Multiple Sclerosis Article

The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms

Source: 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Link: 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148011/

Article Summary:
This study looks at the impact of various cannabis administration routes on MS patients with varying symptoms. It found indications that cannabis will support the efficacy of cannabinoids, namely throughan oromucosal spray and orally, in the treatment of pain and spasticity, which are the most common symptoms in MS patients. In general, adverse effects were modest to moderate, although special attention should be exercised in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Article Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as an autoimmune disease that damages the neurons in the central nervous system. MS is characterized by its most common symptoms of spasticity, muscle spasms, neuropathic pain, tremors, bladder dysfunction, dysarthria, and some intellectual problems, including memory disturbances. Several clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of cannabis on the relief of these symptoms in MS patients. The efficacy of Cannabis sativa (C. Sativa) in the management of MS outcomes such as spasticity, pain, tremors, ataxia, bladder functions, sleep, quality of life, and adverse effects were assessed in this review. Most clinical studies showed the positive effects of cannabinoids with their different routes of administration, such as oromucosal spray and oral form, in reducing most MS symptoms. The oromucosal spray Nabiximols demonstrated an improvement in reducing MS spasticity, pain, and quality of life with a tolerated adverse effect. Oral cannabinoids are significantly effective for treating MS pain and spasticity, while the other symptoms indicate slight improvement and the evidence is quite inconsistent. Oromucosal spray and oral cannabis are mainly used for treating patients with MS and have positive effects on treating the most common symptoms of MS, such as pain and spasticity, whereas the other MS symptoms indicated slight improvement, for which further studies are needed.