RDC 660/2022: import of cannabis products by the patient

What it is and regulatory context

RDC 660/2022 is the Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency) resolution that governs the import of Cannabis-derived products for personal use, directly by the patient. Published in 2022, it improved and replaced the previous rule (RDC 335/2020) and became one of the main pathways to cannabis-medicine treatment in Brazil, while the country consolidates a broader regulatory framework. It is an individual access route, designed to ensure health safety without interrupting treatments already underway.

What the rule establishes

The resolution defines the procedure for individuals to import Cannabis products intended for personal use, with a prescription from a legally authorized professional. The patient, or their legal representative, requests an individual authorization from Anvisa through the gov.br portal, submitting the required documentation — including the medical prescription and personal documents. Once granted, the authorization is valid for two years, and the imported product is for personal, non-transferable use and cannot be commercialized.

Who it applies to and impacts

It applies to patients who have a prescription for cannabinoid treatment and who do not yet find, in the domestic market, an equivalent registered product. In practice, RDC 660 broadened and simplified access, reduced litigation and brought predictability to families and healthcare professionals. It is today the most used route for individual access to products such as CBD-rich oils, benefiting thousands of patients with epilepsy, chronic pain, anxiety and other conditions.

Deadlines, validity and access

RDC 660/2022 is in force. The authorization request is usually reviewed within a few business days, and the granted authorization is valid for two years and can be renewed. To structure a safe import — from documentation to customs clearance —, Brazcann offers specialized consulting. The official text can be consulted on the Anvisa portal. This content is informative and does not replace medical or legal guidance.

Why this matters

For the patient, the main advantage of RDC 660 lies in legal certainty and predictability: with the Anvisa authorization in hand, the import of the prescribed product occurs within the law, with health and customs backing. This drastically reduces the risk of customs retention and the insecurity that marked access before regulation. It is worth remembering that the authorization is tied to the prescription: changes of product, dose or professional may require updating the request. Brazcann accompanies each stage — from organizing the documents to the arrival of the product and renewal within the deadline —, giving peace of mind to those who depend on treatment continuity.

Frequently asked questions

How to import cannabis under RDC 660?

With a medical prescription, an individual authorization is requested from Anvisa via the gov.br portal; once granted, it is valid for 2 years.

Is RDC 660 in force?

Yes. It is the main route for individual access to cannabis products in Brazil.