Frequently Asked Questions

General information

  • At the moment, Endosane does not offer any treatments or products. Endosane is in the process of developing a CBD treatment for schizophrenia.

  • We take pride in our work and would not be as successful without our team of dedicated people. If you are interested in becoming a part of a scientific, creative, dynamic and innovative group of people in a hard-working but rewarding environment, please contact us via our contact form or visit our careers page to find out about our job opportunities.

  • Please monitor our website, www.endosane.com, for any research updates.

  • Feel free to connect with us by filling in the contact form, or explore us on LinkedIn. Join the Endosane Pharmaceuticals community and stay up to date with our latest news and research.

Clinical trials

  • The different phases of a clinical trial are designed to test a new treatment in a step-by-step process, from initial safety checks in a small group of people (Phase I) to larger trials to confirm effectiveness and monitor side effects (Phase II and III), and finally post-marketing surveillance (Phase IV).

  • Some common misconceptions about clinical trials include the belief that participants are used as "guinea pigs", that participation leads to a loss of control over personal health information, that clinical trials are only for people with terminal illness, or that clinical trials are dangerous. In reality, clinical trials follow strict ethical guidelines and regulations to protect participants.

  • Endosane financially supports the clinical trial CBD-ESPRIT sponsored by Central Institute of Mental Health in Mannheim. Please feel free to check their website, www.cbd-esprit.de to learn more about the study, eligibility and participating centers.

  • Every person who meets the specified inclusion criteria is eligible to participate in the clinical studies supported by Endosane. Specifically, individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia can take part in the CBD-ESPRIT study (financially supported by Endosane, sponsor: Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim). For further details regarding the specific exclusion and inclusion criteria, we encourage you to visit www.cbd-esprit.de

  • To enroll in the clinical trial CBD-ESPRIT, we kindly request that you fill in our designated contact form for all inquiries on www.cbd-esprit.de. We will review your information for eligibility and contact you as soon as possible.

Medical advice and CBD

  • No. Endosane cannot provide medical advice, and individuals should consult their healthcare professionals for personalized information and guidance related to their specific health concerns.

  • Cannabidiol (CBD) is a main component of natural cannabis preparations, i.e., a substance that is naturally built by the hemp plant. Unlike other components of the hemp plant, CBD does not have intoxicating effects and does not pose a risk of developing addiction. Dive deeper int CBD research.

  • No. Endosane Pharmaceuticals supports randomized, controlled trials studying efficacy and safety of CBD, but does not provide a preparation for individual healing attempts.

  • No. At this early stage of development, we do not believe that self-initated therapeutic attempts are warranted. In particular, given the lack of long-term safety data, insufficient data on its efficacy and optimal dosing, and varying qualities of CBD on the market, we do not recommend the use of CBD for the self-initiated treatment of any diseases independent from controlled, registered clinical trials.

  • CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) are two main natural components of the cannabis plant that have different effects. Unlike THC, CBD does not induce so-called altered states of consciousness or psychotic symptoms, and has no known addictive potential.

  • In the context of schizophrenia, CBD is believed to influence the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which is linked to the pathology of psychosis.

  • To date, the active ingredient cannabidiol has not yet been approved for the treatment of schizophrenia. In 2019, EPIDYOLEX (active ingredient: cannabidiol) was approved by the European Commission as an add-on therapy for rare forms of epilepsy in children (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome). Cannabidiol has already been evaluated in a clinical trial for its efficacy in acute schizophrenia compared to the antipsychotic amisulpride (Leweke et al., 2012, www.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00628290).

    Both treatments were found to be safe and resulted in significant improvement in symptoms, but fewer side effects occurred with cannabidiol treatment. Another clinical trial reported antipsychotic properties of CBD when administered as add-on to standard antipsychotic treatment McGuire et al. 2018, www.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02006628). However, long-term data on the efficacy and safety of CBD in schizophrenia are still lacking.

Neuropsychological Disorders and Research

  • Endosane focuses on neurpsychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, social anxiety and PTSD.

  • The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is expressed throughout the human body. The system, which maintains a state of equilibrium/balance named homeostasis, is composed of endocannabinoids, enzymes, and receptors. Together, they respond to changes in our internal and external environment, thereby balancing our physiological functions. The ECS is involved in numerous processes from developing the brain and the synapses within to modulating numerous body functions. It regulates our mood appetite, pain, and countless other integral aspects impacting our wellbeing (Scherma et al., 2019). As such, its proper functioning is vital for both our physical and mental health.

  • Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by a plethora of symptoms that affects the way a person thinks, acts, expresses emotions, perceives reality, and relates to others.

