Cannabis use in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Department of Neurology,
Kings College Hospital NHS Trust,
London, UK.
INTRODUCTION:
Little is known about the extent and patterns of cannabis use in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
METHODS:
MS patients attending neurology outpatient clinics at two hospitals in London and one in Kent, UK completed a questionnaire.
RESULTS:
Questionnaires were completed by 254/337 (75%) MS patients.
Forty- three per cent had used cannabis at some stage (ever users). Of these, :
68% (75/110) had used cannabis to alleviate symptoms of MS (MS- related cannabis use).
Forty-six (18%) had used cannabis in the last month (current users), of whom
12% (31/254) had used it for symptom relief.
Being married or having a long-term partner, tobacco smokers, and increasing disability were independent risk factors for MS- related cannabis use.
Compared to patients who could walk unaided, cannabis use was more likely in those who were chair-bound or only able to walk with an aid. Pain and spasms were common reasons for cannabis use.
Seventy-one per cent of individuals who had never used cannabis said they would try the drug if it were available on prescription.
CONCLUSION:
A large proportion of MS patients had tried cannabis for symptom control, however current use was small. A subgroup with greater disability appears to derive some symptomatic benefit.