BioCeuticals funds world-first MedCann trial for malignant brain tumours

BioCeuticals has announced it will fund the world’s first clinical trial to investigate whether oral doses of medicinal cannabis can slow the growth of malignant brain tumours and ease symptoms suffered by patients.

The phase 2 randomised, double-blind clinical trial will determine whether orally-ingested medicinal cannabis can be safely tolerated by patients suffering from Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) – a highly aggressive form of primary brain tumour.

It will also investigate whether medicinal cannabis can affect tumour growth, when used alongside patients’ standard cancer treatments.

The Australian trial, which has ethics approval from the NSW Ministry of Health and the University of Technology Sydney, will be led by Dr Janet Schloss from Endeavour College of Natural Health, in conjunction with internationally renowned neurosurgeon Professor Charlie Teo.

BioCeuticals has invested more than $500,000 to fund the clinical trial.

BioCeuticals Managing Director Mr Eyal Wolstin said this significant investment recognised the importance of the trial and BioCeuticals’ commitment to the future of the healthcare industry.

“We are excited to be at the forefront of the fast-growing medicinal cannabis sector and to lead the way by supporting research that will provide medical practitioners with much-needed scientific evidence, which has the potential to transform the treatment of patients with aggressive brain tumours,” said Mr Wolstin.

Professor Charlie Teo said the trial was a great example of complementary medicine researchers working in conjunction with the medical fraternity to bring about better outcomes for patients.

BioCeuticals will also provide the whole plant extract medicinal cannabis for the treatment.

Recruitment for the trial has begun. Professor Charlie Teo will lead patient recruitment for the trial through his clinic at Prince of Wales Private Hospital, New South Wales. Endeavour College of Natural Health researchers will assess these patients and others with glioblastoma, who meet the inclusion criteria.

Patients who wish to take part in the trial can email trials@endeavour.edu.au or phone 07 3253 9582.