  • To receive a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is necessary to have experienced at least one traumatic event. These events encompass situations involving the experience or witnessing of threatened death, actual or threatened serious injury, or actual or threatened sexual violence. Instances can involve direct exposure to the trauma, observing it, or being informed that a family member or close friend was exposed to such an event.

  • Currently, the available antipsychotic drugs control the symptoms of schizophrenia but do not cure the condition. The main drugs used to treat schizophrenia are usually called antipsychotics. They are especially effective against so-called positive symptoms of schizophrenia but far less effective against negative and cognitive symptoms.

  • The brain acts like a complex computer, transmitting messages between neurons like a symphony. Factors set the brain's messaging 'settings' for balance, termed 'homeostasis'. Sometimes, the brain struggles to maintain this balance due to various reasons. This enduring imbalance, similar to a computer glitch, can lead to mental health conditions like schizophrenia. It's not a personal fault, but a brain messaging issue that medical professionals can often manage or treat.

  • In 1997, Prof. Markus Leweke (Co-founder of Endosane) co-established the cannabinoid hypothesis of schizophrenia, marking a significant milestone in his work. He focused his research on psychiatric disorders and their association with cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system. Currently, Professor Leweke continues his studies on psychiatric disorders and the potential of cannabinoids to address their profound impact on individuals' lives. Endosane aims to explore and research the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in treating psychiatric conditions.

  • When a partner or family member develops a mental illness, it can be a challenging and emotional situation. It is important to respond in an empathetic and supportive way.

    • Show understanding of your loved one's feelings and experiences and listen carefully.

    • Educate yourself about the specific mental illness to gain a better understanding of its symptoms and effects.

    • Offer your support and encourage your partner or family member to seek professional help, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist.

    • Take the condition seriously and avoid trivialising or ignoring it because it reflects the subjective reality of your loved one.

    • Focus on enabling your loved one instead of arguing about symptoms. Securing or restoring the capacities to reach small and larger goals in life is often more effective and essential than focusing on symptoms.

    • Remember that it is important to look after your own health and well-being too, as caring for a loved one with a mental illness can also be stressful.

    • Support from professionals and self-care can help you deal with the situation appropriately and provide your partner or family member with the support he or she needs.

  • To support mental health research:

    • Participate in studies.

    • Participate in patient and public involvement initiatives or engage in research communities

    • Spread awareness and reduce stigma.

    • Encourage open conversations and educate yourself and others.

    • Donate to research organizations or advocate for funding.

  • If a family member is participating in a clinical trial, it is important to respond in an empathetic and supportive way.

    • Respect your family member's privacy and personal choices and avoid pressuring them.

    • Educate yourself about the study to gain a better understanding of its purpose and process.

    • Offer your support, whether it is emotional support or practical help.

    • Find an exchange with other family members or friends to share your feelings and concerns if needed.

    • Remember that medical research is of utmost importance to gain new knowledge and develop therapies that can benefit many people.

    • Ultimately, it is crucial to respond to your family member's decision with respect, understanding and empathy and to support them during the study process.

    • 112 is the national emergency number for fire and ambulance in Germany.

    • 110 is the national emergency number for police.

    • Telefonseelsorge (http://www.telefonseelsorge.de/) (24/7, no cost): 0800 111 0 111, or 0800 111 0 222, or 116 123, or by online chat at https://online.telefonseelsorge.de/

    • International Helpline Berlin provides emotional support to people in Germany who are in distress or at risk of suicide. Tel: 030-44 01 06 07

    • Nummergegen Kummer (Elterntelefon) offers free and anonymous telephone advice throughout Germany. The line is available from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday until 7 p.m. Tel: 0800 111 0 550

    • Deutsche Depressionshilfe (German Depression Aid): Provides information, resources, and support for individuals dealing with depression.
      Phone: 0800 33 44 533 (Helpline)
      Website: www.deutsche-depressionshilfe.de

  • Yes, we are consistently interested in forming partnerships with patient organizations to gain a deeper understanding of patient needs. We believe it is crucial, as Endosane, to provide patients with a platform to voice their perspectives in research. Clinical trials and drug development directly impact them, and they are the ones navigating through these processes. Therefore, if your patient organization is interested in collaborating with us and contributing to our committee for consultation on clinical trials and research, please feel free to reach out by sending us a message.

  • Helplines, also known as hotlines or crisis lines, offer free immediate crisis counseling, emotional support, and information for various mental health and emotional struggles, such as anxiety, depression, gender or sexual identity, and substance use. Available via phone, text, or online chat, most helplines operate 24/7, providing a judgment-free space to discuss emotions and connect with resources. Find A Helpline's and Help's Guide algorithms recommends suitable helplines, allowing further filtering based on specific needs. For assistance in locating the right helpline, visit https://findahelpline.com/ or https://www.helpguide.org/find-help.htm.

Support and information