During the last few years, the use of cannabis(marijuana) has gained significant popularity with many countries legalising its use.
Meanwhile, scientists and researchers increasingly examine the possible uses of the plant to treat mental and physical disorders.
Research groups from the University of Sydney, have teamed up to conduct the first ever clinical research with medical cannabis for chronic neuropatholic pain.
Dr Gaelle Emvalomenos is a researcher at the Brain and Mind Centre and actively contributes to this research as part of her postdoctoral placement.
“The main focus is on people who suffer from chronic pain”, Dr Emvalomenos said.
Even after three years of clinical treatment, Gaelle Emvalomenos said many people still experience pain.
“Chronic neuropathic pain does not harm the patient's life, however, it affects the quality of life, since it exhausts and immobilizes the patient.”
“We believe that cannabis can help these people, as the drugs that are available now are not effective.”
Cannabis is a complex plant with over 400 substances and about 80 cannabinoids, with the most known substance being THC.
She explained that research labs at the Brain and Min Centre focus on other elements of the plant, such as CBD, or as it is also called, medical cannabis, which is not a psychotropic substance.
"Medical cannabis research is still in its early stages and has not yet proven its effectiveness in this piece of research"
"One factor that complicates the research work is the complexity of the brain, as the data we extract is complex and requires thorough analysis," she added.
"Early indications seem to be positive, but we need to see if there are any adverse effects of this method."
If you are interested in taking part in the clinical trial, you can find more information on the website below.
Read and listen in Greek
Θεραπεία χρόνιου νευροπαθητικού πόνου με τη χρήση ιατρικής κάνναβης
SBS Greek
14/12/202305:38
