Brazil approves cannabis-based products for veterinary use

Brazil approves cannabis-based products for veterinary use

In a landmark decision, Brazil has recently amended its regulatory framework to permit the use of cannabis-based products for animals, with the primary goal of enhancing pet wellness and health.

This regulatory shift comes as part of updates to Ordinance SVS/MS 344/1998, enabling Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to oversee the availability and regulation of cannabis products for animals.

This initiative marks Brazil’s entrance into the growing global trend of utilizing cannabis in pet care, an area gaining popularity and scientific support.

Veterinarians empowered with new prescribing options

Under the new policy, only veterinarians certified by Brazil's Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine can prescribe cannabis-based products, which are available only through special pharmacy prescriptions.

This mirrors the process for other controlled substances and emphasizes a controlled, professionally-guided approach to using these products in animal health. The goal is to offer animals options for potential relief from specific conditions, under the supervision of qualified veterinary professionals.

Research indicates potential benefits and safety

A systematic review conducted in Brazil in late 2022 found preliminary evidence supporting the safe use of cannabis-based products in pets, especially cannabidiol (CBD) products with minimal THC content.

The review, covering studies from 1990 to 2021, highlighted the potential for these products to improve quality of life and reduce discomfort in pets.

Notably, the review pointed to significant improvements in conditions like canine osteoarthritis, though it also emphasized the need for more comprehensive research to fully understand the effects and optimal use cases for these products in veterinary care.

Market expansion driven by rising interest in CBD for pets

The shift in Brazil's regulatory stance aligns with a growing global market for CBD-based pet products. According to Global Market Insights, the CBD pet product industry was valued at approximately $693.4 million in 2023 and is projected to grow significantly at an annual rate of 18.2% from 2024 to 2032.

This growth is driven by increasing pet ownership and rising awareness among pet owners regarding the potential benefits of CBD products.

• The market for CBD-based pet products is expected to see considerable growth, with dogs as the primary market segment.
• Global interest in hemp-derived CBD for pets is escalating, bolstered by studies suggesting potential wellness benefits.
• The growth reflects both increased pet ownership and a shift toward alternative health options for animals.

Addressing concerns and the need for further research

While the research to date offers encouraging insights, experts caution that large-scale, controlled clinical trials are still needed to confirm the benefits of cannabis-based products for pets.

Brazil's new regulation is seen as a step toward integrating more holistic health options for pets, yet it also highlights the importance of further scientific investigation.

Veterinarians and animal health experts advocate for continued research to develop a deeper understanding of the safety and efficacy of these products for different animals and health conditions.

Personal perspective

I find Brazil’s new policy on cannabis for animals a notable advancement in pet care. This move reflects an evolving approach to animal wellness, embracing diverse health tools available to veterinary professionals.

Although more research is essential to ensure safe, effective use, this policy change is likely to provide much-needed options for pet owners seeking ways to enhance their animals' comfort and overall quality of life under professional guidance.