Five of six scientific trials show medical marijuana helps multiple sclerosis patients

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 7 (UPI) — Marijuana may reduce spasticity — involuntary muscle contractions — in multiple sclerosis patients, U.S. researchers said.

The systematic review of six randomized, controlled trials, published in Neurology, found five of the trials reported a reduction in spasticity and an improvement in mobility.

Researchers Shaheen Lakhan and Marie Rowland of the Global Neuroscience Initiative Foundation in Los Angeles said they looked for trials evaluating two marijuana extracts — delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol — THC — and cannabidiol — CBD.

“We found evidence that combined THC and CBD extracts may provide therapeutic benefit for MS spasticity symptoms,” Lakhan said in a statement. “The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in MS is comprehensive and should be given considerable attention.”

The researchers said reported incidence of marijuana side effects — such as intoxication — varied greatly depending on the amount of marijuana needed to effectively limit spasticity. However, the researchers noted side effects were also seen in the placebo groups.

I always find it amusing when marijuana’s euphoric effect is noted as a “side effect”.  Most of the drugs doctors will prescribe for spasticity will cause side effects like “drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and diarrhea” [Dantrolene] or “weakness, hypotension, ataxia, dyscoordination, sedation, depression, and memory impairment [and] risk of addiction” [Benzodiazepines] or “sedation, hypotension, dry mouth, dizziness, renal impairment, and psychosis” [Imidazolines] or “vertigo, urinary frequency, muscle weakness drowsiness, confusion, headache, nausea, seizures, constipation, dyspnea, impaired vision, severe fatigue, urticaria, and edema” [Baclofen].  Also, don’t forget, “because of the potential for [some of these drugs] to cause hepatotoxicity [liver failure], regular monitoring of hepatic function is required.”

And yet, we’re supposed to be concerned about munchies, giggling, and appreciation of jazz as a potential side effect from medical cannabis use.