Companies developing cannabis-based medicines are hoping for a boost in private funding and public markets following the US reclassification of the drug. The move could help the struggling cannabis industry, which has been seen as a lifeline by executives of three companies with cannabis medicines in development. Ananda Pharma, which is developing a treatment for endometriosis-related pain, plans to raise $10 million to $20 million in private funds within six months following the rescheduling. The rescheduled designation of marijuana makes it easier to run U.S.-based studies and reduces reputational barriers among traditional life sciences investors. However, the challenge of aligning the new federal cannabis policy with varying state regulations could pose uncertainty for companies planning large U.K.