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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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Patients' groups welcome inquiry over medical cannabis
Ananova
Monday 18 Feb 2002 Moves which could see cannabis-based painkillers being made available on prescription within two years have been welcomed by patients' groups. Health Minister Lord Hunt says the use of cannabis derivatives to relieve pain in multiple sclerosis sufferers and post-operative patients is being referred to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. A spokesman for the Multiple Sclerosis Trust has described the move as very encouraging. Trials funded by the Medical Research Council - with the backing of the Department of Health and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society - to assess the use of cannabinoids in pain relief are already under way. The results are expected by the end of the year and will be used by Nice in carrying out its appraisal of the drugs. Nicola Russell, from the Multiple Sclerosis Trust said: "The decision to refer cannabis to Nice is a positive step. "The preliminary results of the ongoing clinical tests are very encouraging and this is further good news. "Our members say they have enjoyed great benefits from using cannabis but have found themselves prosecuted for possessing it. Action to tackle this situation is most welcome." Multiple sclerosis sufferer Lezley Gibson started smoking cannabis more than 10 years ago and says without the drug she would have no quality of life. Mother-of-one Mrs Gibson, who has been prosecuted for possession of the drug and is currently facing similar charges, said: "It will mean people who need the medicine like me will be able to get it without being made to feel like a criminal."
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