GW Pharma says cannabis drug helps MS sufferers

GW Pharmaceuticals Plc said on Tuesday its cannabis-based medicine Sativex was effective in reducing pain-related problems for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis.

The company said a study based on 66 patients found Sativex was significantly superior to placebo in reducing pain and sleep disturbance.

Sativex, an under-the-tongue cannabis spray, has been developed by GW Pharmaceuticals and is currently approved as a prescription medicine in Canada for the symptomatic relief of neuropathic pain in adults with multiple sclerosis.

An ongoing clinical trial programme is being undertaken to support regulatory approval in the UK. Upon UK approval, Sativex will be exclusively marketed by Germany’s Bayer AG, GW said. UK approval is viewed as crucial, as it would open the door to the larger European market.

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