The Brazilian Association of Medical Cannabis Patients “Embrace Hope“, incorporated in Paraíba, will donate vials with a concentration of 2% of CBD to a group of 20 doctors with suspected infection, as well as vaporizers for already infected professionals who have symptoms of the virus, such as shortness of breath. The aim is to test the effectiveness of the drug against the symptoms of the new coronavirus.
The idea came when Cassiano Teixeira, director of the Association, viewed a video of an infected doctor. Although the priority is patients, after meeting Pedro Pierro, a neurosurgeon at Abrace, the project was aimed at health professionals who are on the front line in the fight against this pandemic.
The neurosurgeon told the Cannabis & Health that the idea came from an impression he and Cassiano Teixeira, not proven or studied, about the influence of cannabinoids on prevention and recovery in patients with Covid-19.
Project Structuring
A total of 40 doctors from all over Brazil will be divided into two groups. One of the groups will receive cannabidiol oil and the other a placebo. The distribution of the products is already underway, with doctors having no way of knowing whether they are receiving CBD oil or placebo. After publishing the results of the observational study, Associação Abrace intends to continue the research with the support of universities.
According to Cassiano Teixeira, there is scientific evidence of the bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis. The president of the association, Cassiano Teixeira, also emphasizes that the vials with cannabidiol donated to health professionals for the test were all prescribed by collaborating doctors of the Association.
First empirical study of its kind
This initiative by Associação Abrace Esperança is the first phase of an experimental and empirical research project, as there is no scientific evidence of the use of cannabinoids against Covid-19. For this reason, the association do an observational study of physicians.
“We are currently recruiting volunteer doctors to use Embrace oil and report their experience. Nothing else.” Associação Abrace also hopes to carry out the study with nurses and patients with suspected Covid-19.
According to Pedro Pierro, volunteer doctors must maintain all the guidelines of the Ministry of Health regarding the use of Personal Protective Equipment. All will be monitored and will respond to periodic questionnaires.
Immunity
There are still no studies on the effect of cannabis derivatives on coronavirus patients. What is empirically proven is the effect, which is essential in the fight against the pandemic. The plant also has bronchodilatory and neuroprotective properties, which can be helpful.
There is already evidence of the effectiveness of Cannabis in cases of epilepsy, autism, fibromyalgia and pain caused by inflammation. This does not, however, mean protection against the coronavirus. Nor does it rule out the possibility of treating any symptoms in those diagnosed with the disease.
_______________________________________________________
Featured photo: Cannabis&Health