Compounds derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have gained prominence in medicine due to their distinct therapeutic properties. Understanding their differences is essential for healthcare professionals and patients seeking effective and safe alternatives.

CBD: Therapy Without Psychoactive Effects

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that interacts with the endocannabinoid system, promoting anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, and neuroprotective effects. Clinical studies indicate its efficacy in treating conditions such as refractory epilepsy, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases.

In Brazil, the therapeutic use of CBD is regulated by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). Since 2015, Anvisa has allowed the importation of CBD-based products with a medical prescription. Published in 2022, Anvisa's RDC 660 authorizes the exceptional importation of cannabis products with a medical prescription. Furthermore, the regulation of RDC 327/2019 facilitates access to these treatments, allowing the importation of products with detailed prescriptions. Currently, Anvisa has approved 26 products from 16 different companies for the cannabis market in Brazil.

THC: Controlled Use with Therapeutic Potential

THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, including the feeling of euphoria. Additionally, it has analgesic and relaxing properties. Its use is mainly indicated for cases of intense pain, insomnia, nausea caused by treatments such as chemotherapy, and appetite stimulation in weight loss patients, such as in some cancer cases. In Brazil, THC has restricted use and requires special authorization from Anvisa for therapeutic purposes.

A study conducted by the University Hospital of Bonn (UKB) and the University of Bonn, in collaboration with the Hebrew University of Israel, revealed that a low and continuous dose of THC can reverse brain aging processes and promote general anti-aging effects. The study, conducted in mice, showed that THC influenced important molecular pathways in the brain, particularly the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), which is related to brain aging. Furthermore, THC treatment temporarily increased mTOR protein activity in the hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory, promoting an anti-aging effect by decreasing mTOR activity and metabolic processes in the periphery.

Legal Landscape and Access in Brazil

The Brazilian legislation has been advancing in recognizing the therapeutic potential of cannabis. In 2025, Anvisa revises the RDC 327, seeking to improve the regulations for the medicinal use of cannabis and the dispensing of cannabis-based products in pharmacies and drugstores. Another expectation is the revision of RDC 660, which establishes criteria for the importation of cannabis-based products by individuals with a medical prescription. Additionally, patient associations have played a crucial role in obtaining cannabis-based products, offering safe and accessible alternatives for various treatments.

Treatable Diseases with Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis has shown efficacy in treating various health conditions, including:

• Refractory epilepsy
• Anxiety disorders
• Chronic pain
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease
• Autism
• Fibromyalgia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia
• Insomnia
• Arthritis and osteoarthritis
• Acne
• Eating disorders
• Gastrointestinal diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and gastroesophageal reflux.

These conditions can be treated with medical cannabis, providing symptom relief and improving the quality of life for patients. Learn more: