AXIM Begins Clinical Trials with CBG Ointment

AXIM Biotechnologies, a Netherlands-based biotechnology company, announced that it would be entering clinical trials with its patent-pending cannabigerol (CBG) topical ointment formulation AX-1602, the company said in a May 16, 2016 press statement to BioPharm International. AX-1602’s indications for the Phase I trials include psoriasis and eczema (atopic dermatitis). Marcus Meinardi, PhD, MD, a dermatologist and specialist on psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, will be leading the trials, which will take place at The Maurits Clinics in The Hague.

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the plant genus Cannabis. Previous research has indicated that cannabinoids, such as CBG, may have therapeutic value in the treatment of skin conditions. Among other clinical uses, CBG can be used by patients to reduce muscle spasm and pain, and contains anti-inflammatory properties, according to research in the journal Drugs. A study in the Journal of Dermatological Science indicated that cannabinoids have the potential to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation, which means it may support a role in the treatment of psoriasis.

In a statement, Lekhram Changoer, chief technology officer of AXIM said, “AX-1602 ointment will be tested with different concentrations of cannabinoids and will be placebo controlled. Following the successful completion of this clinical trial, AXIM products will be registered as an ointment for various skin disorders.” AXIM also has other drugs in its pipeline including cannabinoid-release chewing gum, a CBG-based skincare product line, a CBG-based oral care product line, a cannabinoid-release suppository for gastrointestinal diseases, and a cannabinoid-based product for relief from conjunctivitis.

Other companies have also been testing the efficacy of cannabinoids for the treatment of various diseases. GW Pharmaceuticals, a London-based biopharmaceutical company, completed Phase III studies with its investigational medication, Epidiolex (cannabidiol or CBD) for the treatment of Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy. Clinical trials revealed the drug reduced monthly convulsive seizures by 39% over the 14-month treatment period. Epidiolex has received Fast Track and Orphan Drug designation from FDA. In March 2016, FDA gave permission for Catalent Pharma Solutions to import pharmaceutical-grade CBD to conduct feasibility studies with Kannalife Sciences.

Source: AXIM Biotechnologies