Awakn Life Sciences Signs MOU With MAPS

Awakn Life Sciences Signs MOU With MAPS

Agreement to explore a partnership for MDMA-Assisted Therapy for treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder in Europe

TORONTO, CANADA, 19 January 2022 – Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (NEO: AWKN) (OTCQB: AWKNF) (FSE: 954) (‘Awakn’), a biotechnology company developing and delivering psychedelic therapeutics (medicines and therapies) to treat Addiction, announced today it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) to explore a partnership to utilize MDMA-assisted therapy to treat Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in Europe. 

Under the terms of this MOU, Awakn will explore a data licensing agreement with MAPS to support Awakn’s Phase IIb and planned Phase III studies for MDMA-assisted therapy for AUD in Europe. Awakn and MAPS will also assess a partnership to secure marketing authorisation/regulatory approval for the ethical commercialization of MDMA-assisted therapy for the treatment of AUD in Europe. 

AUD is a chronic disease affecting 40 million people in Europe and 390 million people globally. It is also a pervasive and persistent public health issue, with alcohol use being one of the top five causes of disease and disability in the majority of countries in Europe. And for each person suffering from AUD, there is a friend, a partner, or a family also deeply affected by it.

In February 2021, Awakn announced the publication of the successful results of the BIMA Phase IIa study investigating MDMA-assisted therapy for the treatment of AUD, reporting a 21% relapse rate at 9 months in comparison to a 75% relapse rate in a separate observational group.

In May 2021, MAPS announced that it achieved successful results in its first of two Phase III trials for MDMA-assisted therapy for the treatment of severe chronic PTSD. In this study, 88% of participants who received three MDMA-assisted therapy sessions – along with twelve 90-minute, non-drug preparation and integration therapy sessions – experienced a clinically meaningful reduction in symptoms. 67% of participants no longer qualified for a PTSD diagnosis.

“MAPS’ role in driving and advancing the use of psychedelics in the clinical setting over the last 35 years is second to none,” said Anthony Tennyson, Awakn’s CEO. “We believe that by licensing MAPS’ pre-clinical data and exploring options for future ethical commercialisation, we will improve the timeline and path to market for these life-changing treatments for AUD, providing hope for those for whom the status quo is not working.” 

“MAPS has been working with AWAKN scientists for decades in the effort to initiate trials into a range of clinical uses of MDMA-assisted therapy,” shares Rick Doblin, Founder and Executive Director of MAPS. “We’re delighted to be entering into this MoU with AWAKN which holds great promise for people suffering from AUD.”

Awakn also recently announced groundbreaking results from its Phase IIa/b ‘Ketamine for the Reduction of Alcoholic Relapse’ (KARE) clinical trial. It was the first controlled study in the world to investigate Ketamine-assisted therapy for the treatment of AUD and was published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in January. The study, conducted by the University of Exeter (UoE) and led by Prof. Celia Morgan, Professor of Psychopharmacology at UoE and Awakn’s Head of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy for addiction showed that ketamine and psychological therapy resulted in an 86% abstinence rate 6 months post treatment, an increase from 2% before the trial.

“This is another milestone in the advancement of successfully treating Alcohol Use Disorder,” said Awakn CMO Dr. Ben Sessa. “Currently there are millions suffering with very few promising lasting treatments and be it with MDMA or Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, we are exploring every promising avenue to treat a disease that not only impacts the individual, but also families and communities.”

NOTE

The safety and efficacy of MDMA-assisted therapy is currently under investigation. It has not yet been approved by medical regulators, does not work for everyone, and carries risks even in therapeutic settings. These statements are no guarantee of future regulatory approval or availability of MDMA-assisted therapy. These statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from our projections.

About MAPS

Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS is sponsoring the most advanced psychedelic therapy research in the world: Phase 3 clinical trials of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. Since its founding, MAPS has raised over $130 million in donations and grants for psychedelic and marijuana research and education and has earned both the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency and a 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator. Learn more at maps.org.

About Awakn Life Sciences Corp.

