1272 - The Characterization of Cannabinoid Use in Spinal Cord Injury

Objectives: This study identifies and characterizes Cannabidiol (CBD) usage and associated outcomes among patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI patients often experience pain and spasticity plus disruptive urinary symptoms. Previous clinical trials demonstrated relief of pain, spasticity, and sleep for some patients using CBD; in vitro and animal studies suggest changes in bladder physiology by cannabinoid receptor modulation with CBD.

Design: A 137-question survey utilizing Qualtrics XM was developed to capture demographics, the Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score Short Form (NGBSS-SF), cannabis and CBD usage patterns, CBD side effects, and self-reported changes in symptoms and medication usage. The survey was administered electronically to individuals with SCI via an existing research group and online SCI support groups. NGBSS mean values were compared between CBD users and non-users.

Results: Of 97 respondents, 52% were male with a mean age of 38 (SD= 13). 42% and 40% of patients had cervical and thoracic SCI, respectively, with 37% and 59% complete and incomplete injuries, respectively. 49% reported using marijuana in the past year. Overall, 37% (n=36) used CBD for urinary or other symptoms from SCI, of whom 63% (n=23) reported current use. The mean NGBSS-SF was 10.07 and was not associated with any CBD use. 7% (n=6) reported use for urinary symptoms including urge, spasm, incontinence, and emptying with moderate improvement in 66%. The most common symptoms showing rates of moderate improvement or better with CBD use included: pain (n=20, 61%), sleep (n=15, 77%), and spasticity (n=12, 60%).

Conclusions: In this sample, prevalence of CBD and cannabis usage was moderate among individuals with SCI. There was self-reported efficacy in modulating non-urinary and urinary SCI-related symptoms. Further research is warranted to better understand the impact on the lower urinary tract and non-urologic symptoms given prevalence of use and potential for demonstrable medical benefit.