Palatability and oral cavity tolerability of THGCBD oromucosal spray and possible improvement measures in multiple sclerosis patients with resistant spasticity: a pilot study

摘要

Aim: Complaints about DELTA~9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabidiol (CBD) oromucosal spray (Sativex?; GW Pharma Ltd, Salisbury, UK) in the management of multiple sclerosis spasticity include unpleasant taste and oral mucosal anomalies. This pilot study assessed the use of sugar-free chewing gum and/or a refrigerated bottle of THCCBD oromucosal spray to mitigate these effects. Materials & methods: Patients with multiple sclerosis spasticity (n = 52) at six sites in Italy who were receiving THOCBD oromucosal spray and had associated oral mucosal effects were randomized into Group A (chewing gum; n = 15); Group B (cold bottle; n = 20); and Group C (cold bottle + chewing gum; n = 17). Results: Taste perception in patients receiving chewing gum ± cold bottle intervention (Groups A and C combined) was significantly (p = 0.0001) improved from baseline to week 4 while maintaining spasticity control. Conclusion: Patient comfort, satisfaction and treatment adherence may benefit from these interventions.First draft submitted: 22 November 2017; Accepted for publication: 19 January 2018; Published online: 23 April 2018