ACTRIMS 2024 | Transcranial direct current stimulation to decrease cannabis use in MS

Leigh Charvet, PhD, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, discusses her recent study exploring the potential of home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a treatment for cannabis use disorder (CUD) in individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Approximately 50% of MS patients use cannabis, but there is limited evidence supporting its varied applications and no established standard of care for cannabis use reduction exists. The pilot study will evaluate whether tDCS, combined with mindfulness meditation, results in decreased distress and, in turn, decreased cannabis use. Prof. Charvet highlights the substantial demand observed during the recruitment phase, confirming the magnitude of this prevalent issue among individuals with MS. Preliminary results indicate encouraging results and feedback. The study aims to fill a critical gap in supporting individuals with MS facing cannabis-related challenges, with the hopes of offering an accessible therapeutic approach in the near future. This interview took place during the annual ACTRIMS Forum 2024.

These works are owned by Magdalen Medical Publishing (MMP) and are protected by copyright laws and treaties around the world. All rights are reserved.