Medical cannabis: science, innovation and clinical advances. Integrative literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Cannabis sativa is a plant of the Cannabaceae family with extensive medicinal use. Its composition includes more than 100 active compounds, notably tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes psychoactive effects, and cannabidiol (CBD), which has therapeutic properties without altering cognition. Historically, cannabis has been a natural remedy in various cultures, but its prohibition in the 20th century limited scientific research. Objective: This article aims to review recent advances in research on medical cannabis, focusing on its clinical effectiveness in various pathologies and the ethical and regulatory implications of its use. Materials and Methods: This review is based on research from databases such as Medline, Lilacs, SciELO and Google Scholar, analyzing the impact of cannabis on neurological diseases. Discussion: Evidence suggests that it may be beneficial in the management of chronic pain, spasticity in multiple sclerosis, and symptoms of disorders such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, its use in medicine faces challenges, such as a lack of standardization in production and dosage, which complicates obtaining consistent results. Variability in individual response, regulatory barriers, and social stigma also hinder its acceptance. Despite these challenges, growing evidence of its benefits has led to a reassessment of its therapeutic potential and a change in its regulation in some countries, allowing more patients to access cannabis treatments.