Manley West

Manley West (1929–2012) was a renowned pharmacologist and ophthalmologist from Jamaica. He is best known for his pioneering work in the development of Canasol, a medication used in the treatment of glaucoma.

Early Life and Education

West was born in 1929 in Jamaica. He pursued his education in the field of medicine, specializing in ophthalmology and pharmacology. He received his medical degree from the University of London, and later completed his postgraduate studies in ophthalmology at the University of Toronto.

Career

West returned to Jamaica after his studies and began his career as an ophthalmologist. He also served as a lecturer at the University of the West Indies, where he conducted extensive research in pharmacology. His research primarily focused on the medicinal properties of plants native to the Caribbean, particularly the cannabis plant.

Canasol

In the 1970s, West and his colleague, Albert Lockhart, began studying the effects of cannabis on glaucoma. Their research led to the development of Canasol, an eye drop medication that helps reduce intraocular pressure, a major factor in glaucoma. Canasol was the first cannabis-based medicine to receive approval from a national drug authority, the Jamaican Ministry of Health.

Awards and Recognition

In recognition of his contributions to medicine and pharmacology, West received several awards and honors. He was awarded the Order of Jamaica in 1987 for his work in ophthalmology and pharmacology. In 1993, he was also awarded the Gold Musgrave Medal for his contributions to science.

Death

West passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering work in the field of pharmacology and ophthalmology.

See Also

• Albert Lockhart
• Canasol
• Glaucoma
• Pharmacology
• Ophthalmology

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