The government of São Paulo defined on Monday (5) the regulation of cannabidiol-based drugs that SUS (Single Health System) will provide free of charge.
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a substance present in the Cannabis sativa plant, one of the components of marijuana, which acts on the central nervous system.
The bill was introduced in 2019 by a group formed by state congressman Caio França (PSB) and seven other parliamentarians.
The state governor, Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicans), sanctioned it in January of this year.
Then, a workgroup was created to define the diseases treated with the medicines.
At first, only patients diagnosed with:
- Dravet syndrome
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Tuberous sclerosis
The diseases are rare, serious, and incurable.
“These are severe conditions that compromise the quality of life of the affected patients and their families,” explained José Luiz Gomes do Amaral, coordinator of the Working Committee for the regulation of the law, in a statement.
“The expansion of treatment could bring them immense benefit.”
“We hope to be able to offer them this benefit as soon as possible, and I imagine this will happen in the coming months,” he added.
The choice of the diseases contemplated was made by the commission, formed by representatives of the State Health Secretariat, medical associations, medical schools, sectors of the Judiciary and Legislative branches, and Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency).
According to a note from the secretariat, the workgroup is now working to operationalize purchasing and distributing the medication.
It will also be responsible for monitoring patients eligible to receive CBD.
The cost of treatment is under evaluation.
With information from Poder360
News Brazil, English news Brazil, São Paulo government
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