Drug-resistant MS spasticity treatment with Sativex(®) add-on and driving ability

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease often causing spasticity.
• Drug-resistant spasticity in MS significantly impacts patient quality of life.
• Assessing the impact of new treatments on functional abilities like driving is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of Sativex(®) (THC/CBD oromucosal spray) on the driving performance of MS patients.
• To determine if Sativex(®) treatment influences fitness to drive.
• To assess the efficacy of Sativex(®) in managing treatment-resistant MS spasticity.

Main Methods:

• Observational study involving 33 MS patients with treatment-resistant spasticity.
• Patients received Sativex(®) oromucosal spray for 4-6 weeks.
• Driving ability was assessed using a computerized test battery at baseline and after treatment, compared to German normative data.

Main Results:

• Driving test results remained comparable between baseline and follow-up.
• A minimal shift in driving fitness classification was observed (2 patients).
• Significant improvement in self-reported MS spasticity severity was noted; Sativex(®) was well-tolerated.

Conclusions:

• Sativex(®) treatment for MS spasticity does not adversely affect driving ability.
• Sativex(®) demonstrates potential for improving moderate to severe treatment-resistant MS spasticity.
• The findings support the continued use of Sativex(®) in MS patients concerned about driving.