Cannabis in Rheumatological Diseases: Yes or No?

Autores: María Julieta Gamba, Darío Scublinsky

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Background: The use of medicinal cannabis has grown in rheumatology as a complementary therapy for chronic pain and inflammation, despite still limited and heterogeneous clinical evidence. In Argentina, Law 27.350 facilitates access, but uncertainties exist regarding its prescription.

Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge and practices of Argentine rheumatologists regarding medicinal cannabis.

Methods: An observational study was performed based on an anonymous online survey distributed during the 58th Argentine Congress of Rheumatology and through professional networks. Demographic and professional variables, knowledge of the law, attitudes toward use, potential indications, clinical practices, level of knowledge, and perceived barriers were collected. They were compared with data obtained from the same survey conducted in 2020.

Results: One hundred rheumatologists participated (65% women; median age 43 years). Sixty-six percent were aware of the law. Acceptance of cannabis use among patients was high (80% agreed or strongly agreed), an increase compared to 2020 (36.6%). Ninety percent reported needing more information. The main indications considered were fibromyalgia (80%) and degenerative diseases (40%). In practice, 66% reported that their patients use cannabis without advising them to discontinue its use. The main barriers were lack of knowledge regarding dosage (60%), distrust of growers (53%), uncertain composition (49%), and limited confidence in the evidence (48%).

Conclusions: There is a significant shift toward greater acceptance of medicinal cannabis among Argentine rheumatologists, accompanied by a significant knowledge gap. Training strategies, clinical research, and the development of evidence-based guidelines are needed for its safe and rational integration into rheumatological practice.