Canada approves use of cannabis spray for MS sufferers

In a world first Canada has taken the lead in approving the use of a cannabis spray that relieves pain in multiple sclerosis sufferers.

The drug Sativex, is derived from delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, two compounds of the cannabis plant, and is administered by an oral spray. It brings relief from the pain suffered by patients with MS and is expected to be on the market by late spring.

Health Canada says 86 percent of people with the disease experience neuropathic (nerve) pain.

The side-effects from the drug, which are usually "mild or moderate," can include nausea, fatigue, dizziness and reactions at the application site.

Rob Kampia, executive director of the U.S. Marijuana Policy Project in Washington, D.C. welcomed the news and says that drug company GW Pharmaceuticals has proven that marijuana is a medicine that is both effective and remarkably safe, and the Canadian government has acknowledged that.

Comments

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Post

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.

You might also like...
Increased cannabis use in diabetics raises concerns about health risks