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A new clinical trial conducted by the University of Sydney in Australia showed that a cannabis-based drug called nabiximols could combat cannabis addiction and minimize the relapse rate of users.
A university publication, in alliance with the New South Wales Department of Health (NSW Health), in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, indicates that the drug agonist cannabinoids target brain receptors.
Nabiximols is a cannabis concentrate composed of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is formulated to be sprayed under the tongue.
Licensed in Australia, the drug is primarily used to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis pain.
In the last trial, 128 participants were treated with an average dose of 18 sprays of nabiximols per day for 12 weeks. Each 0.1 ml spray contains 2.5 mg of CBD and 2.7 mg of THC.
According to the results, nabiximols led to a significantly less illicit cannabis consumption compared to placebo.
Nick Lintzeris, a professor at the Sydney School of Medicine, said, "We have never had evidence that drugs can be effective in treating cannabis addiction. This is the first major study to show that it is a safe and effective approach. "
"The principles are very similar to those of nicotine replacement. Patients are offered safer medication than the medication they already use, and you combine that with medical support and counseling to help people cope with their illegal use of cannabis. "
During the trial, the drug was badociated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic support.
The researchers reported suppression of withdrawal and cravings, as well as improvements in physical and psychological well-being.
Lintzeris added, "Our study is an important step in addressing the lack of effective treatments. Currently, four out of five patients regain regular use within six months of a medical or psychological intervention. "
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