Cannabis and Mental Health: Can Cannabidiol Replace Allopathic Medications?
Expert explains in which cases treatment with cannabidiol is recommended and shares advanced studies
Published on 12/21/2023
By Sechat editorial team
Data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that Brazil has the highest number of anxious people in the world: 9.3% of the population. Another alarming issue raised in the country also concerns mental health, as, according to the WHO, Brazil has the highest prevalence of depression cases in Latin America, with 5.8% of the Brazilian population living with the illness.
The exponential growth in the number of patients affected by mental health disorders throughout their lives also increases the search for less “aggressive” solutions for health, as chemical dependency, stimulated by medications, becomes another public health issue. One of the treatment avenues that is proving to be increasingly promising is the use of cannabidiol (CBD), one of the active compounds derived from Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana.
“Today, we see more and more patients benefiting from the effects of cannabidiol on health, especially to relieve some symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions,” explains Vitor Brasil, the doctor responsible for the 1st Cannabinoid Medicine Reception Center in Brazil, which operates at the Santa Casa de Curitiba.
In specific cases of anxiety and depression, cannabis can be used as a complementary option to conventional treatment, as its relaxing effect helps alleviate symptoms related to sleep dysfunction, muscle tension, tremors, fatigue, and anxiety itself. “Cannabis acts directly on the receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. The ECS is responsible for regulating various functions of the human body, including sleep, mood, and stress response, and the action of cannabis on it helps reduce anxiety and promote a sense of relaxation,” he explains.
Brazilian Congress on Medicinal Cannabis
The specialist further explains that, when compared to allopathic medications, cannabis used therapeutically presents fewer side effects, as it is a natural product. “The side effects of cannabis use can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, method of consumption, and individual sensitivity; however, they can be considered less aggressive than most chemical medications,” he adds.
It is worth noting that CBD should be used as part of a broader treatment plan, which may include therapy, lifestyle changes, and in many cases, prescription of other medications. “It is crucial to observe that the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes should be conducted under appropriate medical supervision. Each case must be evaluated individually, considering specific risks and benefits. Only a qualified physician can determine whether cannabis is a suitable and safe option for the patient,” the doctor concludes.
