The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 268 No 7199 p705-712
25 May 2002

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News summary

NICE to look at evidence for using cannabis for multiple sclerosis

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence has been asked to examine the evidence for using cannabis derivatives for treating the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

The investigation will form part of the latest programme of work for NICE referred to it by the Department of Health and the National Assembly for Wales. Eight other technology appraisals and 12 clinical guidelines make up the rest of the work.

Technology appraisals:

1. Rituximab (Mabthera) for aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
2. Imatinib (Glivec) for first-line treatment of chronic myeloid leukaemia
3. Clopidogrel (Plavix) and dipyridamole for prevention of atherosclerotic events
4. Newer hypnotic drugs
5. Pegylated interferons for hepatitis C
6. Cannabis derivatives for multiple sclerosis
7. Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy
8. Drug eluting stents for prevention of restenosis
9. Prehospital intravenous fluid replacement therapy in trauma

Clinical guidance:

• Improving outcomes in sarcoma
• Tumours of the brain and central nervous system
• Skin tumours
• Referring suspected cancer
• Depression in children and young people
• Wound care management
• Nutritional supplements, enteral and parenteral feeds
• Osteoporosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Tuberculosis
• Long-acting reversible contraception
• Dental recall intervals