A new study suggests that marijuana-based treatment may provide lasting relief for people living with restless legs syndrome (RLS).
RLS causes an overwhelming urge to move the legs and disrupts sleep. The disorder affects an estimated 7 to 12 percent of adults in North America and Europe and is more frequent among those with multiple sclerosis.
For many years, dopamine agonists have been considered the primary therapy for RLS. More recently, however, research has shifted toward gabapentinoids as a preferred option. Since cannabinoids and gabapentinoids influence similar biological pathways involving certain amino acids linked to the condition, researchers wanted to determine whether cannabis compounds could also ease symptoms.
The open-label study enrolled adults with long-term RLS whose symptoms had persisted despite existing therapies. Most of the participants also had multiple sclerosis.
At the beginning of the trial, participants were prescribed an oral spray containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). They were instructed to take the medication in the evening shortly before symptoms typically emerged.
During the first month, doses were adjusted individually to identify the amount that delivered the greatest benefit. Once an effective dose was established, treatment remained unchanged for the rest of the study period.
Researchers monitored progress using established questionnaires and wrist-based sleep tracking devices known as actigraphy monitors. The primary outcome focused on symptom severity, measured with the International RLS rating scale. The team also evaluated sleep quality, daytime drowsiness, overall well-being, and participants’ ability to tolerate the treatment.
According to the findings, the cannabis formulation, containing 2.5 mg of CBD and 2.7 mg of THC, reduced the severity of RLS in patients with multiple sclerosis as well as those with idiopathic forms of the condition.
The study, which involved 18 participants, found noticeable improvements after one month and again after three months of treatment. Among those who remained on therapy, the benefits were still present one year later. Researchers reported that 67% of patients who continued treatment for a year maintained meaningful symptom improvement.
Although cannabis has already demonstrated benefits in easing muscle spasms and related neurological conditions, its potential use for RLS stands out because no U.S. states specifically identify RLS as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana programs.
The study adds to growing interest in alternative therapies that may eventually reduce dependence on dopamine agonists and expand treatment choices for people with restless legs syndrome.
Marijuana companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) are unlikely to be surprised by the findings of this study since the full therapeutic potential of marijuana and its compounds is yet to be fully scientifically documented.
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