Phenol


Phenol is a neurolytic agent, which means that it impairs the conduction of nerves. In multiple sclerosis it has been used in the treatment of severe spasticity or pain where other treatment options have proven ineffective.

How phenol works

Phenol destroys the nerve conduction that is causing spasticity or pain. As the effect is permanent, it is used with people who experience spasticity but who have no feeling and control in their legs and no control of bowel or bladder function or more rarely for those in very intense chronic pain that is not responding to other treatment.

How is phenol given?

Phenol is injected directly into the space within the spinal column, called the intrathecal space.

Find out more

References
Jarrett L, et al.
Managing severe lower limb spasticity in multiple sclerosis: does intrathecal phenol have a role?
Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery and Psychiatry 2002;73(6):705-709.
Full article (link is external)
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