Inorganic element profile of medicinal Cannabis extracts consumed by pediatric patients

Abstract

The increasing number of reports of web-based experiences on the success of Cannabis-based therapies in controlling seizures in children suffering from refractory epilepsy have led to efforts by governments and associations to a recent change in legislation. The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) allowed the import of Cannabis extracts in 2015 and the registration of the first industrialized drug in 2017. In 2019, ANVISA approved procedures for the granting of a Sanitary Authorization for manufacturing and imports, establishing marketing requirements, prescribing, dispensing, monitoring and surveillance of cannabis products for medicinal purposes. Similar to other consumer products of health concern, is necessary to ensure the quality and health safety of these products worldwide. The aim of the present study to evaluate the presence of As, Cd, Pb, Ni, Cu, Co, Cr and Mn present in Cannabis extracts and resins used in the treatment of pediatric patients with neurological diseases. Samples (48 national and 24 imported) were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry-ICP-MS. The imported extracts presented more homogeneous inorganic element values, while national extracts showed varied levels, thus indicating the highest health risk.