Cannabis inhalers: study launched for cancer-related pain

Cannabis metered-dose inhalers to treat cancer patients, That's what they're going to test Israeli pharmaceutical companies Rafa and Panaxia during a clinical trial. This trial is part of the process to obtain marketing authorization for the device, which the two partner companies hope to bring to market this year. This would be a minor revolution in the world of medical cannabis, which is still struggling to determine the optimal routes of administration for the drug.

A New Administration Solution for Patients

Cannabis inhalers already exist, and some Israeli startups are currently working on the concept. However, this is the first time that this type of device has been the subject of a clinical trial aimed at approving this method of administration as part of a specific therapy—in this case, for neuropathic pain (related to cancer).

Alternatives to patches already exist, such as sprays or capsules, but the advantage of administration via an inhaler is the rapid onset of pain relief. The product is designed to provide immediate relief. As Dr. Itay Gur-Aryeh, director of the Pain Unit at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, explains: «The inhalation route of administration is characterized by a faster response than oral or sublingual tablets.».

Another advantage of this inhaler is its precision. Preloaded with cannabis concentrates, the vaporizer inside the inhaler allows the patient to precisely measure the amount to be administered. The concentrate’s formulation ensures accuracy in terms of active ingredients, enabling the patient to precisely replicate the dose recommended by their doctor.

«By providing access to cannabis inhalers and with a specialist’s recommendation, we are striving to help more patients suffering from acute pain. »The inhaler will give patients who are unable or unwilling to smoke the right to receive effective and targeted treatment,” explains Dr. Dadi Segal, the CEO of Panaxia.

The clinical trial aims to obtain approval from the Ministry of Health to confirm the efficacy and safety of the metered-dose inhaler delivery method. The inhaler, designed by Panaxia, is scheduled to be marketed this year by Rafa Pharmaceuticals.