Almirall says Sativex is available to health professionals and patients in hospital pharmacies in Spain. It is the first specific treatment for spasticity in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients who have not responded adequately to other treatments. Sativex is administered as oromucosal spray enabling flexible dosage, which is particularly appropriate given the variable nature of spasticity and MS itself. It is an endocannabinoid modulator made of two actives: THC (delta-9-tetrahidrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

Clinical trials have shown Sativex has a positive impact on spasticity, sleep quality and mobility, and enables patients to carry out everyday tasks such as getting up, getting dressed or washing. This affords patients greater independence and reduces the frequency of spasms. It is estimated in Spain there are around 40,000 people with MS and up to 75% of them suffer from spasticity.

 Sativex, which has been developed by GW Pharmaceuticals, is also in phase III clinical development for the treatment of cancer pain, as the next indication following MS spasticity. Almirall holds the marketing rights to this medicine in Europe (except the U.K.).