Dear Readers,

we are pleased to present the next issue of „MS Report,” in which we recommend two papers authored by Katarzyna Ziętal, MSc, from the Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology at the Medical University of Warsaw. We know from experience that the subjects she addresses are of great interest to patients and physicians alike.

In her first paper, the author discusses the use of cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis. She begins by presenting general information about cannabis and its use in medicine, including its historical context. She then presents what we know about the composition of cannabis, and the mechanisms of action behind the identified and best-described substances found in it. The author refers primarily to the treatment of spasticity, based on the most recent clinical studies. It is worth emphasizing that there is a need for reliable scientific research into the therapeutic potential of such treatment, also with respect to other multiple sclerosis symptoms.

The second paper concerns diet in multiple sclerosis. The author presents the role of individual dietary components (fatty acids, selected vitamins, antioxidants and minerals) in the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis. She also describes the use of the Mediterranean and ketogenic diets in that group of patients, pointing out that – in light of the latest research – a properly balanced diet may have a neuroprotective effect and, to some extent, modulate the course of the disease. The information contained in the article may offer valuable guidance to both patients and physicians, as it applies to the selection of a diet based on the stage of disease as well as the patient’s gender, age and comorbidities. Enjoy your reading!

prof. dr hab. n. med. Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel

dr n. med. Agnieszka Piechal