Cannabis use in people with multiple sclerosis and spasticity: A cross-sectional analysis

Rice et al. ·Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders Impact 2.2

Unclear GRADE Low 9 citations

Sample—

DurationBaseline data collection

EndpointCannabis use

Blindingn.a.

DesignCross-sectional Survey

Key finding

79% of cannabis users subjectively report that cannabis is helpful for their MS-related spasticity; however, this is a cross-sectional observation without a control group or objective measurement of spasticity reduction.

Summary

Cross-sectional survey among MS patients with spasticity in Oregon: 54% report having ever used cannabis, 36% currently; 79% find cannabis helpful for spasticity, 58% use it at least daily, 79% use multiple forms of administration. 26% combine cannabis with prescribed oral antispastics.

PopulationAdults with multiple sclerosis (MS) and self-reported spasticity, participants of a spasticity intervention study in Oregon

InterventionCannabis use (various routes of administration, frequency and combinations)

Outcome54% reported having ever used cannabis, 36% currently use it; 79% find cannabis helpful for spasticity; 26% combine cannabis with prescribed oral antispastics

Confidence in the evidence

Low

The second of four GRADE levels, the effect estimate is of limited reliability.

Quality profile

Sample size —

Blinding —

Effect size —

Citations / year ★★★★★

Authors

Rice J, Hugos C, Hildebrand A, Cameron M

DOI 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102009↗

Design: Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Growing evidence supports that cannabinoids relieve MS-related spasticity but little is known about cannabis use among people with MS (PwMS) and spasticity. Objective: To characterize cannabis use among PwMS and spasticity. Methods: As part of baseline data collection for a spasticity intervention trial in Oregon, PwMS and self-reported spasticity answered questions about cannabis use. Results: 54% reported ever using cannabis and 36% currently use. 79% use multiple routes of administration, 58% use at least daily. 79% find cannabis helpful for spasticity and 26% use cannabis and prescribed oral antispasticity medications. Conclusions: Many PwMS and spasticity use cannabis and report it helps their spasticity.

The impediment to action advances action. — Marcus Aurelius