The Brazilian market for medicinal cannabis has just gained two new oils developed by Carmen’s Medicinals, which bring Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in different compositions. The novelties — Carmen’s THC-CBD 1:1 and Carmen’s THC 300 mg — were formulated from pure Cannabis sativa extract and are introduced to the country as additional options for doctors and patients in various therapeutic indications.

THC is one of the main cannabinoids in the plant, known for its interaction with the human Endocannabinoid System (CB1 and CB2 receptors), responsible for triggering therapeutic effects ranging from pain relief to support in mental health conditions.

According to Ricardo Pettená, Executive Director of Carmen's Medicinals, the balanced formulation of THC and CBD favors both the efficacy and safety of the treatment. “Due to the competitive antagonistic action on the receptors, the combination allows obtaining the therapeutic properties of these phytocannabinoids with a lower incidence of the psychoactive effects characteristic of THC, especially in more vulnerable individuals. The presentation of 300 mg of THC becomes useful for the physician who wishes to titrate the THC x CBD in an even more individualized way to the needs of each patient”, he explains.

The two versions

The Carmen’s oils come to the market with distinct profiles:

• Carmen’s THC-CBD 1:1: contains 300 mg of THC and 300 mg of CBD, focusing on balance and the potential of the so-called Entourage Effect, where cannabinoids act synergistically.

• Carmen’s THC 300 mg: brings only THC in the same dosage, recommended in situations where attention is specifically focused on the effects of this compound.

The company emphasizes that both formulations were designed to meet different patient profiles, considering both the need to control psychoactive effects and the search for more targeted results.

Clinical indications

THC has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties, supported by international studies and clinical experience. Among the main medical applications are:

• - Refractory nausea and vomiting, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy;

• - Spasticity in Multiple Sclerosis;

• - Chronic neuropathic pain;

• - Motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease;

• - Induction of sleep in cases of insomnia;

• - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD);

• - Affective disorders, as an adjuvant in depressive conditions;

• - Appetite stimulation in specific conditions.

Safety and monitoring

Although primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of the plant, THC is considered a safe and effective therapeutic tool when used with caution. The principle “start low, go slow” continues to be the recommendation for prescribing, allowing patients to gradually adapt to doses and avoid unwanted reactions such as drowsiness, anxiety, or dizziness.

According to Pettená, safety goes beyond the initial guidance and involves active support for prescribers and patients. “In addition to studying articles related to the topic and producing updated informative material, we work with doctors and specialists to provide classes and workshops to offer the best indications for the use of high-THC products to more prescribers, as well as keeping our consultants able to answer patient questions. We maintain the Patient Support system to address, resolve, and manage questions and reports sent about unexpected reactions, analyzing each case individually, as should be done when talking about cannabinoid therapy”, he states.

Mental health and well-being

The launch also targets patients with demands in mental and cognitive health, such as anxiety and depression. In these cases, according to the executive, the balanced (1:1) formulation tends to be more indicated. “For these issues, the use of a balanced CBD:THC formula is the best indication, as the competition for receptors may decrease the common psychoactive effects of THC. In addition to the known psychotropic effects of THC, it also promotes a sense of well-being, stress reduction, and mild euphoria, being an important ally in cases of anxiety and depression”, Pettená explains.