Awakn Life Sciences is a biotechnology company, researching, developing, and delivering psychedelic therapeutics to better treat addiction. Awakn’s team consists of world leading chemists, scientists, psychiatrists, and psychologists who are advancing the next generation of psychedelic drugs and therapies to be used in combination.

 www.awaknlifesciences.com  |  Twitter  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events or the Company’s future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “continues”, “forecasts”, “projects”, “predicts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “targets” or “believes”, or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved the intended business of the Company, the expansion of the Company’s business, generation of revenue. All forward-looking statements, including those herein are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Investor Enquiries:

KCSA Strategic Communications 
Valter Pinto / Tim Regan 
Phone: +1 (212) 896-1254
Awakn@KCSA.com

Media Enquiries:

America and Canada: KCSA Strategic Communications  
Anne Donohoe 
Adonohoe@KCSA.com

Rest of World: ROAD Communications 
Paul Jarman / Anna Ramsey
Awakn@roadcommunications.co.uk

Awakn Life Sciences Announces The Findings From Phase II A/B Study Are To Be Published In American Journal Of Psychiatry

Awakn Life Sciences Announces The Findings From Phase II A/B Study Are To Be Published In American Journal Of Psychiatry

Worlds’s First Controlled Study To Investigate Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

TORONTO, CANADA, November 4, 2021 – Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (NEO: AWKN) (OTCQB: AWKNF) (FSE: 954) (‘Awakn’), a biotechnology company developing and delivering psychedelic therapeutics (medicines and therapies) to treat addiction, announced today that the ‘Ketamine in the Reduction of Alcoholic Relapse’ (KARE) psychotherapy intervention study, which was the first controlled study in the world to investigate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, will be published in the American Journal of Psychiatry later this year. The study was conducted by University of Exeter (UoE) and led by Prof. Celia Morgan, Professor of Psychopharmacology at UoE and Awakn’s Head of Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for addiction. Awkan has acquired the rights to this research.

The findings, which will be shared in detail in the journal, are a very exciting step forward in the treatment of alcohol use disorder and for the wider psychedelic industry in general. The phase II a/b trial had four groups, ketamine with and without therapy, and placebo administered with and without therapy.

Professor Morgan commented “We are delighted that the findings are to be published in the American Journal of Psychiatry. This new approach looks set to revolutionise the treatment of alcohol use disorder. We are excited to partner with Awakn for the next steps in the journey of ketamine-assisted therapy into a licensed treatment for this group of patients with limited treatment options.”

With ketamine already a licenced medicine, the phase II a/b results allow Awakn to deliver the KARE treatment in its clinics in the UK and Europe immediately and through its licencing partnerships outside of these territories. The University of Exeter and Awakn are investigating how best to move this research forward to a pivotal phase III trial, which ultimately would allow it to be delivered ‘on label’, meaning it could be adopted by public health systems and covered by insurers.

Following the study, Dr. Morgan’s research team also interviewed participants in the trial and published an analysis of their experiences in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry entitled, “This Is Something That Changed My Life: A Qualitative Study of Patients’ Experiences.” A brief selection of quotes from the paper below, show the life-changing effect the treatment had on them and crucially how it changed their relationship with alcohol.

It helped family wise, relationship wise, in every, every single avenue of my life, It’s changed it.

I wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for it. I can definitely say that.

I feel I have much less desire to drink now than I used to. And I think what it is, I actually, I think I enjoy it less now

I think before the trial all my life was sort of focused around alcohol. I was either drinking it at home or selling it to students or working in an event where there was alcohol, the alcohol was a focus of it. So it was sort of everything and then afterwards, it just sort of stopped.

Chief Executive Officer of Awakn, Anthony Tennyson commented; “This is a very exciting moment for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. For so many people who are suffering from alcohol addiction, for whom the current treatments just aren’t working, a successful phase II a/b trial and a unified ambition to progress this forward to a pivotal trial, gives real hope to those seeking a better and healthier future.”

About Awakn Life Sciences Corp.

