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Symptomatic treatment of multiple sclerosis using cannabinoids: recent advances
1University of Otago, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand. paul.smith@stonebow.otago.ac.nz
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
|September 18, 2007
Summary
Medicinal cannabinoids show promise for treating multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms like pain and spasticity. While generally well-tolerated, potential long-term psychiatric and developmental side effects require further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition often associated with debilitating pain and spasticity.
- There is a growing interest in exploring non-traditional therapeutic avenues for managing MS symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on the efficacy of medicinal cannabinoids for symptom management in multiple sclerosis.
- To assess the safety and tolerability profile of cannabinoids in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of clinical trials investigating various cannabinoids (e.g., delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, dronabinol, nabilone) for MS.
- Analysis of reported outcomes related to pain, spasticity, and adverse events.
Main Results:
- A growing consensus suggests cannabinoids are beneficial for a subset of individuals with MS.
- Reported side effects are generally mild compared to other pain and spasticity medications.
- Specific cannabinoids and extracts, including Sativex, have been evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Medicinal cannabinoids represent a potential therapeutic option for managing chronic pain and spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
- Long-term safety, particularly regarding psychiatric effects and fetal development, warrants continued monitoring and research.
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