Copeia seeks to counter controversial cannabis companion survey

The survey by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) is intended to answer, among other things, the question as to which indicators cannabis is reimbursable. Copeia is conducting its own survey for comparison.

The accompanying survey by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) on the use of medicinal cannabis in Germany is due to end on March 31. Among other things, the study will largely determine the indications for which cannabis remains reimbursable. Now there is another cannabis study that is causing a stir: the Berlin start-up Copeia is conducting its own companion survey among cannabis patients, as the website Pharmacy Adhoc reports.

What are Copeia's motives? The BfArM's companion survey is controversial. Many experts were not convinced by the study design. In addition, the study is said to be of little significance. For example, it does not take into account half of the cannabis patients because they are self-pay patients or privately insured. Furthermore, not all patients with statutory health insurance are to be included: The data should primarily come from patients who take the semi-synthetic cannabis derivative dronabinol. Important information on the course of treatment with cannabis flowers and extracts is therefore probably missing.

Copeia now wants to collect more useful data. 50 pharmacies are supporting the company in the project. A huge network is also on board, consisting of associations, companies, medical staff, manufacturers, wholesalers and pharmacies, among others. The nationwide survey on the course of therapy started on January 17 and ends on April 30. The data will be scientifically validated and published. Anesthesiologist Dr. André Ihlenfeld, who is also Copeia's Medical Director, is leading the study. Although it will not be able to replace the BfArM study, it will provide other important data.

Among others, the managing director of the company Garvin Hirt and the owner of the Cologne pharmacy Lux99 Tobias Loder are involved in Copeia. The company's product is a specially developed portal. It is designed to support pharmacists, doctors and patients in their treatment. It is intended to bundle a wealth of important information for therapy under one roof.