Introduction:

Currently, one of the most controversial issues that greatly involves the medical field is the therapeutic use and legalization of marijuana. This millennial recognition has led to different controversies in recent decades due to the discovery of the endocannabinoid system which has revolutionized the process of research on this topic.

Objective:

To describe the current situation of cannabis, its therapeutic benefits and adverse effects.

Material and methods:

An in-depth search and review was carried out using Health Sciences descriptors in English and Spanish. A search was carried out in PubMed, SciELO, Lilacs, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases. Publications from the last 10 years were consulted, using a total of 45 articles as bibliographic references.

Development:

Some pharmacological effects such as antinociceptive, antiepileptic, immunosuppressive, antiemetic, appetite stimulant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective ones have been attributed to Cannabis. In turn, it presents dissimilar adverse reactions such as predisposition to various types of cancer, worsening of mental disorders, and difficulties with learning and school performance. Cannabis, among others, is considered a starter drug. Despite the trend towards legalization, there are not enough reasons for the legalization of this drug. Its main target turns out to be the adolescents, among which the neurological damage it causes is irreversible.

Conclusions:

The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids should continue to be explored from the production of well dosed and controlled pharmacological products, since the risk of their adverse effects are undeniable and overwhelming.

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