Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis: Prescriber’s Perspective
ABSTRACT
A 2018 systematic review examined randomized controlled trials pertaining to the symptoms with the strongest evidence base, including 2 that are relevant to MS: pain and spasticity.4 The authors found that patients taking cannabinoids were more likely to achieve pain reduction of at least 30%, with a risk ratio of 1.37 (95% CI, 1.14-1.64) and number needed to treat of 11. Most studies investigating the effects of cannabinoids on pain focused on neuropathic pain. In addition, a positive global impression of change in spasticity was observed (risk ratio 1.45; 95% CI, 1.08-1.95; number needed to treat=7). These specific benefits are recognized by the American Academy of Neurology as having strong supporting evidence.5
