MS sufferers'dismayed' as cannabis

[Tom]

SUFFERERS of multiple sclerosis reacted with dismay yesterday after a cannabis-based drug failed to gain a licence to be used in treatment of the condition.

 

In clinical trials carried out at Dundee University, MS patients reported benefits from using cannabis extract Sativex.

 

But the Medicines Commission was not satisfied with the efficacy of the drug and has refused a licence.

 

Earlier this year, Canada became the first country in the world to approve the painkiller and doctors there can prescribe Sativex to MS patients.

 

Scotland has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with more than 10,000 sufferers.

 

Mark Hazlewood, director of the MS Society in Scotland, said the news would come as a blow to many sufferers.

 

He said it was hoped Sativex could have been used to provide relief for patients, some of whom resort to smoking or eating cannabis to relieve symptoms.

 

Mr Hazlewood said: "I think one of the reasons people with MS are keen to see some of these products coming on to the market is so they can get access to medication through a safe and prescribed route, to help them with their symptoms."

 

Multiple sclerosis sufferers have been campaigning for years to use cannabis to ease their symptoms. One sufferer, the late Biz Ivol, from Orkney, sparked debate after she admitted making cannabis-laced chocolates for other patients with the same condition.

 

Last month, a breast cancer victim made medical history by becoming the first person to be prescribed cannabis as a treatment for clinical pain.

 

Jeanie Rae, 57, from Stirlingshire, was given Sativex as part of a clinical trial, but doctors continued to prescribe it after she reported it eased her pain.

 

Paul Cruikshank, who stood in the general election for the Legalise Cannabis Alliance "in honour of Biz Ivol", said it was "a crime against humanity" to deny people a drug that might help relieve pain. And he predicted some MS sufferers will continue to use cannabis without the option of alternatives.

 

Mark O'Donovan, chief executive of the MS Society, said the choice of treatments for sufferers was already limited and there was now "convincing evidence" that cannabis-derived drugs can significantly improve patients' quality of life.

 

He said: "This news will be greeted with absolute dismay by many of the 85,000 people in the UK who have MS and suffer from distressing symptoms including spasticity and pain. How long must they wait?"

 

Yesterday's decision came after UK-based drugs company GW Pharmaceuticals launched an appeal against advice given by the Committee on Safety of Medicines (CSM) to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency in December not to grant a licence for Sativex in the UK.

 

http://images.scotsman.com/2005/06/11/11womancharib.jpg

The late Biz Ivol, a multiple sclerosis sufferer from Orkney, caused outcry by making cannabis-laced sweets for MS patients.

Picture: David Moir

 

Author:LOUISE GRAY

Date:Sat 11 Jun 2005

Source:Scotsman.com

Copyright: ©2005 Scotsman.com

 

Typical of stupid government departments everywhere, encourage the development of something that will make life easier for people and then refuse them access to it, the mongrels don’t care how many people suffer due to their stupidity.

 

[F420]

Is that just sativex or does that include Marinol also??

[Alison Myrden]

Hi guys...

 

I have been on the Marijuana Pill, "Cesamet" also known as "Nabilone" for almost ten years off and on. When ever I run out of raw Cannabis, I fill the prescription for Cesamet. Told my Docs it doesn't really help me except to fall asleep, (maaaaybe some help with leg cramps) :scratchin but not much else. I still rely on it with Morphine when I don't have anything to smoke though...

 

I am hoping that Sativex, which was just approved in Canada, will be made available and affordable for people like us with MS in Canada AND around the World. I am not completely accepting a pharmaceutical - I want the CHOICE. :smoke

 

I hope your Country decides soon that any form of Marijuana is worth the trouble and the education sooner rather than later for all of you.

 

We should know very soon. My whole issue with this is affordability. Not sure what it would cost you guys, but I heard it was going to be between $100. and $140. CDN for ONE bottle. One bottle has only 54 sprays I think. It would last me three days MAYBE Docs tell me. I am one of the largest presciptions for narcotics in the Country for the pain in my face daily so they doubt it would take a small amount...

 

Will keep you guys posted on how it turns out with us in Canada. I wouldn't rave about Cesamet as I said...

 

 

My Humble Opinion...

 

 

Love and a squish,

Alison

xx