Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Phytocannabinoids, particularly those derived from Cannabis sativa such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been investigated for their potential to alleviate symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The use of cannabis-based medicines in MS is justified primarily by scientific evidence rather than tradition, as traditional herbal medicine systems did not specifically use cannabis for MS prior to its identification as a disease.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggest that phytocannabinoids, especially in the form of standardized extracts (e.g., nabiximols, also known as Sativex), can offer modest but clinically meaningful relief from certain MS symptoms, particularly spasticity and pain. The 2014 guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology concluded that oral cannabis extracts are "probably effective" for reducing patient-reported spasticity and pain in MS, though evidence for an effect on objective measures of spasticity is less robust. Adverse effects, such as dizziness and cognitive changes, are not uncommon and limit widespread use.

The mechanism of action is believed to involve modulation of the endocannabinoid system, which is implicated in neural signaling and inflammation. However, phytocannabinoids do not treat the underlying disease process or progression of MS; they are used as symptomatic adjuncts when standard therapies are insufficient. Thus, while there is scientific validation for certain symptom relief, the overall evidence is moderate, and cannabinoids are not considered first-line therapies for MS.

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