Clinical case reviews in multiple sclerosis spasticity: experiences from around Europe

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Spasticity is a primary symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS), affecting approximately two-thirds of patients.
• Moderate to severe spasticity is common, yet often undertreated due to inadequate efficacy or tolerability of current oral agents like baclofen, tizanidine, and gabapentin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on administering nabiximols (tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol oromucosal spray) for managing MS-related spasticity.
• To enhance understanding of European prescribing regulations and identify suitable candidates for nabiximols.
• To raise awareness of alternative treatment strategies for MS spasticity.

Main Methods:

• Review of European clinical experience with MS spasticity cases.
• Analysis of prescribing regulations for MS spasticity treatments.
• Evaluation of patient selection criteria for nabiximols.

Main Results:

• Oral antispasticity medications often fail to provide adequate relief at well-tolerated doses.
• Nabiximols (Sativex®) represent a new therapeutic option for MS spasticity.
• European clinical experience provides insights into optimal use and patient identification.

Conclusions:

• Improved understanding of nabiximols' role in MS spasticity management is crucial.
• Optimizing treatment requires awareness of regulations, patient selection, and alternative approaches.
• Addressing undertreatment of MS spasticity necessitates exploring novel therapeutic options like nabiximols.