AMBULATÓRIO DE CANNABIS MEDICINAL: CONQUISTAS, DESAFIOS E PERSPECTIVAS

Abstract

Cannabis has been used medicinally since prehistoric times, but was criminalized throughout the 20th century due to political and industrial pressures. In Brazil, the scenario began to change in the 21st century, with legal revisions and regulations from ANVISA and the Federal Council of Medicine, allowing its prescription in specific cases. This paper presents an experience report on the Medicinal Cannabis Outpatient Clinic of the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), created in 2018 as an outreach project. The clinic provides care to patients who require cannabis for therapeutic purposes, in addition to disseminating information on legal aspects and promoting prescriber training. Since its founding, the clinic has conducted 376 clinical appointments. The main challenges include a lack of prescribing physicians, adequate physical infrastructure, and institutional support. In 2024, the project was renewed, allowing for the resumption of services and the "Cannabis Circles"—educational and support gatherings. The main demand from patients has been for the treatment of chronic pain and disorders such as fibromyalgia and anxiety. Despite the lack of robust clinical studies, many patients have reported an improvement in quality of life. No serious side effects have been recorded. Access to medicinal cannabis still faces legal, social, and institutional barriers. Among the main challenges are the availability/access to medication, social stigma, and the inclusion of prescribing professionals in the public health system (SUS). The clinic plays a vital role in both care and training, but it needs greater support to ensure its continuity. The expansion of scientific studies and regulatory changes is essential to broaden access to treatment.