People in England with severe epilepsy will be able to routinely access a cannabis-based treatment on the NHS from January 6 – while Scottish patients await a decision on the drug.
Epidyolex, a cannabidiol oral solution, was recommended for use on the NHS to treat two rare types of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes, in November.
Clinical trials have shown the drug could reduce the number of seizures by up to 40% in some children.
NHS England estimates 2,000 people could benefit.
Currently, Scottish doctors can only apply to prescribe the drug on a case-by-case basis.
A change in the law in 2018 made it legal for doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis but many doctors have been reluctant to do so, citing a lack of clear guidance on prescribing and issues over funding.
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “The SMC is carrying out an appraisal of the medicine and a decision is due next year. In the meantime, doctors can apply to use the medicine on a case-by-case basis through the Peer Assisted Clinical System.”
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