Awakn Life Sciences is a biotechnology company with clinical operations, developing and delivering psychedelic therapeutics (medicines and therapies) to better treat addiction. Awakn’s team consists of world leading chemists, scientists, psychiatrists, and psychologists who are developing and advancing the next generation of psychedelic drugs, therapies, and enabling technologies to treat addiction. Awakn will deliver these evidence backed psychedelic therapies in clinics in the UK and Europe and through licensing partnerships globally.

www.awaknlifesciences.com  |  Twitter  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events or the Company’s future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “continues”, “forecasts”, “projects”, “predicts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “targets” or “believes”, or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, including statements relating to the proposed NEO listing, and the business of the Company. All forward-looking statements, including those herein are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the statements. There are certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information. These include: whether conditions to the listing on NEO will be satisfied; the business plans and strategies of the Company, the ability of the Company to comply with all applicable governmental regulations in a highly regulated business; the inherent risks in investing in target companies or projects which have limited or no operating history and are engaged in activities currently considered illegal in some jurisdictions; changes in laws; limited operating history; reliance on management; requirements for additional financing; competition; inconsistent public opinion and perception regarding the medical-use of psychedelic drugs; and regulatory or political change. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date or dates specified in such statements.

Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For more information on the Company, investors are encouraged to review the Company’s public filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company’s and Awakn’s securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Investor Enquiries:
KCSA Strategic Communications
Valter Pinto / Tim Regan
Phone: +1 (212) 896-1254
Awakn@KCSA.com

Media Enquiries:
America and Canada: KCSA Strategic Communications
Anne Donohoe
Adonohoe@KCSA.com

Rest of World:
ROAD Communications
Paul Jarman / Anna Ramsey

Awakn@roadcommunications.co.uk

PharmaDrug Expands Product Offering to Prepare for Potential Adult Use Market in Germany

PharmaDrug Expands Product Offering to Prepare for Potential Adult Use Market in Germany

Toronto, Ontario – November 1, 2021 – PharmaDrug Inc. (CSE: PHRX) (OTCQB: LMLLF) (“PharmaDrug” or the “Company“), a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the research, development and commercialization of controlled-substances and natural medicines such as psychedelics, cannabis and naturally-derived approved drugs, is pleased to announce that its 100% owned cannabis and controlled substance distributor Pharmadrug Production GmbH (“Pharmadrug Production“) has expanded its product offering with a goal to increase its pharmacy network and sales volume as it prepares for the significantly increased potential of cannabis adult use legalization in Germany.

In the immediate term, the Company has signed a supply agreement for Dronabinol, a synthetic THC oil that currently dominates the medical cannabis oil market in Germany. Pharmadrug Production has already added the product to its license and first shipment is expected this week. Sales efforts have already begun with first customer deliveries slated to begin in the current quarter. Management believes the selling of Dronabinol will serve to increase sales volumes, but should also significantly increase its pharmacy distribution network beyond its current levels. The Dronabinol is a third party product and Pharmadrug Production will act as a distributor much like its Bedrocan business. The Company is in advanced discussions with two separate manufacturers to be able to supply Dronabinol on a white label basis to be branded as a PharmaDrug product.

During the month of October, Pharmadrug Production conducted the final inspection of its supply partner in Denmark. The visit was deemed successful with the newly built cannabis oil extraction facility fulfilling all the necessary requirements to be able to supply GMP calibre THC oils to the German medical cannabis market. The Company has registered the initial product with the regulator, and it has been added to its controlled substance license. The initial product will be a PharmaDrug branded high THC oil. It is currently going through confirmatory stability testing with final results and certificates of analysis scheduled for this coming January. Once launched, PharmaDrug and its Danish supply partner have planned to introduce other oils including a balanced CBD / THC oil.

While the Company recently made the decision to focus its growth on cannabis oils and extractions, management believes the outcome of the recent election and the likelihood of adult use on the horizon requires a renewed focus on cannabis flowers. As expected, recent trends showed that cannabis oil growth is accelerating and is on a path to overtake flowers at some point in the future. That being said, the introduction of adult use should reignite the flower market. As such, the Company has resumed discussions to introduce a unique brand of flower to the German market. Such a product can either take the form of a third-party brand with an exclusive relationship and marketing sovereignty or a unique white label product that will carry the PharmaDrug brand.

