An introduction to AKOS BIO’s C100 NOIA and B25 NOIA
Quadriplegia or a spinal cord injury often means managing a complex symptom picture day-to-day. Persistent pain, muscle spasms, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and changes in appetite can all affect quality of life, and many people find they need more than one approach to stay comfortable and functional.
Across South Africa, interest is growing in cannabis-based medicines as a potential additional tool within a clinician-led plan. For some individuals, cannabinoids may assist with symptoms such as neuropathic pain, spasticity, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and appetite changes when used responsibly, at appropriate doses, and with proper professional oversight.
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Why standardised, medicine-grade products matter
Many people in the spinal cord injury community are already familiar with cannabis in one form or another. The key difference with regulated cannabis-based medicines is consistency and accuracy:
- Known cannabinoid content (so dose can be measured and adjusted reliably)
- Repeatable effects from one bottle to the next
- Structured titration (start low, go slow) to find the lowest effective dose
- Professional oversight to improve safety, especially when other medicines are involved
AKOS BIO provides medicine-grade, standardised formulations with pharmacist support to help individuals and their clinicians approach cannabinoids carefully and systematically.
Two options: CBD-dominant vs balanced CBD + THC
1) C100 NOIA (CBD-dominant)
C100 NOIA is a CBD-dominant formulation and is typically used when people are looking for symptom support without intoxication.
Under medical guidance, CBD-dominant products may be considered for:
- Baseline discomfort and inflammatory-type pain
- Anxiety or a ‘wired’ nervous system feeling
- Sleep support (especially settling and night waking)
- Daytime use where clear-headedness is important
CBD is often approached as a foundation option, with dosing increased gradually over time until a meaningful benefit is seen or until a clinician advises reassessment.
2) B25 NOIA (balanced CBD + THC)
B25 NOIA is a balanced formulation containing both CBD and THC. THC can be helpful for some individuals, but it also increases the likelihood of side effects, so the most important principle is start low, go slow, and dose mainly in the evening at first.
Under clinician supervision, balanced products may be considered for:
- Spasticity (including night spasms)
- Neuropathic pain that remains difficult to control
- Sleep initiation and night-time comfort
- Situations where a stronger symptom effect is needed
Because THC can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or impairment, titration needs to be cautious and individualised.
Practical safety: what to discuss before starting
Cannabis-based medicines are not one-size-fits-all. They should be treated like any other prescription therapy, with attention to medical history and current medicines.
Before starting, it’s wise to discuss:
- All current medicines and supplements, including pain medicines, antidepressants, sleep aids, antispasmodics, and anti-epileptics
- History of low blood pressure, falls, dizziness, anxiety sensitivity, or psychiatric vulnerability
- Work, driving, or caregiving responsibilities (particularly relevant for THC-containing options)
- Your goals: pain relief, fewer spasms, better sleep, reduced anxiety, appetite support — and how you’ll measure success
Possible side effects
Side effects vary by person and product type, but may include:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Dry mouth
- Appetite changes
- With THC: impaired coordination, anxiety, or feeling ‘too sedated’ (more likely at higher doses or rapid titration)
This is why slow titration and pharmacist support are central to safe use.
Access, guidance, and support
AKOS BIO supports individuals and their clinicians with:
- Standardised cannabis-based medicines
- Structured titration guidance (start low, go slow)
- A specialist pharmacist to help with practical dosing questions and safety considerations
- A clinician-led approach that respects existing treatment plans
Medical scheme reimbursement may be possible in some cases, depending on scheme rules and individual authorisation (AKOS BIO can advise on what information is typically required).
Find out more (WhatsApp support)
If you’d like to explore whether a CBD-dominant option (C100 NOIA) or a balanced CBD + THC option (B25 NOIA) might be appropriate you can contact the AKOS BIO team.
WhatsApp our pharmacist on: 066 269 1108
Website: www.akos-bio.com
