Cannabis as a Treatment for Aggressive Brain Tumors: Aristocrat Trial
Patients battling aggressive forms of brain cancer often inquire if cannabis or CBD products could offer any relief, according to Dr. Jillian MacLean, a consultant clinical oncologist. Dr. MacLean is actively involved in studies taking place at Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff, focusing on this very question.
The studies are part of the UK-wide Aristocrat trial, which examines the efficacy of a cannabinoid oral spray in treating brain tumors, specifically glioblastomas. For patients diagnosed with a late-stage glioblastoma, the average life expectancy ranges between 12 and 18 months, and treatment options are scarce.
Families who have lost loved ones to this devastating condition have praised the research, lamenting the “cruel” and helpless reality they faced. The trial aims to assess the effectiveness of Sativex, a cannabis-based drug, in conjunction with chemotherapy for recurring glioblastomas.
According to Dr. MacLean, patients feel they have little to lose by exploring cannabis-based treatments. “We aim to empirically evaluate whether Sativex can indeed be beneficial. If so, this treatment should be made accessible to patients without them having to find alternative routes,” she said.
The Aristocrat trial has garnered financial backing from the Brain Tumour Charity and is spearheaded by researchers at Leeds University. Julian Edwards, whose wife Samantha was treated at the same center and passed away in December 2022 at age 53, described the initiation of the trial as “bittersweet.” He expressed his wish that Samantha could have benefited from more promising treatment options and lauded the “baby steps” that are being made in research.
Areesha Evans, who was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in April 2021 and died 10 months later at 35, also highlighted the urgent need for research. Her friend Annabel Jones stated that the speed of Areesha’s condition gave her little time to process what was happening. “We desperately need investment and research into this cruel condition,” she emphasized.
The Aristocrat Trial distinguishes itself as one of the initial studies primarily funded through crowdfunding. Dr. MacLean highlighted the frustration within the neuro-oncology community regarding the slow pace of advancements for brain tumors compared to other types of cancer. She believes the core challenge now lies in securing sufficient funding and establishing the infrastructure for further clinical trials.
The emergence of studies like the Aristocrat trial indicates a growing interest in leveraging cannabis-based treatments for cancer. While results are yet to be confirmed, the trial represents a beacon of hope for those affected by glioblastomas, a condition that has seen limited treatment breakthroughs.
