Brain Stimulation Shows Promise in Reducing Cannabis Dependence in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Recent research conducted by NYU Langone Health suggests that noninvasive brain stimulation could be an effective tool to help individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) reduce their cannabis consumption. Women with MS who often use cannabis to manage symptoms such as pain, muscle spasms, and sleep issues, may develop problematic patterns of use, with up to 20% potentially experiencing cannabis use disorder — a condition characterized by compulsive, hard-to-control consumption.

In a pioneering pilot study, researchers explored the impact of at-home transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with guided mindfulness meditation on cannabis use in 47 women diagnosed with MS. Over four weeks, participants underwent daily tDCS sessions, which involve passing a small electrical current through electrodes placed on the scalp targeting the prefrontal cortex — a brain area integral to decision-making and emotional regulation. This targeted stimulation aims to promote neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to form new neural connections. The study found that, after treatment, participants' average cannabis use decreased significantly—from around five days per week to just two.

The sessions were administered remotely via telehealth, making the treatment accessible and safe. The results showed reductions in withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, irritability, and decreased appetite. According to study lead Dr. Giuseppina Pilloni, this approach offers a promising, portable, and safe alternative for managing cannabis use disorder, especially given the lack of approved long-term treatments for heavy cannabis use.

Previous research has highlighted the potential of tDCS in treating other neurological and psychiatric conditions such as depression. This study marks the first clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness in patients dealing with both MS and cannabis use disorder. Participants received 20 sessions of stimulation, each lasting 20 minutes, paired with online mindfulness exercises and conducted via telehealth, ensuring minimal in-person contact.

The findings indicate that this method could serve as a scalable intervention for cannabis dependence, a condition often overlooked and undertreated, which can impair cognitive and emotional health and decrease overall quality of life. Lead author Leigh Charvet emphasized that the promising results have inspired the research team to launch larger studies, including patients without MS, to explore broader applications of at-home tDCS in substance use treatment.

This innovative approach may fill a significant gap in addiction care, providing an accessible strategy to support recovery and improve daily functioning for those struggling with cannabis dependence.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-brain-cannabis-addiction-people-multiple.html