Cannabis Against Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, and fatigue. While there is no cure for MS, medical cannabis has been used as a treatment option to manage symptoms.

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating a range of bodily functions, including pain, inflammation, and muscle control.

Research has shown that cannabinoids can have a positive effect on MS symptoms. For example, a study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that oral cannabis extract (containing THC and CBD) reduced muscle stiffness and spasticity in people with MS. Another study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that smoked cannabis reduced neuropathic pain in MS patients.

In addition, medical cannabis has been found to improve sleep quality, reduce depression and anxiety, and increase the overall quality of life in MS patients. However, it's important to note that medical cannabis can also have side effects, including dizziness, dry mouth, and impaired cognitive function.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis?

A national group of scientific institutions has determined that cannabis can alleviate stiffness and muscle spasms commonly associated with MS, according to self-reported symptoms. Some studies suggest that cannabis and its cannabinoids can also improve sleep problems in individuals with MS, fibromyalgia, and other medical conditions. However, there is limited evidence that cannabinoids can improve muscle tightness or spasticity as measured by a doctor, or alleviate depressive symptoms among individuals with MS or long-term pain.

A study in 2022 titled ‘The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms’ was done to evaluate the effects of different cannabis administration methods on multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with varying symptoms. The results suggest that cannabinoids, particularly those delivered via an oromucosal spray or orally, can improve the treatment of pain and spasticity - the most common symptoms in MS patients. Adverse effects were generally mild to moderate, but caution should be exercised in MS patients.

Does cannabis for multiple sclerosis have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used. 

It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions.

Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Key takeaways

• Medical cannabis has been used as a treatment option to manage symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system causing muscle spasms, pain, and fatigue.

• Cannabinoids found in cannabis can positively affect MS symptoms, reducing muscle stiffness and spasticity, alleviating neuropathic pain, improving sleep quality, reducing depression and anxiety, and increasing the overall quality of life in MS patients.

• However, medical cannabis can also have side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, and impaired cognitive function.

• Studies suggest that cannabinoids delivered through an oromucosal spray or orally can effectively treat pain and spasticity in MS patients, but caution should be exercised in MS patients due to potentially adverse effects. 

Please note: As with any medical treatment, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using medical cannabis for MS. They can provide guidance on dosing, potential risks and benefits, and help monitor for any potential side effects.