Medicinal Cannabinoids and Multiple Sclerosis

A comprehensive review of studies of medicinal cannabinoid use in Multiple Sclerosis was commissioned by the Australian Government’s Department of Health. We have used the results of this rigorous work as the source of our summary below.

A team from the University of New South Wales, University of Sydney and University of Queensland under the coordination of the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) reviewed the available evidence for the use of medicinal cannabis in 5 clinic settings. Their findings for chronic pain, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy are summarised below with particular emphasis on data related to CBD products. The full analysis is available on the Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) website which is the Australian Medicines Regulatory body equivalent of Medsafe.

MS Efficacy Summary

A literature search for high quality systematic reviews was conducted on the use of cannabinoids to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, with a cut-off date of November 30, 2016. Overall, there is low to moderate quality evidence which suggests pharmaceutical-grade THC (dronabinol or THC extract) is effective for treating symptoms of pain.

THC:CBD combinations may be effective for treating symptoms of pain and spasticity in MS, in certain patient populations. Findings were mixed as to whether cannabinoids assisted in improving bladder function, sleep, patient quality of life, ataxia/tremor and disability/disease progression.

CBD Specific Data

As of yet, there is little specific data examining the efficacy of Cannabidiol (CBD) alone in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. The Australian review highlights two small studies noted below. Clicking on them will retrieve the full text PDF.