GREEN LIGHT Ireland set to legalise cannabis to help treat multiple sclerosis, cancer

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GREEN LIGHT Ireland set to legalise cannabis to help treat multiple sclerosis, cancer and epilepsy patients.



Despite a government-ordered report warning of a lack of evidence over the drug?s safety and effectiveness, Dublin?s Health Minister Simon Harris has given the green light for its use in certain circumstances.

Mr Harris said he will establish an access programme for cannabis-based treatments for conditions ?where patients have not responded to other treatments and there is some evidence that cannabis may be effective?.

These will include multiple sclerosis sufferers, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and epileptics.

?I believe this report marks a significant milestone in developing policy in this area,? said Mr Harris.

?This is something I am eager to progress but I am also obligated to proceed on the basis of the best clinical advice.?



However, it added any decision on legalising its use is ultimately one for society and government to make.

The HPRA advised if cannabis is to be legalised, it should be used only under strict circumstances for:

Spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis resistant to standard treatments;
Nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy;
Severe treatment-resistant epilepsy.

Mr Harris confirmed he will set up ?a compassionate access programme for cannabis-based treatments? and is now considering any changes in the law needed for its operation.

Pressure has been mounting in Britain for similar moves.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/2834...epsy-patients/