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Emblem Announces Exclusive Agreement with Canntab Therapeutics for Cannabinoid Based Oral Sustained Release Formulation

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PARIS, Ontario, Oct. 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emblem Corp. (TSXV:EMC) (EMC.WT) (“Emblem” or the "Company") announced today that it has entered into a Collaboration and Licensing Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Canntab Therapeutics Limited (“Canntab”) of Toronto. Canntab has developed a patent-pending oral sustained release formulation for cannabinoids (the “Sustained Release Product” or the “Product”). Under the Agreement, Emblem and Canntab will collaborate on the preclinical formulation, clinical development, regulatory approval, manufacturing and commercialization of the Sustained Release Product.

The Agreement grants to Emblem the exclusive right in Canada to Canntab’s patents and know-how for the purpose of developing, commercializing, using, selling, and offering the Sustained Release Product for sale under the Emblem brand. The License does not include the right to import or export the Product.

The Sustained Release Product will be manufactured by Emblem or by Canntab, after Canntab receives appropriate licensing allowing such manufacture.

The Agreement calls for Emblem to make payments to Canntab upon achievement of certain milestones involving stability studies, bio-availability studies and regulatory approval of the Sustained Release Product. The Agreement also calls for Emblem to make royalty payments to Canntab based upon Gross Sales of the Product.

Emblem and Canntab also intend to collaborate on the preclinical formulation, clinical development, regulatory approval and commercialization of a range of additional cannabinoid containing pharmaceutical formulations.

Background

There is substantial evidence that cannabinoids are effective for the treatment of a number of conditions including (i) chronic pain (ii) nausea, (iii) anxiety and sleep disorders, and (iv) spasticity in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

Most conventional (immediate release) dosage forms, such as tablets and capsules, release the active drug component immediately after oral administration. In the formulation of conventional drug products, no deliberate effort is made to modify the drug release rate. Sustained release dosage forms are designed to release the active pharmaceutical ingredient at a predetermined rate in order to maintain a constant drug concentration over a specific period of time – resulting in a longer duration of action from a single dose and often with reduced side effects. Generally this is done to achieve an improved therapeutic outcome and/or to enhance patient compliance. Immediate release dosage forms of cannabinoids tend to lose therapeutic effects in 4 to 6 hours requiring subsequent re-administration and the risk of reduced patient compliance.

The Sustained Release Product is designed to release the cannabinoid content over a period of at least 12 hours. Sustained release formulations of pharmaceutical products are particularly valuable in the treatment of chronic conditions, such as chronic pain, where patients tend to need “around the clock” relief. There is substantial evidence that cannabis is effective for the treatment of numerous conditions including neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is estimated to affect over two million Canadians and the pharmaceutical market addressing the needs of those patients was about $500 million in 2016.

John H Stewart – Head of Emblem’s Pharmaceutical Division said: “There are numerous examples of drug products where the utilization of advanced dosage forms such as sustained and/or modified release dosage forms significantly improved the efficacy and clinical utility of the active drug substance. We believe that cannabinoid therapy will be advanced via the development of such dosage forms and the associated pharmacokinetic and clinical research.  Sustained release formulations of pharmaceutical ingredients that are otherwise short-acting (such as cannabinoids) have more convenient dosage schedules, a longer duration of action and tend to be much more accepted by patients and healthcare professionals.   Emblem expects that the introduction of easily titratable, sustained release formulations of cannabinoids will materially increase the market for cannabinoid-based medications, particularly for treatment of conditions such as chronic neuropathic pain.”  

Jeff Renwick, Canntab CEO said:  “We’re excited about the collaboration between us and Emblem.  It is a testament to the medicinal delivery technology developed by our team at Canntab. It also allows us to bring to the Canadian market a significant advancement in Cannabis based medicine. Canntab’s patent-pending extended release formulation for the first time lets doctors establish the appropriate dosage for their patients and will make taking medicinal cannabis easier for patients, which should translate into higher patient compliance, making for more effective treatment. The ongoing relationship with Emblem allows for further development of our unique platforms, advancing our mission to put the “medical” into medicinal cannabis.”

