Abstract Details

Title Multiple Sclerosis and Use of Medical Cannabis: A Retrospective Review Evaluating Symptom Outcomes

Topic Multiple Sclerosis

Presentation(s) P5 - Poster Session 5 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 15-106

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of medical cannabis in improving symptomatology in patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). We also sought to collect data on other pertinent outcomes related to the use of cannabis to enhance understanding of the potential benefits this complementary therapy offers.

Background

Although medical cannabis is approved in 30 states and the District of Columbia for use in multiple sclerosis there remains a dearth of research clinically evaluating its effectiveness and patient experience.

Design/Methods

A retrospective chart review of 77 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis participating in treatment with medical cannabis for symptom management was conducted (F=53, M=24, Mean Age=49±12). A variety of objective and subjective variables that pertain to alleviation of MS symptoms were collected from each of the first four appointments following initiation of medical cannabis. A cross-sectional review of self-rating scales completed by patients was also conducted to determine gross changes in mental health.

Results

Subjective improvement endorsed by patients was extensive, with alleviation of symptomatology seen most in pain (71%), spasticity (43%), and sleep (42%). In addition, 34% of patients were able to decrease and discontinue other medications including opioids, stimulants, and benzodiazepines (McNemar's test for symmetry; p<0.001), indicative of symptom improvement. Medical cannabis was also well-tolerated within the multiple sclerosis patient population. The most common adverse reaction observed was somnolence (6%). No significant weight change was noted over 335 day average duration of therapy. A low rate of discontinuation (14%) was observed, most frequently due to cost (36%) and lack of efficacy (36%).

Conclusions

Patients with multiple sclerosis who initiated medical cannabis treatment experienced improved symptomology with good tolerability and were able to decrease or altogether discontinue opioids, stimulants and benzodiazepines. Further controlled studies are needed to confirm and clarify these results.

Authors/Disclosures
Katelyn McCormack, NP (Dent Neurologic Institute) PRESENTER	No disclosure on file
	No disclosure on file
Michelle Rainka, PharmD (Dent Neurologic Institute)	Dr. Rainka has stock in Abbvie. Dr. Rainka has stock in acadia. Dr. Rainka has stock in alon. Dr. Rainka has stock in biogen. Dr. Rainka has stock in bristol myers squib. Dr. Rainka has stock in eisai. Dr. Rainka has stock in Lilly. Dr. Rainka has stock in novartis. Dr. Rainka has stock in pfizer. Dr. Rainka has stock in roche. Dr. Rainka has stock in Sage. Dr. Rainka has stock in alkermes.
Traci Aladeen, PharmD (Dent Neurologic Institute)	Dr. Aladeen has nothing to disclose.
Erica S. Westphal (Dent Neurologic Institute)	The institution of Ms. Westphal has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for McKesson Coorporation. The institution of Ms. Westphal has received research support from Dent Neurologic Institute.
Amir Mazhari, MD (Skagit Neurology)	No disclosure on file
Laszlo Mechtler, MD, FEAN, FASN, FAHS, FAAN (Dent Neurologic Institute)	Dr. Mechtler has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Impel Pharma. Dr. Mechtler has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Abbvie. Dr. Mechtler has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving on a Speakers Bureau for Abbvie. Dr. Mechtler has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving as an officer or member of the Board of Directors for Genomate Health. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from The Harry Dent Family Foundation, Inc. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Alpheus medical. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Shiratronics. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Abbvie Inc. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Amgen. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Eli Lilly Company. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from H. Lundbeck HS. The institution of Dr. Mechtler has received research support from Pfizer. Dr. Mechtler has received personal compensation in the range of $100,000-$499,999 for serving as a Ownership interest with Neurology Practce Consortium GPO. Dr. Mechtler has a non-compensated relationship as a Board member with International Headache Society that is relevant to AAN interests or activities.

��ɫ��

��ɫ��