SRINAGAR: Scientists at the Council of Industrial and Scientific Research-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) in Jammu have reported promising leads for drug development from cannabis, commonly known as Bhang or Charas, Jammu newspaper Daily Excelsior reported. Their research indicates that certain compounds derived from the plant could play a significant role in alleviating cancer-related pain, treating epilepsy, and offering therapeutic benefits for various other ailments.
The newspaper quoted its sources at CSIR-IIIM, revealing that before these drugs can be introduced for human use, they must be manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) conditions and undergo rigorous clinical trials. Given the legal and regulatory framework surrounding cannabis, this process requires special permissions and licensing from the relevant authorities.
The Medicinal Chemistry Research Group at CSIR-IIIM has led the study, which, the newspaper added, has completed essential preclinical stages, including animal experimentation and extraction processes, as well as chemical standardisation and markers quantification. However, further progress is contingent upon obtaining necessary approvals for the transportation of scientific materials required for GMP batch manufacturing, as well as conducting Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) safety, toxicological, and formulation studies.
IIIM Director Dr Zabeer Ahmed confirmed to the newspaper that the institute has sought mandatory approval from the Excise Department for the transportation of research materials and GMP batch manufacturing for clinical trials. He further stated that the Excise Department has formulated the relevant rules and forwarded the file to the Finance Department, which is currently reviewing the proposal. Once the Finance Department approves, IIIM will proceed with GMP-based manufacturing and the transportation of cannabis research materials to different sites for GLP regulatory toxicity and safety studies.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 has imposed severe restrictions on Bhang, significantly hindering research and development efforts in this area. Recent studies, however, have identified two major compounds in cannabis: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). While THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, it has also demonstrated potential therapeutic value when administered in controlled dosages. On the other hand, CBD lacks psychoactive properties and possesses remarkable therapeutic benefits.
Based on their findings, scientists at IIIM assert that cannabis-derived compounds could revolutionise pain management, particularly in cancer and rheumatic conditions. Besides, these compounds may help reduce nausea and vomiting, suppress seizure activity, and combat anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. If regulatory approvals are secured, this research could pave the way for groundbreaking medical advancements, offering new hope for patients suffering from chronic and debilitating ailments.