Gordon Fox, CEO of Emblem said: “We are very excited about our relationship with Canntab. We expect the Sustained Release Product to have a major impact on the Canadian medical cannabis market.  We are also looking forward to further collaborations with Canntab to bring other ground-breaking cannabis based advanced dosage forms to the market.”

About Emblem

Emblem is licensed under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (the “ACMPR”) to cultivate and sell medical marihuana. Emblem carries out its principal activities producing marihuana from its facilities in Paris, Ontario pursuant to the provisions of the ACMPR and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Canada) and its regulations.

About Canntab

Canntab Therapeutics Limited is a Canadian cannabis oral dosage formulation company based in Markham Ontario, engaged in the research and development of advanced pharmaceutical grade formulations of cannabinoids. Canntab has developed in-house technology to deliver standardized medical cannabis extract from selective strains in a variety of extended/sustained release pharmaceutical dosages for therapeutic use. Simply put, Canntab's mission is to put the "Medical" into medicinal cannabis!

For further information contact:

Ali Mahdavi

Emblem Corp.

(416) 962-3300

alimahdavi@emblemcorp.com

 

Ethan Karayannopoulos

647-748-9696

ethank@emblemcorp.com

   

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "achieve", "could", "believe", "plan", "intend", "objective", "continuous", "ongoing", "estimate", "outlook", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "should" or similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes.

In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements relating to, among other things: (i) the arrangement and Agreement with Canntab; (ii) the benefits of the relationship with Canntab; (iii) potential sales of oil and the value thereof; (v) the ability of the Company to produce high quality dried flower; (vi) the intention to grow the business, operations and potential activities of the Company; (vii) the benefits associated with cannabinoids for the treatment of illness and disease; and (viii) receipt of approval from Health Canada to complete such activities.

Management of the Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date hereof but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. Various material factors and assumptions are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking statements. Those material factors and assumptions are based on information currently available to the Company, including data from publicly available governmental sources as well as from market research and industry analysis and on assumptions based on data and knowledge of this industry which Emblem believes to be reasonable. However, although generally indicative of relative market positions, market shares and performance characteristics, such data is inherently imprecise. While Emblem is not aware of any misstatement regarding any industry or government data presented herein, the medical marijuana industry involves risks and uncertainties and is subject to change based on various factors.

Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are subject to and involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause the Company's actual performance and results to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks identified in the Company's filing statement dated November 30, 2016 and in the Company's short form prospectus dated March 16, 2017 both of which have been filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedar.com. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such statements to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise.

This news release contains future-oriented financial information and financial outlook information (collectively, "FOFI") about Emblem's prospective results of operations,  sales, revenues, funds flow, and components thereof, all of which are subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations, and qualifications as set forth in the above paragraphs. FOFI contained in this news release was made as of the date of this document and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about the Company's future business operations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FOFI contained in this news release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required pursuant to applicable law. Readers are cautioned that the FOFI contained in this news release should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

What Can Canadian Companies Expect if They Have Marijuana Stock Interest in the United States

Canadian companies who are on the forefront of the country’s medical and soon-to-be recreational marijuana business have some of the fastest growing stock interests in their home country. As well it should be – Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau and the Canadian government last year announced plans to legalize cannabis for recreational use nationwide come July of 2018. 

However, some of these companies are publicly traded on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE). The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), has largely shied away from listing companies that have interests in the United States, however it does possess all Canadian equity trades via its clearing house the Canadian Deposit for Securities. 

This means that companies needing to raise money have raced to CSE to do so. Often these funds are being raised to fund U.S. opportunities. These companies are allowed to list on CSE so long as there is adequate disclosure. However, in the case that TMX decides to stop clearing trades, a viable alternative is necessary. And it’s one that CSE executive Richard Carlton is actively seeking. 

