Rivotril vs. Cannabis: Deusa Cast debate analyzes effectiveness, risks, and safety of treatments

The use of medications for anxiety control, seizures, and chronic pain was the central theme of an enlightening debate on Deusa Cast, the official podcast of the Sechat Portal. Dr. Pedro Pierro, a renowned neurosurgeon and Scientific Director of Sechat, provided technical details on the comparison between traditional drugs, such as Rivotril (clonazepam), and cannabis derivatives.

Acute Efficacy vs. Long-Term Treatment

According to Dr. Pedro Pierro, the choice between one substance and another depends on the patient's needs. He emphasized that in acute situations— such as the need to abort an immediate seizure — benzodiazepines (like Rivotril) still have a faster action speed than cannabis.

However, the neurosurgeon warned of the risks of prolonged use of these synthetic medications. "Long-term treatment with benzodiazepines has more cumulative adverse effects than cannabis," explained the doctor. Among the issues mentioned are weight gain, cognitive deficits, and severe attention impairments.

Safety and Side Effects

One of the highlights of the conversation was the discussion on patient safety. Dr. Pedro Pierro emphasized that, although cannabis can have adverse effects if used improperly, the risk of death is practically nonexistent when compared to other substances.

"Hardly [the effects of cannabis] bring an imminent risk of death. Medicinal cannabis, used in drops and low density, makes this almost impossible," stated the scientific director.

The Role of THC

The doctor also demystified the use of THC, often seen only from a recreational perspective. He recalled that THC is "amazing" for controlling vomiting, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy, citing historical studies that led to the creation of synthetic versions of the substance in past decades to meet this medical demand.

Watch the episode clip where the doctor explains this difference:
 

Deusa Cast is an informative and educational program. The information presented does not replace medical consultation, diagnosis, or professional treatment.

In Brazil, the therapeutic use of cannabis should be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional and can occur through five legal pathways:

1. Acquisition through authorized patient associations;

2. Importation, with a medical prescription and Anvisa authorization;

3. Purchase in pharmacies and drugstores, of regulated products;

4. Compounding pharmacies, when authorized by a court decision;

5. Self-cultivation, exclusively with judicial authorization.