22/07/2007 00:00:00
UK: Decision on MS cannabis drug urged
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Medicine regulators have been accused of dragging their feet over a
cannabis drug for people with multiple sclerosis.
The Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) met last week to
discuss Sativex, a medicinal form of cannabis.
It decided more clinical data was needed before the drug could be
approved for treating muscle stiffness in MS patients.
Professor Mike Barnes, consultant neurologist at the University of
Newcastle and a trustee of the MS Trust charity, said: "This decision
leaves many people with MS little option but to resort to 'street'
cannabis for relief from the painful and disabling symptoms of their
condition.
"With Wednesday's announcement by the Prime Minister that
re-classification of 'recreational' cannabis is being considered, this
is even more worrying."
He said there was "compelling" evidence that Sativex helped a large
proportion of people with MS.
On average, half the patients who tried the drug gained some benefit and
there were no concerns.
Chris Jones, chief executive of the MS Trust, said: "It is a sad fact
that the system imposes a 'one size fits all' model on a condition like
MS. One size never fits all with MS - it is a hugely variable condition
with variable responses to treatments. To deny some patients because the
treatment doesn't help everyone is madness."
A fifth of 160 people surveyed by the MS Trust had reported a reduced
need for supportive equipment or mobility assistance, said Mr Jones.
Almost everyone taking part experienced an improvement in general life
benefits.
"Sativex meets a currently unmet medical need in patients where there is
no other conservative treatment option," said Mr Jones. "It is our view
that Sativex should be licensed and become available on prescription."
http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/
Source:
http://www.ukcia.org/news/shownewsarticle.php?articleid=12728
Author:
icWales via UKCIA
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