It’s Still Challenging for the US Funding and Investing for Marijuana Industry

In comparison to the United States, where funding and investing a marijuana company even in legalized states remains difficult, money is flooding into Canadian-listed stocks. However, a decision to take a tougher line on Canadian capital markets could spell disaster for the possible expansion of Canadian companies looking to invest in U.S. states where marijuana is legal. 

Indeed, many of the companies that investors have fallen in love with are currently increasing their footprint in the United States. If they do not already have interest in the United States, they are planning to do expand. However, there’s a catch. These companies are mandated by TMX to remain in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where they operate. 

Why Aphria Should be Concerned? 

Aphria, one of Canada’s rising investment stars, has reason to be concerned. As part of its investment strategy, it is planning on making a $25 million investment in Florida, where medical marijuana is legal, yet it remains illegal recreationally. In fact, 10 new companies that are cultivating marijuana in preparation for next year’s impending legalization. The entire industry has eyes on a possible large market: The United States. Where marijuana is still federally illegal, putting the stock exchange in a precarious position when it comes to listing marijuana companies that have interests in the United States. 

While TMX is currently allowing Aphria to remain listed, even with its plans for expansion in Florida, it has taken a harder approach for other companies. For example, Canadian Biotechnical Corporation left the TSX Venture Exchange after being told it could not pursue recreational marijuana interests in the United States. Conversely, Ottawa-based CannaRoyalty Corp has the bulk of its assets in the United States and is listed on the Canadian Securities exchange. 

The two rivals are taking different approaches when it comes to listing companies with U.S. interests. Not only is the CSE allowing for tiny, unlicensed companies to list, it is also allowing U.S. based corporations to trade, where they are barred from doing so domestically. 

Summary of the Current Status

While those with U.S. interests are looking to TSX to clarify its rules regarding companies listing on the exchange, some think that Canadian companies should avoid involvement and expansion into the U.S. entirely. They believe that institutional investors in the burgeoning market should feel confident that their investments are not funding illegal activities. 

While the federal government has yet to make a move against states where cannabis is legalized recreationally and medically, it is no secret that many in the Trump administration, including U.S. attorney general Jeff Sessions, are taking a hard line on federal marijuana policy. Unlike modern day vapes , which are a sensitive topic as well but are not banned in both countries, marijuana is illegal on the federal level. This is certainly a cause for some concern for investors and regulators in the Canadian market. 

It’s no better in the United States, where investors looking to take advantage of the boom in Canada and the growth of marijuana stocks there. The United States Drug Enforcement Agency has been tracking U.S. investments in the Canadian marijuana industry. When inquired by Reuters about the DEA’s view of U.S. investments in Canadian marijuana, spokesman for the DEA Robert Payne said that the agency is “most interested in those types of activities.” 

Author

Michael is a marketing and creative content specialist at GotVape.com with a primary focus on customer satisfaction. 

Invest In MJ Editor Notes:

The article above was provided by Michael and are his opinions from his research. The views expressed above are not necessarily the opinions of Invest In MJ and we suggest you conduct your own research and speak to your financial advisor as to the accuracy of the information contained in the article.

We at Invest In MJ are aware that the United States government still has cannabis as an illegal drug and that does bring lots of question and concerns for investor as to the legality of investing in the cannabis sector.  At the state level, cannabis companies are opening up and setting up shop, many of them looking north to Canada for raising capital.  While the DEA may be interested in activities in the cannabis space, they have yet to stop investment in the space. 

Many companies in Canada and the United States have raised capital from all around the world in record numbers; we do not think that trend will change.  The fact that no regulator has stopped the progress of capital raises or companies from trading on the exchanges should be kept in mind.  While some companies may not have business interest or operations in the US, many are moving forwards with their plans to enter the US market in States where cannabis is legal medically or recreational.

Please consult your financial and legal advisor before making any investment decisions.

