RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Drugstores in Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, and its large suburbs Betim and Contagem, are starting to sell cannabidiol products. The sale was authorized by the National Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) in April this year.
Ten Pacheco drugstores branches in Belo Horizonte, one in Betim, and one in Contagem will now be selling the product. It may also be purchased at any branch of Droga Raia, while only one branch of Drogaria Araujo will be selling it. The Cannabidiol will be sold for approximately R$2,400 (US$480).
The product is a phytopharmaceutical, with a THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration of up to 0.2 percent, and can only be purchased with a special control prescription.
A resolution creating a new category of cannabis-based products has been in force since March 10th this year. From that date on, companies were allowed to apply for agency authorization. Drogarias Pacheco are the first to supply the product in Minas Gerais.
The regulation of marijuana products in Brazil was approved by ANVISA in December last year. With the decision, cannabis-based products for medicinal use can be sold in pharmacies, upon medical prescription, and subject to inspection by the agency.
The main medical instructions for cannabis-based products are for treating:
- Epileptic seizures, particularly in children
- Neuropathic pain
- Nausea from chemotherapy
- Symptoms of autism
- Night-time restlessness in patients with dementia
- Multiple Sclerosis Spasms
Source: G1