Daniel Cohen, CEO of PharmaDrug commented, “We are extremely excited to be able to introduce new products in the immediate to short term. Adult use cannabis in Germany is a game changer and the next eighteen months will be a crucial time for strategic positioning. We are confident that the Company is making the right moves to increase its pharmacy network and establish PharmaDrug as a recognized brand in the German cannabis market.”

On a final note, PharmaDrug was able to increase its ownership of Pharmadrug Production to 100% at the end of August. The Company had originally purchased 80% of the German distributor in May of 2019. The previous owner and holder of the final 20% went through some personal financial difficulties thereby enabling PharmaDrug to purchase the remaining equity stake at a sharp discount to both IFRS book value and what management believes to be fair market value. PharmaDrug’s management and board believe this opportunity came at the right time given the current German political landscape and high potential for the introduction of legal adult use cannabis.

German Adult Use Legalization

Following the recent German federal elections that took place on the 26th of September, a new coalition government is expected to be formed by the “Traffic Lights” group. The coalition was so named due to the colours of the red Social Democrats, yellow Free Democrats and the Green Party. The formal coalition agreement is expected by the end of November with an official government to follow in the first half of December. All three parties support the legalization of adult use cannabis. While it’s a fundamental platform for the Green Party, it is believed that the other two groups support it due to the need for additional government revenue in light of a strong campaign promise for no new additional taxes.

Discussions so far have pointed to a form of a cannabis control act. This would imply a regime where cannabis remains a controlled substance that would be subjected to stricter controls than alcohol or tobacco. The Green Party is advocating for specialty stores while the more conservative Free Democrats would prefer sales to remain in pharmacies. Regardless of the end retail model, two major themes have emerged. Firstly, there is a strong likelihood that adult use will be legalized in the next couple of years; and secondly, it will probably remain a controlled substance but with expanded access. This would imply that the current supply chain regulatory framework will remain in place and that the importation and distribution of cannabis will continue to require a narcotics or controlled substance license. A license that the Company currently has with Pharmadrug Production.

About PharmaDrug Inc.

PharmaDrug is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the research, development and commercialization of controlled-substances and natural medicines such as psychedelics, cannabis and naturally-derived approved drugs. PharmaDrug owns 100% of Pharmadrug Production GmbH (“Pharmadrug Production”), a German medical cannabis distributor, with a Schedule I European Union narcotics license and German EuGMP certification allowing for the importation and distribution of medical cannabis to pharmacies in Germany and throughout the European Union. PharmaDrug recently acquired Sairiyo Therapeutics (“Sairiyo”), a biotech company that specializes in researching and reformulating established natural medicines with a goal of bringing them through clinical trials and the associated regulatory approval process in the US and Europe. Sairiyo is currently developing its patented reformulation of cepharanthine, a drug that has shown substantial third party validated potential for the treatment of Covid-19 and rare cancers. Sairiyo is also conducting R&D in the psychedelics space for the treatment of non-neuropsychiatric conditions. The Company also owns 100% of Super Smart, a company building a vertically integrated retail business with the goal to elevate the use of functional mushrooms, and psilocybin mushrooms where federally legal, as natural based medicines.

For further information, please contact:

Daniel Cohen, Chairman and CEO
dcohen@pharmadrug.co
(647) 202-1824

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED NOR DOES IT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “proposed”, “is expected”, “budgets”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information in relation to: the development and commercialization of cepharanthine, the results of the Company’s research and development in the psychedelics space and the development of the Supersmart business . This forward-looking information reflects the Company’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company and on assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to the ability of the Company to successfully execute on its plans for the Company and its affiliated entities; the ability to obtain required regulatory approvals and the Company’s continued response and ability to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic being consistent with, or better than, its ability and response to date.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; the actual results of the Company’s future operations; competition; changes in legislation affecting the Company; the ability to obtain and maintain required permits and approvals, the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals; risks related to the COVID-19 pandemic including various recommendations, orders and measures of governmental authorities to try to limit the pandemic, including travel restrictions, border closures, non-essential business closures, service disruptions, quarantines, self-isolations, shelters-in-place and social distancing, disruptions to markets, economic activity, financing, supply chains and sales channels, and a deterioration of general economic conditions; and a deterioration of financial markets that could limit the Company’s ability to obtain external financing.