 

COSTA MESA, CA--(Marketwired - Mar 22, 2017) - NEMUS Bioscience, Inc. (OTCQB : NMUS ) and the company's discovery and research partner, the University of Mississippi (UM), today announced that bactericidal synergy was achieved against multiple species of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) utilizing a proprietary cannabinoid-based therapeutic platform. MRSA species tested included community acquired- (CA-MRSA), healthcare-acquired- (HA-MRSA), and mupirocin-resistant (MR-MRSA) strains of MRSA. 

In vitro studies demonstrated that when using unique strategic cannabinoid-based cocktails, fractional-inhibitory concentration (FIC) levels demonstrating synergy between mixtures of individual cannabinoid-based components ranged from 0.06 to 0.28. FIC findings below 0.5 indicate significant killing potential of the mixture.

"This work highlights the importance of Nemus' relationship with the University which has significant experience and intellectual capital related to cannabinoid chemistry and physiology, dating back to 1968," stated Brian Murphy, M.D., C.E.O. and Chief Medical Officer of Nemus. "These unique botanically derived components establish an anti-infective platform which could potentially be expanded into other types of bacteria, as well as viruses, and fungi."

Dr. Mahmoud ElSohly, professor at the National Center for Natural Products Research (NCNPR) at the University of Mississippi commented: "The University, in conjunction with Nemus, is looking to expand the anti-infective capabilities of this series of compounds. Historically, many types of anti-infective compounds are derived from plants so to have a series of cannabinoid-related compounds exhibit activity against this dangerous pathogen is in keeping with prior efforts of drug development. I believe that these compounds, in addition to the bacterial killing capability, could also offer benefits associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties that could enhance healing, especially against an organism associated with skin and soft tissue infections."

"This anti-infective platform will constitute the NB3000 series of Nemus molecules and formulations. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) placed MRSA on their list as one of the top six organisms that pose a global public health threat. While there are a number of compounds in the development pipeline against MRSA, we believe that this family of drug candidates could possess an excellent safety profile in addition to efficacy in neutralizing this bacterium," stated Dr. Murphy. "Nemus will work with Dr. Elsohly, the University lead researcher on this project, to have this data submitted to a future scientific meeting and anticipates performing further testing against a variety of other bacterial species. Commercially, the company looks to actively pursue partnering opportunities for these candidate molecules."

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements about the studies relating to and the potential benefits of the NB3000 series of drug candidates as well as the timing of our near term, intermediate term and long term goals. Such statements and other statements in this press release that are not descriptions of historical facts are forward-looking statements that are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, our business, operating results, financial condition and stock price could be materially negatively affected. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology including "goal," "focus," "aims," "expects," "plans," "believes," "can," "could," "challenge," "predictable," "will," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. We operate in a rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. As a result, it is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements the Company may make. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, our capital resources, uncertainty regarding the results of future testing and development efforts and other risks that are described in the Risk Factors section of NEMUS's most recent annual or quarterly report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as expressly required by law, NEMUS disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Marijuana Stocks haven’t risen much after the U.S. Elections and the win by Donald Trump.
The five states have voted on full legalization, while four other states could legalize medical marijuana.
Here are the results: California, Massachusetts, Maine and Nevada have voted to legalize recreational marijuana in their states, while Arizona rejected its measure.  Four other states — Arkansas, Florida, Montana and North Dakota — passed ballot measures legalizing medical marijuana.    A recent poll suggests a majority of Americans support the legalization of Marijuana, now with these new states voting in favor of marijuana reform and legalization we could be on the way toward a majority of citizens living in a state that allows for some form of legal marijuana.

Canadian Market Overview

The Canadian cannabis sector continues to be blazing hot over the last year, especially in the last 2 months.  The following chart shows the performance of the Canadian marijuana sector in general, the Marijuana Index Canada  contains a list of 10 publicly traded Canadian companies in the space, their stock prices and market caps.  Just looking at this chart, there has been a parabolic rise in share price since May of this year.  Most parabolic rises like this are usually followed by a correction and then a basing period before any further advances can be made.  The chart does show a clear break out and passed overhead resistance, this means we are in a new bull market for cannabis stocks in Canada.  We will provide an update on the American cannabis sector shortly.