Brazilian moms are leading the charge to secure CBD for sick kids

Associated Press

SAO PAULO (AP) — In Brazil, Janaína Silva’s 4-year-old son, Murillo, suffers from severe epilepsy, leading to frequent, prolonged convulsions. After various medications failed, his pediatricians prescribed CBD, significantly reducing his seizures. Thanks to a recently enacted law in the state of Sao Paulo, Silva now receives the medication for free, a relief given its high cost. The legislation is a result of years of activism by mothers of sick kids, despite Brazil’s strict drug laws. The movement for medicinal CBD, supported by some scientific research and public advocacy, has transformed the landscape. Over 430,000 Brazilians received treatment with compounds found in cannabis in 2023, with strong public opinion support even among conservatives.