A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Company’s disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

The Company’s securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or applicable state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the United States or “U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulations under the U.S. Securities Act, absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. However, the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.

Creso Pharma to enter Swiss medicinal cannabis market

Creso Pharma to enter Swiss medicinal cannabis market

Highlights:

  • Non-binding LOI secured with Innuana AG Switzerland, a licensed cannabis grower to enter the Swiss medicinal cannabis market
  • Innuana will grow medicinal cannabis based on Creso Pharma’s specifications – Creso Pharma to market to doctors and patients
  • LOI has the potential to significantly broaden Creso Pharma’s product offering for the Swiss market, with sales to add to the Company’s growing revenue profile
  • Execution of LOI follows recent Swiss law amendments providing a more favourable operating environment and highlight ongoing acceptance of medicinal cannabis
  • Initial sales focus with oncologists and oncological clinics in Switzerland – Creso Pharma will benefit from established relationships with the medical community over several years
  • Unlocks a large market opportunity for Creso Pharma –expected to be over 110,000 medicinal cannabis patients in 2022i in a market growing to $1.9Bn in value by 2028ii
  • Creso Pharma to leverage established networks with doctors and clinics in the Swiss market to drive growth
  • With the new laws, the commercial export of cannabis for medical purposes will also be permitted providing additional opportunities
  • Expansion of Swiss operations highlights the Company’s broader global scale up

Creso Pharma Limited (ASX: CPH, OTC: COPHF FRA:1X8) (‘Creso Pharma’ or ‘the Company’) is pleased to advise that it secured a non-binding Letter of Intent (“LOI”) with a licenced cannabis grower Innuana AG, Switzerland (“Innuana”) to grow and market medicinal cannabis for the burgeoning
market in Switzerland.

Innuana is focused on the research, growing, processing and production of medicinal grade cannabis. The group has been involved in cannabis cultivation, breeding and research for several years. Innuana has an established reputation in Switzerland and in October 2021, received one of the initial public
orders to grow cannabis by the local government to cover the needs of the City of Zürich in 2022 and beyond.

Both Creso Pharma and Innuana have executed the LOI agreement following recent amendments to the Swiss Narcotics Act in March 2021, which facilitates the patient access for the use of medicinal cannabis in Switzerland.

Following the change of the regulations, the cultivation, processing, production and trade of medicinal cannabis will become subject to the authorisation and control system of the Swiss agency for therapeutic products, Swissmedic. Accordingly, treatment with medicinal cannabis will no longer require an exceptional authorization by FOPH (Federal Office of Public Health)iii.

The legislative shifts will enable Creso Pharma to expand its Swiss operations and enter into the Swiss medicinal cannabis market. Under the LOI, Innuana will grow and produce medicinal cannabis products to the Company’s specifications, which Creso Pharma will sell and distribute to patients.

The initial term of the agreement is one year (“Initial Term”) and will automatically renew after one year (“Renewal Term”), unless either party notifies the other of their decision to not renew the agreement within 30 days prior to the expiry of the Initial or Renewal Term. Initial Term and Renewal
Terms are subject to termination for cause upon notice by either party, or upon failure to meet the above referenced renewal conditions. Should the parties not enter into a formal commercial agreement on or before 30 December 2022, the LOI shall automatically terminate.

Creso Pharma will bring in its medical and pharmaceutical expertise for the growing specifications, and the marketing and use of the product. Creso will also leverage its established relationships with prescribers and clinics in Switzerland to drive prescription sales growth.

