The use of complementary medicines, such as medicinal cannabis, is common in ALS. Early studies have shown that cannabinoids may extend survival and slow disease progression in animals with ALS. There are also anecdotal reports that cannabis may slow disease progression in people with ALS, and that it may alleviate the symptoms of spasticity and pain.
The EMERALD study is a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. This means that trial participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a cannabis based medicine extract or a placebo. A placebo drug contains no active ingredients. This study is designed to assess the safety, tolerability efficacy of the cannabis based medicine extract in slowing the progression of motor neurone disease. The team at the Gold Coast University Hospital will trat 30 patients over a period of six months.
The trial site and eligibility criteria are listed below. In order to take part in a clinical trial, you should first speak to your neurologist or MND Clinic. This medication will be taken daily and participants will undergo comprehensive neurological and diagnostic assessments every three months at the Gold Coast University Hospital. Monthly telephone calls will occur between visits.
Eligibility criteria
| QLD only | Gold Coast University Hospital | Dr Arman Sabet DEMSResearch@health.qld.gov.au Mr Berzenn Urbi Berzenn.Urbi@health.qld.gov.au 07 5687 6476 or 1300 744 284 |
For more information visit the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry
