Cannabis Extract Provides Relief For MS Patients

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Summary

Move over Aspirin, Bayer has a new wonder drug – Sativex. Developed by GW Pharmaceuticals, Sativex is a whole plant cannabis extract intended for the relief of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and neuropathic-related cancer pain. Bayer has established exclusive rights to market Sativex in the UK – it is currently available in 24 countries – […]

Move over Aspirin, Bayer has a new wonder drug – Sativex. Developed by GW Pharmaceuticals, Sativex is a whole plant cannabis extract intended for the relief of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and neuropathic-related cancer pain. Bayer has established exclusive rights to market Sativex in the UK – it is currently available in 24 countries – and secured approval to conduct trials of Sativex with advanced cancer patients, whose pain is unrelieved by opiods, in the US. For those who are suffering from daily pain associated with cancer and MS, but are opposed to the frightening side effects associated with many prescription medications, Sativex could be a welcomed alternative.

Sativex seems to be a sure bet. In a study with twenty-eight patients who completed a two-year trial, it was reported that patients required fewer daily doses of Sativex and reported lower median pain scored the longer they took the drug. The authors of the study also made clear that the administration was not associated with an increase in patients’ use of other pain relieving medication. In fact, several of the study’s participants reduced or ceased their use of analgesics while taking Sativex.

And then there’s Barry Rudd, a 53 year old UK resident living with primary progressive MS. According to Barry, “Within a few days I could feel the benefit and after a couple of weeks my symptoms were almost completely gone. I’d say I was 80 per cent better.” Not only was Sativex useful in helping manage Barry’s pain, but he also reported it helped his chronic insomnia – a sure welcomed side effect.

With “Big Pharma” there is, of course, big issues to deal with. In the case of Barry Rudd, and surely many others, the price of Sativex – about $125 per bottle – made it impossible to continue long-term use of the drug. Competing with giant pharmaceutical companies is also impossible for mom-and-pop shops. Those who can afford the astronomical licensing fees are forcing out small-scale marijuana farmers. 

Plus, there is something to be said about sticking to unadulterated marijuana, which is already prescribed to MS and cancer patients. For those looking for a high-free alternative, however, Sativex may be a better choice, as only 3% of patients reported “euphoric mood” associated with the dug. Regardless of the pros and cons of Sativex, cannabis proves the point yet again that its healing powers are boundless.

Source: DrugDevelopment-Technology.com