Cannabis-based drug for epilepsy gets boost in US

Doctors hopeful of India making a similar move

The prescription of plant-derived cannabidiol medicine, Epidiolex, for epilepsy, has been recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration Committee, which is a major boost for the industry.

The medicine can be used to treat seizures associated with childhood epilepsy. The chemical ingredients of cannabis are called cannabinoids. There are two main therapeutic components, which are tetraphydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).”

Dr Sai Kumar Katam, senior pharmacist explained, “THC produces psychotic and euphoric effects. But CBD is found to have a medicinal effect on the body and does not produce these effects. It is found to have a positive effect on the neurons and that is why it has been approved. This will now pave the way for two other drugs which are under clinical trials.”

However, in India, under the Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, the use of cannabis is restricted. Dr Jean Jacob, senior palliative care physician explained, “The mainstream use of cannabis-derived drugs is not possible as it is illegal in India. It is used only for certain purposes during religious ceremonies. Hence, for India to begin using this drug requires a change in the legislation.”

Dr Vijay K, ayurveda doctor explained, “The approval indicates that there is scope for medicinal cannabis. Ayurveda had uses for these ingredients, but after the ban by the government, the use of these have been restricted. Hence, it does open the horizons for many of the drugs which used this chemical.”