Some scientists believe that cannabis may provide long-term relief
for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, despite previous findings
that were inconclusive.
In MS patients, the body's immune system attacks the protective
layer of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
A past 15-week trial indicated that cannabis-based treatments reduced
symptoms of MS. More than 650 MS sufferers took part in the study.
Participants were given a placebo or a synthetic version of THC,
tetrahydrocannabinol, for 15 weeks. Patients reported improvements
in muscle stiffness, rigidity and mobility. However, physiotherapists
were unable to confirm the findings.
Of the original study subjects, 80 percent chose to continue the
treatment for up to a year. Investigators claim that the results
are promising and hope to continue research.
Cannabis is already used to alleviate weight loss in AIDS patients
and nausea in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Yahoo
News, September 10, 2004
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