Legal status in Panama

Per-substance legal status for Panama, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice; drug laws change, so confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.

5 confirmed substances80 not individually verifiedLast updated July 14, 2026

Confirmed legal status

Cannabis / THC

Legal status: Cannabis recreational illegal — NO formal decrim threshold; small personal 'single dose' = discretionary lighter penalty (Art 320); medical legal (Law 242/2021); hemp/CBD ≤1% THC legal since Mar 2025
Consequences if caught: Cannabis is illegal for recreational use in Panama under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994) and the Penal Code. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026); hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Ley No. 23 of 1986 consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994 (OAS single text) + Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322 + Law 242 of 13 October 2021 + Decree 25 of 16 January 2024 + Law 464 of March 2025 · oas.org · gacetaoficial.gob.pa · minsa.gob.pa · Updated June 26, 2026

Cannabis / THC in Panama, full detail →

Cocaine

Legal status: Illegal under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (with Law 13/1994) + Penal Code — recreational illegal, NO decrim threshold; small personal 'single dose' = discretionary lighter penalty (Art 320); trafficking 10–15 years
Consequences if caught: Cocaine is illegal in Panama under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994) and the Penal Code. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Cocaine in Panama, full detail →

Heroin

Legal status: Illegal under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (with Law 13/1994) + Penal Code — recreational illegal, NO decrim threshold; small personal 'single dose' = discretionary lighter penalty (Art 320); trafficking 10–15 years
Consequences if caught: Heroin is illegal in Panama under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994) and the Penal Code. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Heroin in Panama, full detail →

MDMA

Legal status: Illegal under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (with Law 13/1994) + Penal Code — recreational illegal, NO decrim threshold; small personal 'single dose' = discretionary lighter penalty (Art 320); trafficking 10–15 years
Consequences if caught: MDMA is illegal in Panama under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994) and the Penal Code. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

MDMA in Panama, full detail →

Methamphetamine

Legal status: Illegal under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (with Law 13/1994) + Penal Code — recreational illegal, NO decrim threshold; small personal 'single dose' = discretionary lighter penalty (Art 320); trafficking 10–15 years
Consequences if caught: Methamphetamine is illegal in Panama under Ley No. 23 of 1986 (consolidated with Law No. 13 of 1994) and the Penal Code. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Methamphetamine in Panama, full detail →

Not individually verified

For these 80 substances the governing national drug law is cited, but we have not verified that the substance specifically is scheduled under it. Treat them as unanswered, not as legal. Confirm with Panama’s drug authority or your embassy.

1P-LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

2-FDCK

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

25I-NBOMe

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

2C-B

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

2C-E

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

2C-I

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

2C-T-7

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

3-MMC

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

4-AcO-DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

4-HO-MET

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

6-APB

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Adderall

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Alcohol

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Amanita muscaria

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Amphetamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Amyl Nitrite

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Ayahuasca

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Barbiturates

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Benzodiazepines

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Buprenorphine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Caffeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Cathinone

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

CBD

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Clonazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Codeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Crack Cocaine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Delta-8-THC

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Diazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

DOM

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

DXM

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Ephedrine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Etizolam

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Fentanyl

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Gabapentin

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

GBL

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

GHB

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

HHC

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Hydrocodone

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Ketamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Khat

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Kratom

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Lorazepam

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

LSA (Morning Glory)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

MDA

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

MDPV

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Memantine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Mephedrone (4-MMC)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Mescaline

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Methadone

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Methaqualone (Quaaludes)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Methylone

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Methylphenidate

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Mitragynine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Modafinil

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Morphine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

MXE

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Nicotine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Nitrous Oxide

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Oxycodone

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

PCP

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Peyote

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Phenibut

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Pink Cocaine / Tusi

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Poppers

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Pregabalin

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Psilocybin

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Quetiapine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Salvia divinorum

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Scopolamine (Devil's Breath)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

THC-P

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Tobacco

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Tramadol

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Xanax (Alprazolam)

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Xylazine

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Zolpidem

Legal status: Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Panama's authorities (Ley No. 23 of 1986) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: This specific substance was not named in the cited Panamanian sources (Ley No. 23 of 1986 with Law No. 13 of 1994; Penal Code Arts 313/314/320/321/322) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Recreational use is illegal in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold. Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures (dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures) — but this is discretionary, not a fixed threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking/import/export/transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years.
If prescribed / medical: If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
Documentation: Recreational drug use is ILLEGAL in Panama and there is NO formal decriminalization threshold — do not treat Panama as 'decriminalized.' Under Penal Code Art 320, where a court or forensic examiner determines that the amount is a 'small quantity' for personal consumption (a single dose), penalties are lighter — fines, community service, weekend detention or 2–4 years, or therapeutic measures; dependency plus a small amount leads to rehabilitative rather than custodial measures. This is discretionary, not a fixed statutory threshold, and possession remains illegal. Possession for distribution (Art 321) draws 8–12 years; trafficking, import, export or transit (Art 313) 10–15 years; cultivation or manufacture (Art 314) 10–15 years; organized-crime leaders (Art 322) 20–25 years. Medical cannabis is legal (Law 242 of 2021, the first in Central America; MINSA-regulated; licensed pharmacies; oils and extracts only, no smokable flower; home cultivation banned; first pharmacy opened in early January 2026), and hemp/CBD of 1% THC or less has been legal since March 2025 (Law 464). Panama has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.

Before you travel

Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authority and your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.

If you’re detained or arrested abroad

Contact your own country’s embassy or consulate in the destination immediately — not the destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →

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