O USO DA CANNABIS MEDICINAL NO TRATAMENTO DA DOENÇA DE ALZHEIMER: ATRIBUIÇÕES DO FARMACÊUTICO E A INTER PROFISSIONALIDADE NO CUIDADO
O USO DA CANNABIS MEDICINAL NO TRATAMENTO DA DOENÇA DE ALZHEIMER: ATRIBUIÇÕES DO FARMACÊUTICO E A INTER PROFISSIONALIDADE NO CUIDADO
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.6301125260215
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Palavras-chave: Alzheimer; cannabis; farmacêutico; sistema endocanabinoide
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Keywords: Alzheimer; cannabis; pharmacist; endocannabinoid system
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Abstract: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that compromises cognitive and behavioral functions, affecting millions of people worldwide. The available treatments, mainly based on acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists, offer limited benefits and are often associated with adverse effects that negatively impact patient adherence. In this context, interest in complementary therapies has grown, particularly the medicinal use of Cannabis sativa. Its main compounds, especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), exhibit neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic properties. Recent studies show that these phytocannabinoids can modulate the endocannabinoid system, reduce neuroinflammation, protect neurons against beta-amyloid-induced toxicity, and alleviate neuropsychiatric symptoms such as agitation, insomnia, and anxiety in patients with AD. In Brazil, medicinal cannabis regulation is evolving, assigning a central role to the pharmacist in product dispensing, clinical follow-up, and health education. The pharmacist provides guidance on proper use, prevents drug interactions, and monitors adverse effects, thereby contributing to therapeutic safety and efficacy. Furthermore, the importance of interprofessional collaboration in Alzheimer’s care is emphasized, with the pharmacist acting as a bridge between science, clinical practice, and humanized care. This study highlights the need to consolidate evidence-based practices and to strengthen public policies that broaden access to safe and innovative therapies. When properly indicated and monitored by qualified professionals, medicinal cannabis represents a promising complementary strategy in the management of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Sabrina Bartz Pereira
- Wendel Silva de Souza
- Anna Maly de Leão e Neves Eduardo