SUS in Sergipe: 235 patients receive free pharmaceutical consultation for cannabidiol treatment

Ana Alice, a homemaker and mother of Daniel, accompanied by the Nucleus of Specialized Therapies Support (Nate), highlighted the importance of public treatment for her son. She shared her experience with the new pharmaceutical consultation service when picking up cannabidiol at the Sergipe Health Care Center (Case). 
 

“Sergipe is a pioneer in providing cannabidiol through the Unified Health System (SUS). Today, I came to get the medication, went through the service, and received clear and concise guidance on the correct usage and dosage, with a step-by-step explanation for my son's treatment,” reported in a note from the Sergipe Government.  

Currently, Nate serves 235 patients undergoing cannabidiol treatment — 173 for controlling aggressive behavior associated with ASD and 62 for refractory epilepsy. The data, obtained by the Sechat Portal, refers to August 2025.

Pioneering Service in the State

On Thursday, August 13, the Sergipe Government announced the opening of the pharmaceutical consultation service at Case, a facility linked to the State Department of Health (SES). The service includes an assessment of the medications used by patients and guidance to ensure proper treatment, focusing on optimizing pharmacotherapy.

In a statement, the SES Pharmaceutical Assistance Coordinator, Juliana Santos, explained that the service will initially cater to patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), type 2 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.

“Pharmaceutical consultations bring advancement to pharmaceutical care in Sergipe, delivering more comprehensive care to users' needs. Additionally, they ensure greater proximity between healthcare professionals and patients, with personalized monitoring,” she stated.

State Cannabis Policy

In April 2023, Sergipe enacted Law No. 9,178, establishing the State Cannabis Policy. Nate provides comprehensive health support, including medical, nutritional, and multiprofessional care.

The new service at Case will assist patients who meet specific criteria, including individuals with aggressive behavior in ASD, using cannabidiol for the first time, and registered at Nate. 

Patients with multiple sclerosis using cladribine and type 2 diabetes patients over 60 years old, using insulin and dapagliflozin, will also be served.

“Pharmacists now play an effective role in patient care, reinforcing Nate's multiprofessional approach. In addition to medical and nutritional support, patients will receive clinical support from the pharmacist, who monitors correct medication usage, prevents interactions and adverse reactions, and provides individualized guidance for greater efficacy and safety,” highlighted Juliana Santos.

To access the service, the patient must visit Case for scheduling, provided they meet the established criteria.

With information from Gov. Sergipe