Initially, Creso Pharma will focus on the Swiss market, which provides access to a potential 110,000 Swiss patients in 2022i in a market expected to grow to CHF1.3Bn (A$1.9Bn) by 2028ii. Additional expansion efforts into other countries will follow in due course.

Creso Pharma’s Director of International Operations, Mr Jorge Wernli said: “Recent regulatory shifts in Switzerland have unlocked a significant opportunity for Creso Pharma and this collaboration with Innuana marks the first step in our expansion into the Swiss prescription market.

“Healthcare professionals will now be able to prescribe medicinal cannabis products to a large range of patients and importantly this agreement will allow Creso to grow cannabis to its own specifications, utilising pharmaceutical experience and product expertise.

“Initially, we will focus on Switzerland with the medium-term objective to export the products into countries with similar opportunities.”

-Ends-

Authority and Contact Details
This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Directors of Creso Pharma Limited.

For further information, please contact:
Investor Enquiries
Creso Pharma Limited
E: info@cresopharma.com
P: +61 (0) 497 571 532
Enquiries can be texted to +61 (0) 497 571 532

Released through:
Ben Jarvis, Six Degrees Investor Relations: Ph: +61 (0) 413 150 448
ABN: 89 609 406 911
Suite 5 CPC, 145 Stirling Highway, | Nedlands, WA, 6009 | Australia
Allmendstrasse 11 | 6310 Steinhausen | Schweiz
CresoPharma.com
(ASX: CPH)

About Creso Pharma
Creso Pharma Limited (ASX:CPH) brings the best of cannabis to better the lives of people and animals. It brings pharmaceutical expertise and methodological rigor to the cannabis world and strives for the
highest quality in its products. It develops cannabis and hemp derived therapeutic, nutraceutical, and life style products with wide patient and consumer reach for human and animal health.

Creso Pharma uses GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) development and manufacturing standards for its products as a reference of quality excellence with initial product registrations in Switzerland. It has worldwide rights for a number of unique and proprietary innovative delivery technologies which
enhance the bioavailability and absorption of cannabinoids. To learn more please visit:
www.cresopharma.com

About Innuana
Innuana is a GMP grade, licensed cannabis grower based in Switzerland with indoors and outdoors
growing operations. It employs upwards of 20 people and is a subsidiary of Uana Holding AG. In
October 2021, Uana Holding received an order from the city of Zürich to produce cannabis to cover its
needs. Innuana differentiates itself through its extensive strengths and skillset, including

  • Expertise in plant breeding, GMP and medical hemp know-how
  • Existing business as a basis
  • Own and rented fields including cultivation
  • Controlled cultivation areas with all required regulatory approvals
  • Technical expertise
  • Stable core team with unique expertise
  • Outstanding pioneering know-how in SGF 3 (medical cannabis)
  • Leading market recognition

Creso Pharma offices:
Australia
Suite 5 CPC, 145 Stirling Hwy, Nedlands, WA, 6009
Switzerland
Allmendstrasse 11, 6310 Steinhausen, Schweiz
Canada
59 Payzant Driver, Windsor, Nova Scotia, B0N 2TO
Canada
50 Ivey Ln, Windsor, Nova Scotia, B0N 2TO

Forward Looking statements
This announcement contains forward-looking statements with respect to Creso and its respective operations, strategy, investments, financial performance and condition. These statements generally can be identified by use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “estimate”,
“anticipate”, “intends”, “believe” or “continue” or the negative thereof or similar variations. The actual results and performance of Creso could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such statements are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include, among other things, general economic and market factors,
competition and government regulation.

The cautionary statements qualify all forward-looking statements attributable to Creso and persons acting on its behalf. Unless otherwise stated, all forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement and Creso has no obligation to up-date such statements, except to the extent
required by applicable laws.

i Berner Zeitung: “110’000 patients will soon get cannabis legally”, 18.12.2020
ii Prohibition Partners – The European Cannabis Report: 6th Edition iii Info on the amendments to the Narcotics law in Switzerland, website of the Federal Office of Public Health
(FOPH): https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/de/home/medizin-und-forschung/heilmittel/med-anwend-cannabis/gesetzesaenderungcannabisarzneimittel.html. The information is available in German, French and Italian: https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/gesundleben/sucht-und-gesundheit/cannabis/pilotprojekte.html.

