Effect of Sativex on spasticity-associated symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) spasticity may experience a range of symptoms, such as bladder dysfunction, pain, impaired sleep quality and mobility restrictions that worsen as spasticity severity increases. In this review, the effects of Sativex^® oromucosal spray on symptoms and functional impairment associated with MS-related spasticity were examined. Across Sativex studies, there was a clear trend for improvement in spasticity-associated symptoms that was more pronounced and sustained over time in Sativex responders. Meaningful symptomatic improvement was achieved within the recommended dosage limit of ≤12 sprays per day. In appropriate patients, Sativex has the potential to minimize the consequences of spasticity-related symptoms on quality of life and reduce the economic burden on healthcare systems.

Keywords:

• multiple sclerosis
• review
• Sativex
• spasticity
• symptom management

Financial & competing interests disclosure

SG Meuth has received honoraria for lecturing and travel expenses for attending meetings and has received financial research support from Bayer, Bayer Schering, Biogen Idec, Genzyme, Merck Serono, MSD, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi-Aventis and Teva. C Vila is a full-time employee of Laboratorios Almirall S.A. KL Dechant is a full-time employee of Content Ed Net. Writing assistance was provided by Content Ed Net (Madrid, Spain), with funding from Almirall SA (Barcelona, Spain). The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Key issues

• Spasticity is a common and disabling symptom of MS frequently associated with bladder dysfunction, pain and sleep disturbances. Spasticity also contributes to mobility restrictions.

• There are direct correlations between the presence of spasticity (and its severity) and the worsening of associated symptoms/functional impairment and consumption of healthcare resources.

• The efficacy of Sativex oromucosal spray for treatment-resistant spasticity had been demonstrated in randomized controlled trials and observational studies in clinical practice.

• This literature review examined the effects of Sativex on symptoms and functional impairment associated with MS spasticity.

• There was a trend toward an improvement in symptoms (bladder control, sleep quality, pain) and function (timed 10 m walk test) that was more pronounced and sustained over time (≥1 year) in Sativex responders.

• Benefits with Sativex were achieved within the recommended dosage range of ≤12 sprays/day.

• In responders, Sativex has the potential to minimize the consequences of MS spasticity and associated symptoms on patients’ quality of life and reduce the economic burden on healthcare systems.

Notes