The drug, developed by GW Pharmaceuticals, has been shown in studies to be effective in easing severe pain. The company says the drug also can prevent muscle stiffness.

GW also is trying to get the spray approved for use in Great Britain and the U.S. "The deepness and polarity of the [marijuana] debate in the U.S. is unique," said GW chairman Geoffrey Guy. Company officials hope the Canadian decision pushes the U.S. to give the drug a fair review.

Sativex is made from a hybrid form of marijuana that is low in psychotropic agents but has high levels of helpful cannabinoids. "If you took all your eight-week supply in a few days you'd probably be very high," said MS patient Richard Payne, who has used the drug. "But I think people who suffer MS would rather have a better quality of life for eight weeks than have a couple of days where you don't know what's going on in the world."

FDA officials said they "continue to be receptive to sound, scientifically based research into the medicinal uses of botanical marijuana and other cannabinoids" and would "facilitate the work of manufacturers interested in bringing to the market safe and effective products."

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