Insufficient proof of efficacy for marijuana spray to permit sale in the UK

GW Pharmaceuticals was able to prove that Sativex, their marijuana oral spray product, was safe and reliably contained sufficient tetrahydrocannabinol. But proof of effectiveness was lacking, in the view of the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)

Sativex wasn’t being promoted to treat a specific symptom. Information from the company claims that clinical trials conducted in people with multiple sclerosis have shown promising results in the relief of spasticity, nerve pain, sleep disturbance, and bladder symptoms.

Unfortunately, the scientific data were lacking.

The bottom line?
A study is being planned. Until then, UK doctors can order Sativex, although the process is more complicated than simply writing a prescription.

Sativex is approved for use only in Canada.

7/28/07 10:06 JR