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17/07/2014
Cannabis-Based Drug Legislation Welcomed
Legislation to introduce Sativex, a cannabis-based drug for multiple sclerosis sufferers, has been described as "long overdue".
Sinn Féin has welcomed the introduction of the oral spray by the Department of Health, with Deputy Seán Crowe saying: "Multiple Sclerosis affects more than 1.2 million people worldwide, including 600,000 people in Europe. Spasticity is one of the most common and most disabling symptoms of MS, effecting up to 84% of patients. It is widely recognised that currently available treatments are inadequate. Sativex has been developed as a treatment for the relief of symptoms in patients with moderate to severe spasticity. It will be very helpful for patients who have not been adequately treated with current therapies.
"This drug decision is long overdue and will be welcomed by most fair-minded people as giving a greater choice to MS sufferers. The fact that the drug comes from the cannabis plant and the price seem to be the reasons for the long delay in the Department of Health giving it the all-clear. It is currently available in other jurisdictions and some users say it has boosted their quality of life.
"For me it is a 'no brainer'. If it works for even a few, if it improves or eases the burden in a person’s life, if it eases MS symptoms, if it is safe to use, then why should it not be made available for sufferers.
"Proponents of Sativex also say it can make it easier for MS patients to move, can ease spasticity which if left untreated can lead to pressure sores, falls, and serious fatigue.
"As one MS patient said recently " If it gives me another treatment option and if it works then it’s great or even if it gives me even some relief, then bring it on."
It is hoped that the drug will help MS suffers with muscle spasms and be beneficial in alleviating bladder problems, sleep disturbance and muscle tremors.
(MH/IT)
Sinn Féin has welcomed the introduction of the oral spray by the Department of Health, with Deputy Seán Crowe saying: "Multiple Sclerosis affects more than 1.2 million people worldwide, including 600,000 people in Europe. Spasticity is one of the most common and most disabling symptoms of MS, effecting up to 84% of patients. It is widely recognised that currently available treatments are inadequate. Sativex has been developed as a treatment for the relief of symptoms in patients with moderate to severe spasticity. It will be very helpful for patients who have not been adequately treated with current therapies.
"This drug decision is long overdue and will be welcomed by most fair-minded people as giving a greater choice to MS sufferers. The fact that the drug comes from the cannabis plant and the price seem to be the reasons for the long delay in the Department of Health giving it the all-clear. It is currently available in other jurisdictions and some users say it has boosted their quality of life.
"For me it is a 'no brainer'. If it works for even a few, if it improves or eases the burden in a person’s life, if it eases MS symptoms, if it is safe to use, then why should it not be made available for sufferers.
"Proponents of Sativex also say it can make it easier for MS patients to move, can ease spasticity which if left untreated can lead to pressure sores, falls, and serious fatigue.
"As one MS patient said recently " If it gives me another treatment option and if it works then it’s great or even if it gives me even some relief, then bring it on."
It is hoped that the drug will help MS suffers with muscle spasms and be beneficial in alleviating bladder problems, sleep disturbance and muscle tremors.
(MH/IT)
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