Medicinal cannabis shaping patient outcomes
4 September 2020
On Thursday 3 September NICM Health Research Institute hosted virtually the Medicinal Cannabis Research Update. Attracting over 200 researchers, academics, HDR students and industry members, the webinar showcased the diverse research occurring in Australia in the field.
NICM Health Research Institute chair of the webinar and medicinal cannabis research lead, Mr Justin Sinclair says there is great research being conducted in Australia, and research that is shaping patient outcomes.
“Dr Janet Schloss’ presentation on medicinal cannabis for glioblastoma multiforme, a type of brain cancer, highlighted various patient outcomes achieved in her study such as improvements in sleep, functionality, physical ability and quality of life,” said Mr Sinclair.
“Australian researchers are conducting important and much needed research in the field of medicinal cannabis, with scientific findings playing an integral role in shaping clinician prescribing and improving patient outcomes across numerous clinical indications.
“The presentations highlighted the importance of research and its role in the continuing evolution of the medicinal cannabis industry, both in Australia and internationally, particularly for patients whose current treatments or options may be suboptimal."
Leading Australian medicinal cannabis researchers from NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Southern Cross University, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, the University of Newcastle, the Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, and the University of Sydney presented their latest findings on cancer, women’s health, mental health, and cognition; preclinical research, and interesting survey work.
A broad range of questions were received including those relating to cannabis dose titration, the effect of cannabis on tumour growth, adverse events from product withdrawal in trials, the use of microdosing in animal models, stability of acids for clinical use, and the effect of contaminants on the therapeutic value of cannabis.
NICM Health Research Institute will now prepare for next year’s Medicinal Cannabis Symposium which will be held in person (pending COVID-19) on 12 August 2021.
A great line-up of national and international speakers will be announced shortly. To keep up to date on this symposium and for more information or to register visit: https://nicm.edu.au/news/events/nicm_hri_symposium_2021_medicinal_cannabis
