Cannabis Use And Neurological Disease

Abstract

Medicinal cannabis use has a long history. Despite this fact current federal regulations greatly restrict research into the medicinal uses of cannabis, although this sentiment is changing. PURPOSE: To investigate cannabis use parameters in people with neurological diseases. METHODS: An anonymous online survey was created using modified neurological assessment questionnaires, Guy’s Neurological Disability Scale and Nottingham Health Profile, and posted to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Michael J. Fox Foundation websites. The survey also included measures of past/current cannabis use, fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale), balance confidence (Activities of Balance Confidence), physical activity (International Physical Activities Questionnaire), pain (visual analogue scale), and spasticity. The survey was available online from 15 Feb 2016 to 15 Oct 2016. RESULTS: There were a total of 637 records with 52% (n = 326) men and 48% (n = 311) women (mean: age 57 SD 13; BMI 27 SD 5.7). Forty-three percent (n = 277) reported currently using cannabis, although 57% (n = 158) do not have a state medical marijuana card. Smoking was the most common method of use (79%, n = 213). Among the cannabis users 75% (n = 204) have been using for > 1 year and 48% (n = 131) are using 7 days a week. Most, 85% (n = 231), felt that cannabis at least moderately improved their symptoms. Medicinal purposes (74%, n = 200) were reported as the reason for use and 60% (n = 164) stated a reduction in the use of other medications due to cannabis. Of the non-users 75% (n = 265) have considered using cannabis to help manage their disease symptoms, and 97% (n = 344), said they would use cannabis if scientifically shown to help ease disease burden. There appears to be no difference in physical activity participation between the cannabis users and non-users (t-tests: p > 0.128). CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of neurological patients are currently using cannabis to treat their disease and/or symptoms. Current medical knowledge on the benefits and consequences of both short- and long-term cannabis use are unknown in this population. It is imperative to establish the effects of cannabis so that physicians and patients can make the most informed decisions about whether adding cannabis to the current pharmacological regiment is both effective and safe.