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com  or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified by the use of words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes, without limitation, statements related to the Offering, the use of the proceeds of the Offering, the receipt of all approvals of the Toronto Stock Exchange in connection with the Offering[NTD: Include any forward looking statement that may be contained in the corporate update.], statements with respect to the Company’s future business operations, the opinions or beliefs of management and future business goals. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2022 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Avicanna and Northern Green Canada Execute Master Service Agreement to Operationalize MyMedi.ca

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers

Avicanna and Northern Green Canada Execute Master Service Agreement to Operationalize MyMedi.ca

MyMedi.ca to provide Medical Cannabis by Shoppers patients a complete medical cannabis care platform including curated products and services.

NGC will facilitate inventory management and fulfillment through its EU GMP-certified and Health Canada licensed infrastructure starting Q2, 2023.

TORONTO, May 4, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Master Service Agreement (“MSA”) with Northern Green Canada (“NGC”) a federally-licensed EU GMP-certified cannabis producer to operationalize MyMedi.ca medical cannabis care platform’s logistics and fulfilment infrastructure.

Through the MSA, NGC will provide the MyMedi.ca medical cannabis care platform with regulatory support and access to appropriate Health Canada licenses in addition to services related to inventory management and quality assurance. NGC will also contribute to the MyMedi.ca medical cannabis care platform’s formulary of products with its own EU GMP-certified proprietary genetics and finished products.

“We look forward to working with NGC to support patients in their journey and grow our medical cannabis care platform,” said Aras Azadian, CEO, Avicanna. “NGC’s established infrastructure and quality assurance expertise gives us confidence that they are the right choice as we aim to build upon the foundation initially developed by the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers team and further establish confidence in medical cannabis solutions by providing education, expanding coverage, and striving towards increased consistency in services.” 

“NGC has established a solid international footprint into the medicinal cannabis space, and we are thrilled to partner with Avicanna to expand our domestic business to reach more patients in Canada,” said Lisa McCormack, Northern Green Canada’s President, and CEO.

Shoppers Drug Mart® (“Shoppers”) has partnered with Avicanna, to transition its Medical Cannabis by Shoppers business and provide its patients access to a complete medical cannabis platform through MyMedi.ca. With the support of NGC, Avicanna is establishing MyMedi.ca as a comprehensive resource to support the medical community and the tens of thousands of patients currently authorized to access the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers platform.

Since the initial announcement between Shoppers and Avicanna, the Company has been coordinating with all stakeholders including the medical community, specialty clinics and leading Canadian licensed producers to ensure continuation of care for existing patients as they transition to MyMedi.ca. Additionally, Shoppers and Avicanna have collaborated to develop a seamless process related to the patient consent and transfer that will minimize effort required by patients and their healthcare providers.

To its knowledge, the Company carries out its operations in compliance with all applicable laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates.

About MyMedi.ca

MyMedi.ca is Avicanna’s medical cannabis care platform that is formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients’ needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca will feature scientifically curated products, patient support programs and educational resources to support the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

  • Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products:Marketed under the RHO Phyto™ brand these medical and wellness products are a line of pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoid products containing varying ratios of cannabidiol (“CBD”) and tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”). The product portfolio contains a full formulary of products including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries that have controlled dosing, enhanced absorption and stability studies supported by pre-clinical data. The formulary is marketed with consumer, patient and medical-community education and training.
  • Pharmaceutical Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has created a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicanna’s first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox™) is in the drug registration stage in South America.
  • MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care Portal: An online platform designed to provide access to medical cannabis and enhance the patient journey through focus on patient education in areas such as harm reduction, providing specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and reimbursement services for public and private providers.  MyMedi.ca has pharmacist-led patient support programs and comprehensive training programs for the medical community along with a scientifically curated and diverse formulary of products with competitive pricing in collaboration with Canadian licensed producers.

Click to watch Avicanna’s Corporate Video 2022

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

About Northern Green Canada Inc.

