HEAD INJURY TRIAL FOR CANNABIS-TYPE DRUG

PATIENTS with major head injuries are being given a cannabis-type drug
to discover if it can limit brain damage.

Doctors at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh are taking part
in international tests of new drug dexanabinol.

Based on chemicals found in cannabis, it is hoped it can improve the
outcome for victims of road accidents and assaults.

Serious head injuries are the most common cause of death and
disability in young Britons.

The drug stops chemical changes caused by head injuries which make the
brain "self-destruct".

Consultant Peter Andrews said: "Early trials on around 150 patients
showed that brain swelling was much less in patients who were given
it."

A total of 1000 patients will be taking part in the trial in 69
medical centres across Europe and the US.