DMT receives innovative medicine designation

Small Pharma granted fast-track designation from UK regulator for DMT-assisted therapy for Major Depressive Disorder

DMT-assisted therapy could be approved in the UK sooner than expected!

Yesterday, Small Pharma (DMT) received an Innovation Passport Designation for its DMT-assisted therapy program for depression – a status given to promising medicines to expedite development. The passport gives the company access to the Innovative Licensing and Access Pathway (ILAP) to reduce time to market and facilitate patient access to the treatment.

The designation is essentially the UK’s version of a Breakthrough Therapy Designation, which the FDA granted to Compass Pathways (CMPS) and Usona Institute in 2018 and 2019, respectively, for their psilocybin-assisted therapy programs.

Small Pharma also launched a Phase 2a clinical trial for DMT-assisted therapy on Tuesday and began trading on the OTCQB market on Wednesday under the symbol “DMTTF”.

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Will this European island legalize shrooms?

After Cannabis, Maltese People Want To Legalise Mushrooms Next

Malta may legalize cannabis, but residents don’t want the reforms to stop there.

In a recent survey, 447 people in Malta were asked if they think the country should legalize any other substances beyond cannabis. Magic mushrooms was the most popular response with 45% in favour of its legalization.

LSD was the next most common response at 27%, but 56% did not see a need for any other drugs to be legalized.

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Managing pain across the globe

BLACKHAWK GROWTH’S MINDBIO THERAPEUTICS BRINGS DIGITAL MENTAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGY TO PSYCHEDELICS CLINICAL TRIALS

Could microdosing + this new technology reduce pain in cancer patients?

MindBio Therapeutics is developing a technology platform to integrate with psychedelic therapy to prevent the mental health of cancer patients from deteriorating.

By utilizing wearable devices, the platform is designed to help with pain management to prevent depression, existential distress and anxiety.

MindBio Therapeutics will use the mindfulness app in an upcoming  Phase 2 microdosing trial, which is funded by the New Zealand government, to see if it provides additional benefits to late-stage cancer patients compared to microdosing alone.

The company aims to commercialize the application globally and believes the tech has potential to receive government funding in Europe.

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Awakn Life Sciences Announces Closing Of Acquisition Of Leading Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Clinic In Norway

Awakn Life Sciences Announces Closing Of Acquisition Of Leading Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Clinic In Norway

Transaction concludes with the launch of “Awakn Clinics Oslo AS” as part of Awakn Life Sciences Nordic Expansion 

TORONTO, October 05, 2021 – Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (“Awakn” or the “Company”), (NEO: AWKN) (OTCQB: AWKNF) (FSE: 954), a biotechnology company developing and delivering psychedelic therapeutics (medicines and therapies) to treat addiction, is pleased to announce the closing of its acquisition of Axonklinikken AS (“Axon”), a leading ketamine-assisted psychotherapy clinic in Norway, as previously announced on September 16, 2021. Upon the completion of the transaction, Axon will be renamed ‘Awakn Clinics Oslo AS,’ and Dr. Lowan Stewart will be appointed as Regional Director for the Nordics and Managing Director Awakn Clinics Oslo AS.

Awakn Clinics Oslo AS Clinic will serve as the Nordic hub from which Awakn plans to expand its clinical network across the region. The acquisition is part of Awakn’s larger strategy to open several addiction and mental health clinics across Europe, including two clinics in the U.K., Bristol and London, that Awakn anticipates being operational this year. Awakn Clinics Oslo AS, led by Dr. Stewart, will be focused on delivering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for patients and eventually will incorporate ketamine in the Reduction of Alcoholic Relapse’ (KARE) psychotherapy intervention, validated in a phase II ab clinical trial led by the University of Exeter and licensed by Awakn on March 2, 2021.