Northern Green Canada Inc. is a leading Canadian cannabis company supplying premium quality products to international and domestic markets. A federally licensed and EU GMP-certified producer of medical cannabis, the company operates out of a world-class facility focused on growing high quality cannabis and providing pharmaceutical-grade medications for a better quality of life.  Northern Green currently ships a carefully curated portfolio of therapeutic cannabis products to more than 20 global partners while concurrently servicing our domestic patient base. Our product development team, along with our global partners, is developing pharmaceutical products that make it easier for patients to benefit from the use of medical cannabis. Through education, research, and development, we advance the cultivation and science of medical cannabis. NGC is committed to a positive future by producing its products with minimal waste and environmental impact. Find more information on our website www.northerngreencanada.com or contact Mary Mill by email at mmill@northerngreencanada.com

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2022, filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers

Shoppers Drug Mart partners with Avicanna to transition Medical Cannabis by Shoppers
Avicanna to introduce MyMedi.ca to medical cannabis patients across Canada

TORONTO, March 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Avicanna Inc. (“Avicanna” or the “Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce that Shoppers Drug Mart® (“Shoppers”) has selected Avicanna as its partner to transition its Medical Cannabis by Shoppers business. Shoppers will continue to support patients throughout the transfer of assets and services to Avicanna, which it anticipates will take place over the next three months.

First launched in Ontario in January 2019, Medical Cannabis by Shoppers provides patients access to medical cannabis products from more than 30 licensed cannabis brands. Over the past four years, the platform has supported tens of thousands of patients, and has worked with patient groups to make access to medical cannabis easier.

“We are grateful for the trust placed in us by our medical cannabis patients over the past few years, and are confident we’ve found the right partner in Avicanna to continue to support them,” said Jeff Leger, President, Shoppers Drug Mart. “As we move away from medical cannabis distribution, we remain firm in our belief that this medication should be dispensed in pharmacies like all others and will continue our advocacy to that end.”

As part of the transition, Avicanna will introduce MyMedi.ca, a new medical cannabis care platform designed to enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca will have pharmacist-led patient support programs and aims to provide a similar product portfolio including various formats, brands, and competitive pricing.

“We are thankful to be selected as the partner for this transition and look forward to introducing MyMedi.ca, with a view towards supporting patients and facilitating continuity of care,” said Aras Azadian, CEO, Avicanna. “We are motivated towards furthering the work started by Shoppers to create Canada’s leading independent, comprehensive medical cannabis platform and continuing our efforts towards advancing access to medical cannabis and its long-term incorporation into the standard of care.”

With initial transitional support from the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers team, MyMedi.ca will provide a scientifically curated and diverse formulary of products in collaboration with Canadian licensed producers, and comprehensive training programs for the medical community. The online medical portal will also focus on patient education in areas such as harm reduction and will continue to provide specialty services to distinct patient groups including veterans in addition to reimbursement services for public and private providers. 

About Shoppers Drug Mart Inc.
Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. is one of the most recognized and trusted names in Canadian retailing. The company is the licensor of full-service retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart® (Pharmaprix® in Québec). With almost 1,350 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores operating in prime locations in each province and two territories, the company is one of the most convenient retailers in Canada. The company also licenses or owns 47 medical clinic pharmacies operating under the name Shoppers Simply Pharmacy® (Pharmaprix Simplement Santé® in Québec). As well, the company owns and operates 43 corporate Wellwise by Shoppers Drug Mart™ stores and an ecommerce site Wellwise.ca, making it the largest Canadian retailer of home health care products and services. In addition to its retail store network, the company owns Shoppers Drug Mart Specialty Health Network Inc., a provider of specialty drug distribution, pharmacy and comprehensive patient support services, MediSystem Inc., a provider of pharmaceutical products and services to long-term care facilities and Lifemark Health Group, Canada’s leading provider of outpatient physiotherapy, massage therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic, mental health, and other ancillary rehabilitation services. Shoppers Drug Mart is an independent operating division of Loblaw Companies Limited.

About Avicanna
Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:
• Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products: Marketed under the RHO Phyto™ brand these medical and wellness products are a line of proprietary cannabinoid products containing varying ratios of cannabinoids. The full formulary of products includes oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal product formats with controlled dosing, enhanced absorption and supported by pre-clinical data. The formulary is marketed with, patient and medical-community education and training.
• Pharmaceutical Pipeline: Leveraging Avicanna’s scientific platform, Avicanna has developed a pipeline of proprietary drug candidates that are aimed at specific medical indications and are in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders.

www.avicanna.com

For more information:
Avicanna: IR@avicanna.com
Loblaw: PR@loblaw.ca

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit www.avicanna.com, contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook or Instagram .
The Company posts updates through videos from the official Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “likely”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “project”, “estimate”, “outlook” and other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Company’s annual information form dated March 31, 2022, filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.