What is Sativex?

Sativex is an oral spray containing a cannabis extract produced by GW Pharmaceuticals. You take it by spraying it under your tongue or to the inside of your cheeks. You can control the dose of Sativex you take by varying the number of sprays.

Sativex is approved as a prescription medicine in Canada for the treatment of neuropathic pain in people with MS.

 

What symptoms will Sativex help with?

Sativex can be prescribed as an unlicensed medicine for relief of symptoms associated with MS. It has not been specified for any particular symptom. Information from GW Pharmaceuticals says clinical trials conducted in people with MS have shown promising results in the relief of spasticity, nerve pain, sleep disturbance, and bladder symptoms.

 

Is Sativex being tested for its effectiveness in treating symptoms?

In clinical trials, Sativex has so far been used in people who have not gained adequate relief from their existing treatment. While a large proportion of people with MS are helped further during treatment with Sativex, some people may not improve at all.

There are currently two late stage clinical trials being conducted for Sativex. One involves 339 people with MS and is investigating Sativex’s effects on neuropathic pain. The results are expected mid 2008. The other trial is looking at the effects on spasticity. This trial is still recruiting and the results are due at the end of 2008. If these trials show Sativex is effective GW Pharmaceuticals will apply for a UK license for the treatment.
 

How can I get a prescription for Sativex?

As of 15 November 2005, GPs in the UK could prescribe Sativex as an unlicensed medicine, on a 'named patient' basis, for people with MS. 'Named patient' means that the prescribing GP takes the decision to prescribe it based on your individual circumstances.

Your doctor has the right to prescribe an unlicensed medicine, under his/her own responsibility, if he or she feels that it is in the best interests of the patient.


If the doctor and patient agree Sativex is appropriate, then they simply need to write a prescription. Sativex can be supplied by a pharmacist in order to fill the prescription. The only additional information required by the pharmacist in the case of Sativex, is confirmation of the reason why Sativex is being prescribed.

If your doctor requires any more information about this procedure, it can be obtained from GW Pharmaceuticals, at the number given at the right hand side of this page.
 

Why might my GP refuse to prescribe Sativex?

Your GP will take into account your particular circumstances and other factors and will make a decision based on your own case. There may be reasons that Sativex does not suit you.

Sativex is not suitable for everyone. It is also not recommended for some groups of people. For example, pregnant women, the under 18 year old age group, and those with a history of a psychotic disorder would not be eligible.
 

Can I get a second opinion if my GP refuses to prescribe it?

As with any treatment decision, you are entitled to a second opinion.  

What are the side effects? How will it react to the other drugs I take?

GW Pharmaceuticals has prepared detailed advice to GPs on warnings and precautions related to the use of Sativex. You should discuss this with your GP.  

Can I drive while taking Sativex?

Sativex may produce adverse reactions such as dizziness which may impair judgement and performance of skilled tasks. People taking Sativex should be advised not to drive, operate machinery or engage in any hazardous activity if they are experiencing these adverse reactions. Sativex has been known to cause loss of consciousness. 

Will I need to pay for Sativex?

The cost of Sativex is estimated to be around £4-£5 a day for a typical user. However, because Sativex is used according to each person's response, some people will use more, and some use less than the typical amount. Whether you have to pay for this will depend on local NHS arrangements and your GP or pharmacist can advise you further. This is in addition to standard prescription charges.