The problematic consumption of psychoactive substances represents a complication that affects both individually and collectively. Uruguay has been characterized as a country at the forefront in dealing with this problem, through laws and the creation of different institutions and strategies to care for people who need to recover, maintaining the firm purpose of guaranteeing public health and significant care. The problematic use of cannabis in the country has become a vital issue, since statistical analyzes show a tendency to increase, specially in adolescents. Law No. 19,172 has established regulations for controlled access to cannabis, thus seeking to minimize the risks associated with illegal trade and safeguard public health. The main objective of this research work is to analyze the current problematic consumption of psychoactive substances in Uruguay, focusing on the current laws and regulations that address this problem, as well as on the existing mechanisms at the national level for the recovery of affected people, paying special attention to cannabis legislation. The methodological design was framed in a qualitative, descriptive and reflective research. More than 180 scientific articles and documents verifiable in public specialized web search engines were analyzed. The conclusions indicate that the problematic consumption of psychoactive substances in Uruguay represents a significant challenge for public health and society, which requires comprehensive and evidence-based approaches. There is a need for legal and strategic adaptability in the face of changing consumption trends and the vital role of recovery mechanisms in the inclusion and treatment of affected people.

Keywords: Uruguay, psychoactive substances, problematic use, cannabis, drugs.