Psychoactive substances are commonly used by people with multiple sclerosis (MS )and may ease some symptoms while worsening others, a study suggests.
MS is a long-term condition affecting the brain and spinal cord that can cause fatigue, pain, mobility issues and other symptoms.
Psychoactive substances are drugs or products that affect the brain and nervous system, influencing mood, alertness, pain or perception.
Researchers asked people with MS to report their symptom severity and substance use in real time four times a day for 14 days.
The study used an approach known as ecological momentary assessment, which means collecting information from people during daily life rather than relying only on memory later.
Participants reported levels of fatigue, pain, stress and depressive symptoms, as well as whether they had used alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, cannabis or opioids before recording their symptoms.
The research team then looked for patterns between substance use and changes in symptoms.
Alcohol use was linked to lower stress, but also higher fatigue.
Caffeine use was linked to lower fatigue, but higher stress.
Cannabis use was associated with benefits for pain management, but was also linked to higher fatigue.
No positive effects were seen for nicotine, which was linked only to increased fatigue.
Anna Kratz, professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at University of Michigan Health and head of the Kratz Lab, said: “Just as many people look to a cup of coffee in the afternoon for a pick me up, people with multiple sclerosis may seek caffeine to help with fatigue or alcohol to manage pain.
“Insights from studies like this could prompt a person with multiple sclerosis to reflect on what they are putting into their bodies and how it is impacting their symptoms.”
Kratz said patients should talk with their provider about psychoactive substances they use habitually, recreationally or for symptom management.
She also urged providers to listen carefully to patients’ experiences.
Kratz said: “Having a better understanding of how these substances impact patients with multiple sclerosis will be beneficial for providers.
“Patients using psychoactive substances is not going to go away. Being able to understand the role these substances play and the pros and cons of each will allow providers to better advise their patients when it comes to use of these products.”
Cygnet Hospital Taunton to launch specialist Neurocognitive Treatment & Care Pathway
