(Abstract) Cannabis use in MS patients

 
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PostPosted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 3:18 pm    Post subject: (Abstract) Cannabis use in MS patients Reply with quote

From PubMed, 11/8/06:

Quote:
Mult Scler. 2006 Oct;12(5):646-51.

Cannabis use in patients with multiple sclerosis

Chong MS, Wolff K, Wise K, Tanton C, Winstock A, Silber E.
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, [being a] tobacco smoker and [having] 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 (adjusted OR 2.47; 1.10-5.56) or only able to walk with an aid (adjusted OR 1.56; 0.90-3.60). 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.

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