Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease characterized by the destruction of insulating covers on nerve cells by the immune system. The most common form for the disease, relapsing-remitting MS, is characterized by clearly defined attacks of decreasing neurologic function (relapses) followed by partial or complete recovery periods (remissions). Research into novel therapy approaches continues to investigate safer, more effective alternatives to the currently approved MS therapies. The use of cannabinoid-based therapies in particular appear to show promise for controlling relapses in those with the disease.

MMJ PhytoTech, a drug development company working on cannabinoid-based therapies, plans to initiate clinical studies of new capsule formulations derived from cannabis for the treatment of MS later this year. Their phase 1, safety-oriented clinical studies have been approved by various ethics committees and public health organizations. The company has been actively investigating a new capsule that offers many advantages over smokeable cannabinoid formulations, as oral administration is...