Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms and Spasticity Management: New Data

Abstract

Spasticity, perceived by patients as muscle rigidity and spasms, is a common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). It is associated with functional impairment that can exacerbate other MS symptoms and reduce quality of life. Pharmacological treatment options are limited and frequently ineffective. Treatment adherence is a key issue to address in these patients. The efficacy and safety of 9-delta-tetrahydrocannabinol:cannabidiol (THC:CBD) oromucosal spray for treatment of MS spasticity were demonstrated in four Phase III trials. Observational studies and registry data subsequently confirmed the effectiveness and tolerability of THC:CBD oromucosal spray under everyday practice conditions. Among patients who respond to treatment, THC:CBD oromucosal spray has been shown to produce positive improvements in gait parameters and to normalize muscle fibers.

Keywords: :

• multiple sclerosis
• spasticity management
• THC:CBD oromucosal spray

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The author has received personal compensation as a consultant or speaker from Almirall, Bayer, Biogen, Merck, Novartis, Roche and Sanofi. The author has 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.

Writing assistance was provided by Content Ed Net (Madrid, Spain), with funding from Almirall SA (Barcelona, Spain).