Cannabis Europa London 2023 Highlights Research Breakthroughs and Industry Challenges
Cannabis Europa London 2023 showcased pivotal research on cannabis's medical potential, honoring pioneers like Raphael Mechoulam and exploring future treatment avenues
Key Points
- 1Cannabis Europa London 2023 highlighted cannabis research advancements
- 2Tributes were paid to Raphael Mechoulam for his contributions to cannabis science
- 3Project Twenty21 showed cannabis's benefits in chronic pain and psychiatric disorders
- 4Research into cannabis for long COVID treatment shows promising early results
- 5Experts called for more clinical evidence to support the cannabis industry's growth
The second day of Cannabis Europa London 2023 delved into the history and future of cannabis research. Esther Farkash, a regulatory consultant, paid tribute to Raphael Mechoulam, a pioneer in cannabis research, highlighting his foundational work on THC and CBD. This set the stage for discussions on the evolution and impact of cannabis research
Raphael Mechoulam, often called the 'father of cannabis research,' was instrumental in understanding the endocannabinoid system. His career began with a unique opportunity to study cannabis, leading to over 700 scientific publications. His work laid the groundwork for modern medical cannabis treatments, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of modulating the endocannabinoid system
The event also featured Professor David Nutt, who presented findings from Project Twenty21, a groundbreaking study by Drug Science. This three-year study involving 3,000 patients demonstrated significant health improvements, particularly in chronic pain and psychiatric disorders. Patients reported better sleep and reduced anxiety, showcasing cannabis's potential as an alternative treatment
In addition to Project Twenty21, the conference explored cannabis's potential in treating long COVID. Hannah Thurgur from Drug Science shared insights from a feasibility study focusing on CBD's safety and effects on symptoms like fatigue and anxiety. Though limited in scale, the study offered promising results, encouraging further research in this area
The discussions at Cannabis Europa also touched on the need for robust clinical evidence to advance the cannabis industry in Europe. Experts emphasized the importance of integrating real-world data with controlled trials to enhance patient outcomes. This dialogue highlighted the industry's challenges and the need for continued research and innovation