After a review of scientific studies, researchers say extracts from marijuana plants can help treat pain and spasticity symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis. Share on Pinterest A systematic review recently presented at the Consortium of MS Centers in Tennessee has concluded that cannabinoids may have “modest effects in multiple sclerosis for pain or spasticity.” Researchers looked at the safety and effectiveness of cannabis as well as studying its impact on disability and disability progression, pain, spasticity, bladder function, tremor/ataxia, quality of life, and adverse effects. Five reviews concluded that there was sufficient evidence that cannabinoids may be beneficial for symptoms of pain and spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS). The review suggested future research include studies with noncannabinoid comparisons, noting an important gap in the studies. The cannabis plant contains many biologically active chemicals, including about 60 cannabinoids. Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two main chemical components of cannabis. Studies have shown that CBD has a number of beneficial pharmacological effects . It’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiemetic, antipsychotic, and neuroprotective. Over 30 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana, which can be used for specific medical conditions — including MS. Additional states have passed laws that specifically allow the medical use of CBD. A recent peer-reviewed article looked at the effects of CBD on those with MS. Researchers concluded that supplementing with CBD may help people with MS reduce fatigue, pain, and spasticity as well as eventually improve mobility. Furthermore, the article suggests that a higher social acceptance of CBD will lead to increases in the number of people with MS using cannabis to treat their symptoms.

MS patients trying cannabis In a web-based survey, hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 66 percent of people with MS said they currently use cannabis for symptom treatment. The Rocky Mountain MS Center at the University of Colorado recently published the preliminary results from its 25-person study evaluating use of cannabis. Patients were asked to complete questions assessing willingness to use cannabis in MS treatment, previous and current use, impact of cannabis on MS symptoms, MS history, and demographics. The preliminary results showed that slightly more than half of the respondents believe cannabis has some benefit on MS symptoms. About 76 percent of respondents indicated they would consider trying cannabis to manage their MS symptoms. And 28 percent reported cannabis use in the past year. Cannabis products were mostly used for pain, spasticity/muscle tightness, and muscle spasms. The most common side effect listed was slower cognitive processes. The most common objections to using medical marijuana included limited scientific proof, uncertainty of legal status, social stigma, potential addiction problems, and negative psychoactive effects of cannabis.

How marijuana helps MS patients Another study from the University of Rochester MS Center in New York looked at the “real world” experience of medical marijuana in managing symptoms of multiple sclerosis and transverse myelitis. Researchers conducted a cross sectional study, asking subjects to complete a survey reporting their experience with medical marijuana certification, usage, and effects. About 77 percent said medical marijuana was helpful in managing symptoms, mainly spasticity and pain. They reported no side effects. Another 70 percent felt their quality of life improved with medical marijuana. Some patients actually reduced other medications used for symptoms. Most of the participants said they spent $100 to $300 per month on medical marijuana. The Rochester study concluded that medical marijuana appears to have a role in managing the symptoms of MS through direct symptom relief and reduction in other medications. It also suggests that improving affordability may enhance patient benefit. In Italy, researchers recently concluded that a cannabis-based spray, Sativex, is beneficial in reducing pain in patients with multiple sclerosis. During their study involving about two dozen patients, the researchers also found the spray improved pain sensitivity caused by cold temperatures.