Author(s): Lim J.Z.; Abdelrahim S.; Alam U.; Wilding J.P.; Mon A.
Source: Diabetic Medicine; Mar 2019; vol. 36 ; p. 19-20
Publication Date: Mar 2019
Publication Type(s): Conference Abstract
Available at Diabetic Medicine – from Wiley Online Library Full Collection
Abstract:Introduction: Animal-based and some human studies identified potential benefits of cannabis oil use for diabetes. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved Sativex (50-50 mix of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol) for use in the United Kingdom (UK) for multiple sclerosis. From 1st November, doctors will be able to prescribe cannabis products in the UK for epilepsy and chronic pain. This will likely result in an increase in use of cannabis oil in clinical practice, especially as chronic pain is common in diabetes. We report a case of marked improvement in glycaemic and blood pressure control with cannabis oil use in a patient with Type 2 diabetes. Case report: A 67 year old gentleman with Type 2 diabetes for over 30 years with ischaemic heart disease, hypertension, peripheral neuropathy and congestive cardiac failure was diagnosed with a primary progressive form of multiple sclerosis, aged 61. Sativex (cannabis oil), specifically licensed to treat muscular spasms and stiffness in multiple sclerosis, was used under supervision of a neurologist in the private sector. Weight 90kg with body mass index (BMI) of 29.5kg/m2. After three months on Sativex, the patient reported relief from neuropathic pain. Glycaemic control improved; HBA1C (88 to 75MMOL/MOL) and capillary glucose (12-14mmol/l to 4-6mmol/l) improved without any hypoglycaemiaor change inbasal-bolus insulin (126units daily). Blood pressure improved from 152/98mm Hg to 99/62mm Hg without any change in antihypertensives. Conclusion(s): Improved blood pressure and glycaemic control could result from pain relief, better concordance or a direct effect of cannabis oil on glucose metabolism; further study in controlled trials is warranted. Acknowledgement: Obesity and Endocrinology Research Group.
Database: EMBASE