Cannabis use in people with Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis: A web-based investigation

Caring for people with multiple sclerosis who use cannabis for symptom control

“…This causes an individual to be regarded as a rejected stereotype or undesired within the normal functioning of society (Goffman, 1963). A significant consequence for community nursing here is that people sometimes feel they cannot discuss or disclose cannabis use because of anticipated negative reactions and consequences on the relationship, although, cannabis has clear benefits for some (Zajicek et al, 2003;Trout & DiDonato 2015;Kindred et al 2017). This was also found to be the case in research carried out by the UK All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG)but not retrieved in the search for this review.…”

“…However, from a scoping search, conducted by the first author, it appeared that most research undertaken within the UK is quantitative in nature, thus relating to the application of certain methodologies, methods and processes in the conduct of the research (Zajicek et al, 2005;Sexton et al, 2016;Kindred et al, 2017). Undoubtedly, this is useful for providing numeric and evaluative data relating to the effectiveness of cannabinoids; although it does not pay great value to the 'patient voice' (Austin & Sutton, 2014).…”

“…Although this study did not gain statistically significant results, subjective improvements were reported amongst 61% (n=121) of the cannabis extract group, 60% (n=108) in the group receiving THC and 46% (n=91) in the placebo group. Reasons for this improvement are unclear and it is interesting that almost half of those in the placebo group perceived a benefit, perhaps illustrating the advantages of participating in a research study (the placebo effect) (Rajagopal, 2006 In summary, only one study demonstrated statistically significant findings about the influence of cannabis (Kindred et al, 2017), in relation to its effects on memory, mood and fatigue.…”

Multiple Sclerosis, Cannabis Use, and Clinical Disability: A Preliminary [18F]-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Study

“…One of the major hurdles to medical cannabis acceptance or rejection is that benefits and consequences of long-term cannabis use in clinical populations has not been established. Recent estimates show 20–66% of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) are currently using cannabis, 1 , 2 even though there is little empirical evidence showing its efficacy. Several short-term interventional studies have generally shown some beneficial effects on spasticity and pain, 3 , 4 and have led to loose recommendations for cannabis use.…”

Cannabidiol to Improve Mobility in People with Multiple Sclerosis

“…Currently, many PwMS utilize cannabis to manage a variety of symptoms. Kindred et al ( 9 ) showed in a web-based survey, which was hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society that 66% of PwMS currently use cannabis for symptom treatment. Furthermore, a study from Canada found that approximately 50% of PwMS would consider the usage of cannabis if the legal status is clear and scientific evidence is available ( 10 ).…”