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Cannabis-based Clinical Trials for Glioblastoma Scheduled in March 2022

The largest clinical trial for recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a type of brain tumor, has begun. Led by Professor Susan Short of the University of Leeds, the trial is coordinated by the Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit at the University of Birmingham and involves 230 patients from 15 hospitals throughout the United Kingdom.

doctors looking at results from clinical trial patient

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), What is it?

Glioblastoma is a type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. It is formed from cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells. Glioblastoma is usually highly malignant (cancerous) because the tumor cells reproduce quickly and they are supported by a large network of blood vessels.

They are made up of different types of cells and tend to contain dead cells or cells that are not dividing. These tumors also have fingerlike tentacles that reach out and grow into other areas of the brain.

Glioblastomas are fast growing and difficult to treat, even with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. As a result, they are serious and life threatening.

The cannabis-based trials have been set up to provide evidence to see, if in-fact medical cannabis can be used as a form of treatment.

Phase II of Clinical Trails Set to Start in March 2022

A new clinical trial will investigate the effectiveness of cannabinoids in treating brain tumors.

The second phase of the clinical trial is set to begin in March 2022. It will focus on using cannabinoids for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The results from phase 1 of the study were published recently.

Currently, no effective treatment for GBM exists beyond surgery and radiation therapy. Even with these treatments, most patients experience recurrence at an average lifespan of just 15 months following their initial diagnosis.

“The data we have generated so far has been extremely promising,” said Dr. Liu to the Press Association. “And so we hope that the imminent phase II part of this study could confirm our findings and lead to a change in policy around cannabis-based medicines.”

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