Characterization and follow up of a population of Uru-guayan cannabis derivatives users in artisanal medicine

Abstract

Introduction: knowledge on medical cannabis is over 10,000 years old and stems from Asian and Eastern medicine.  In recent years, special interest on its therapeutic use has arisen, and in 2013 Uruguay passed a law to regulate possession and use of cannabis plants.
Objective: to characterize the use of medicinal cannabis derivatives in a population of Uruguayan users.
Method: observational, prospective study in a population of medicinal cannabis derivatives users through telephone surveys. Data obtained were analysed with Excel®, by using descriptive statistics.
Results: thirty two users were included in the study, between 29 and 78 years old, most of which were female. The most widely used pharmaceutical form was oil and the main indication was to treat pain. A decline in pain intensity after treatment was observed. The main adverse effect observed was dry mouth.
Conclusions: this is the first national study to characterize the use of artisanal medicinal cannabis derivatives. Thirty two users of artisanal medicinal cannabis derivatives were included in the study. The main indication for artisanal medicinal cannabis derivatives was the treatment of pain, arthrosis being the main cause. All users followed non-approved indications if compared to industrialized equivalents. The use was more extended among women. Great expectation upon initiation of use was noticed. Adverse events observed were mild and the expected.