Medicinal cannabis and multiple sclerosis: therapeutic pathways for symptom relief and improved quality of life
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36557/2674-8169.2026v8n2p708-722Keywords:
Multiple sclerosis, Medicinal cannabis, Quality of lifeAbstract
Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (EM) is a chronic, autoimmune neurological disease that causes demyelination and debilitating symptoms, significantly impacting quality of life. Given the limitations of conventional treatments, medicinal cannabis has emerged as a promising alternative due to the action of THC and CBD in relieving pain and spasticity. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence on the use of medicinal cannabis as a therapeutic strategy in the management of EM symptoms. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review with a quantitative approach, conducted in the PubMed database, covering the period from 2016 to 2026. Full articles in English on medicinal cannabis and multiple sclerosis were included, while incomplete, duplicate, and grey literature studies were excluded. The search identified 154 studies, which underwent screening by title, abstract, and full-text reading, resulting in 14 articles selected for the final analysis. Results and discussion: The analyzed evidence indicates that medicinal cannabis, especially formulations with THC and CBD, contributes to the reduction of spasticity, chronic pain, and improved quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis. Despite methodological variations, the results converge on consistent clinical benefits, particularly in patients refractory to conventional therapies. Nevertheless, the need for more standardized studies to strengthen clinical recommendations is highlighted. Conclusion: This review shows that medicinal cannabis may represent a relevant therapeutic alternative in the care of people with multiple sclerosis, especially in relieving symptoms that compromise quality of life. The findings point to benefits in physical comfort and well-being, aligned with a person-centered care approach.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Juliana Oliveira Lopes Barbosa, Joyce Karollayne Da Silva, João Vitor da Silva, Juciany Martins Medeiros Salvador, Cristiane Mara Silva de Vasconcelos, Anderson Diêgo Araujo de Lira, Aline Maria Rodrigues dos Santos, Aracelly Rodrigues dos Santos, Mayra Aparecida Mendes Ribeiro, Andreza Correia Dourado da Silva
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