An experimental cannabis-based epilepsy drug developed by GW Pharmaceuticals proved effective at reducing the frequency of seizures in a late-stage study, according to Reuters.
Epidiolex, a liquid formulation of pure plant-derived Cannabidiol, caused significant reductions in the monthly frequency of short-term seizures in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy.
The British drug company is testing Epidiolex in four different indications, with three of the forms relating to epilepsy.
The Food and Drug Administration granted all three indications with orphan drug designations, a status granted to drugs aimed at treating rare diseases that provides certain development incentives including a seven year marketing exclusivity in the U.S.
Shares of the company increased by 17 percent in response to news of the study's positive findings.
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