Could marijuana chewing gum treat IBS? Scientists testing US-made product to ease colon spasms that cause crippling bowel condition Dutch researchers are testing a US firm's cannabis gum to treat IBS Irritable bowel syndrome affects 3.5 million Americans a year Scientists believe CBD - an ingredient in cannabis - could ease colon spasms that cause bloating, cramps, constipation and diarrhea Cannabis-laced chewing gum could cure irritable bowel syndrome, scientists believe. Until now, doctors have struggled to find an effective treatment for the condition, which affects around 3.5 million Americans a year. But a team at Wageningen University in the Netherlands claims CBD - a key property in marijuana - could ease the colon spasms that seem to be the root cause of symptoms. Next month, the trial will begin, testing a cannabis-infused chewing gum made by US firm Medical Marijuana Inc. Doctors have struggled to find an effective treatment for the condition, which affects around 3.5 million Americans a year. But Dutch researchers believe a cannabis-laced gum could work WHAT IS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME? SYMPTOMS The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) vary between different people. Most sufferers complain of: feeling bloated abdominal discomfort, or pain, which often comes in spasms erratic bowel movements bouts of diarrhea and constipation CAUSES There is no known cause for IBS. Many people with IBS find that their symptoms can be affected by their diet, and their emotions, especially stress. Studies suggest it could be caused by spasms in the colon. WHO IS AFFECTED? IBS can affect people of any age. But it seems to be more common in young people. Women are most commonly affected, with 60 percent of IBS sufferers female, compared to 40 percent male. Patients will be allowed up to six chewing gums a day to control their stomach cramps, bloating, pain and other symptoms. 'The cost to society in terms of direct medical expenses and indirect costs associated with loss of productivity and work absenteeism tied to IBS is considerable,' Dr Titus said. AXIM believes CanChew products could also treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. A spokesman said they are ready to proceed immediately with further trials on its pharmaceutical grade if this trial is a success. LARGEST EVER MARIJUANA STUDY SAYS MOST OF THE DRUG'S MEDICAL BENEFITS 'UNPROVEN' The largest ever report on marijuana's effects last week dismissed most of the drug's other supposed 'medical benefits' as unproven. Crucially, the researchers concluded there is not enough research to say whether marijuana effectively treats epilepsy - one of the most widely-recognized reasons for cannabis prescriptions. The report also casts doubt on using cannabis to treat cancers, irritable bowel syndrome, or certain symptoms of Parkinson's disease, or helping people beat addictions. The experts called for a national effort to learn more about marijuana and its chemical cousins, including similarly acting compounds called cannabinoids. In fact, the current lack of scientific information 'poses a public health risk,' said the report, released by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. Patients, health care professionals and policy makers need more evidence to make sound decisions, it said. Several factors have limited research. While the federal government has approved some medicines containing ingredients found in marijuana, it still classifies marijuana as illegal and imposes restrictions on research. So scientists have to jump through bureaucratic hoops that some find daunting, the report said. A federal focus on paying for studies of potential harms has also impeded research into possible health benefits, the report said. The range of marijuana products available for study has also been restricted, although the government is expanding the number of approved suppliers. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for a variety of medical uses, and eight of those states plus the district have also legalized it for recreational use. Source
