Dronabinol Ineffective to Reduce Disability in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has a variety of physiologic effects. Some researchers suggest that cannabis and the endocannabinoid system may have a potential role in neuroprotection. To test this hypothesis in patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), investigators conducted a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, including 498 patients with primary-progressive (PP) or secondary-progressive (SP) MS, randomized 2:1 to dronabinol or placebo. Dose titration was performed over 4 weeks, and final dose was based on weight (up to 28 mg daily).

Demographics were evenly distributed among treatment allocations. The median age was 52, female:male ratio was 3:2, 39% had PPMS and 61% SPMS, and median expanded dis…