“The close of our acquisition in Norway is a key strategic milestone in making psychedelic therapeutics to treat addiction a mainstream treatment – helping individuals and their families to move past their addictions and live a fuller life,” said Anthony Tennyson, Awakn’s CEO. “This acquisition will enable Awakn to demonstrate the depth of our three-pronged revenue generation strategy: clinics in the U.K. and Europe, licensing partnership beyond the U.K. and Europe, and therapeutics commercialization. We look forward to opening more clinics across the Nordic region and globally as we aim to become the leading authority in the development and delivery of psychedelic therapeutics.”

Pursuant to the terms of the transaction, Awakn has issued to the shareholders of Axon an aggregate of 200,000 common shares of Awakn at a deemed price of CAD$2.50. The initial 200,000 common shares issued are subject to a lock-up resulting in 10% having been released immediately on closing of the acquisition and 15% to be released every three months thereafter. Awakn has also agreed to pay to the shareholders of Axon the following additional consideration (the “Additional Consideration”) of up CAD$1.35m based on Axon meeting certain milestones:

  • Opening a second clinic in Norway.
  • Opening a first clinic in a second Nordic country.
  • Opening a first clinic in a third Nordic country.
  • Achieving agreed revenue and EBIDTA targets.

Awakn shall have the option to pay any amount of the Additional Consideration in cash or common shares at its option. The value to calculate the number of the common shares to be issued shall be the greater of (i) a 10-day volume weighted average price, (ii) the minimum price allowable by the NEO Exchange, and (iii) CAD$2.50.

About Awakn Life Sciences Corp.

Awakn Life Sciences is a biotechnology company with clinical operations, developing and delivering psychedelic therapeutics (medicines and therapies) to better treat addiction. Awakn’s team consists of world leading chemists, scientists, psychiatrists, and psychologists who are developing and advancing the next generation of psychedelic drugs, therapies, and enabling technologies to treat addiction. Awakn will deliver this evidence backed psychedelic therapies in clinics in the U.K. and Europe and through licensing partnerships globally.

www.awaknlifesciences.com  |  Twitter  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events or the Company’s future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “continues”, “forecasts”, “projects”, “predicts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “targets” or “believes”, or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, including statements relating to , the intended business of the Company, the expansion of the Company’s business, and generation of revenue. All forward-looking statements, including those herein are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the statements. There are certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information. These include: the business plans and strategies of the Company, the ability of the Company to comply with all applicable governmental regulations in a highly regulated business; the inherent risks in investing in target companies or projects which have limited or no operating history and are engaged in activities currently considered illegal in some jurisdictions; changes in laws; limited operating history; reliance on management; requirements for additional financing; competition; inconsistent public opinion and perception regarding the medical-use of psychedelic drugs; and regulatory or political change. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date or dates specified in such statements.

Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For more information on the Company, investors are encouraged to review the Company’s public filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company’s and Awakn’s securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Investor Enquiries:

KCSA Strategic Communications
Valter Pinto / Tim Regan
Phone: +1 (212) 896-1254
Awakn@KCSA.com

Media Enquiries:

America and Canada: KCSA Strategic Communications
Anne Donohoe
Adonohoe@KCSA.com

Rest of World: ROAD Communications
Paul Jarman / Anna Ramsey
Awakn@roadcommunications.co.uk

Perpetuating the worst research blackout in scientific history

Warning UK faces ‘worst research blackout in history’ as Home Office falters on drug law

Back in May, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson approved the rescheduling of psilocybin to make it easier to research its therapeutic effects.

Months have passed, yet the Home Office has failed to act, “perpetuating what can be considered the worst research blackout in scientific history,” according to the Conservative Drug Policy Reform Group (CDPRG).

Crispin Blunt MP, chairman of the CDPRG, is urging the Home Office to take action fast to tackle the mental health crisis. “In the 110 days that have passed since the PM’s sign off nearly 2,000 people have taken their own lives; the majority probably preventable when this research is translated into treatment,” he said.

A Home Office spokesperson said that there are currently no plans to reschedule psilocybin due to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, but they will consider any recommendations from The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD), which is reviewing the barriers to researching controlled drugs.

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