Readers of a review article by Giacoppo and others in Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 2017, pages 22-31, will probably agree with this statement. Sativex is a branded oromucosal spray containing tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol in a 1:1 ratio. It has been available for years in Canada and has been approved in several European countries since 2013. Combining the two compounds reduces unwanted cognitive effects.
This review was a literature search extending back ten years. Spasticity affects 80% of MS patients, responds poorly to currently available medications and worsens disability and quality of life. 83% of MS-Sativex treated patients had reduction of spasticity. 65% were considered responders in the first month. There was no evidence that other MS symptoms worsened. 60% continued treatment long term. Those who stopped cited lack of efficacy or side effects. 83% thought they benefited.
10%, and usually only for in the first month, had side effects, such as dizziness, fatigue, and dry mouth. Less than 1% had psychiatric side effects, including paranoia, hallucinations, panic, suicidal ideation and cognitive decline. These generally cleared with lowering the dose or stopping treatment. There was no evidence of tolerance, abuse, diversion or addiction.
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