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An open-label pilot study of cannabis-based extracts for bladder dysfunction in advanced multiple sclerosis.
C M Brady1, R DasGupta, C Dalton
1Dept of Uro-Neurology, Institute of Neurology and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|August 26, 2004
Summary
Cannabis extracts significantly improved urinary symptoms and secondary issues like pain and spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This study indicates cannabis-based medicine is safe and effective for managing MS-related urinary dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Urology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently causes lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
- Cannabis compounds, like delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), interact with cannabinoid receptors, suggesting potential therapeutic roles in LUTS.
- Existing anecdotal evidence supports cannabis as a treatment for LUTS in MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety, tolerability, effective dose range, and efficacy of whole-plant Cannabis sativa extracts in patients with advanced MS and refractory LUTS.
- To evaluate the impact of cannabinoid treatments on urinary function and associated symptoms in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- An open-label trial involving patients with advanced MS and refractory LUTS.
- Treatment involved two phases: eight weeks of combined THC and CBD extract, followed by eight weeks of THC-only extract.
- Outcome measures included urinary frequency/volume charts, incontinence pad weights, cystometry, and visual analogue scales for pain, spasticity, and sleep quality.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in urinary urgency, incontinence episodes (number and volume), frequency, and nocturia were observed (P <0.05).
- Daily total voided, catheterized, and incontinence pad weights also decreased significantly.
- Patient-reported improvements in pain, spasticity, and sleep quality were significant (P <0.05), with pain relief sustained long-term.
Conclusions:
- Whole-plant Cannabis sativa extracts, containing THC and CBD, demonstrate safety and efficacy in treating LUTS and associated symptoms in advanced MS.
- Cannabis-based medicinal extracts represent a viable therapeutic option for managing complex urinary and secondary symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients.
- The study supports further investigation into cannabinoid-based therapies for neurological conditions with significant symptomatic burden.
