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Drew Lesser

Exploring the Promise of Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis (MS): What the research reveals.

Updated: Dec 20, 2023


Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis (MS): What the research reveals.
Medical Cannabis for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, degenerative disease of the central nervous system that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as muscle stiffness, spasticity, pain, fatigue, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Although there is no known cure for MS, there are a variety of treatments available to manage its symptoms and slow its progression. One such treatment that has gained increasing attention in recent years is medical cannabis.

There is growing evidence to suggest that medical cannabis can be an effective treatment option for MS. One study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that cannabis use was associated with significant improvements in spasticity, pain, and bladder function in MS patients (Zajicek et al., 2003). Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that cannabis extract was more effective than placebo in reducing spasticity in MS patients (Corey-Bloom et al., 2012).

The potential therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis in MS are thought to be due to its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of neurotransmitters and receptors that helps to regulate various physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, and immune function. It has been hypothesized that MS may be caused by an imbalance in the ECS, and that medical cannabis can help to restore this balance by activating cannabinoid receptors in the brain and spinal cord.

In addition to its potential therapeutic benefits, medical cannabis is also a relatively safe treatment option for MS. A review of the safety and efficacy of medical cannabis for MS published in the journal Neurology found that adverse events associated with its use were generally mild to moderate in severity, and that serious adverse events were rare (Koppel et al., 2014). Another review published in the journal Clinical Therapeutics found that medical cannabis was well-tolerated by MS patients and did not increase their risk of cognitive impairment or abuse (Fraguas-Sanchez et al., 2016).

The ability of an individual medical condition to be treated by a drug depends on a variety of factors such as the nature of the condition, the pharmacological properties of the drug, the dosage, and the individual characteristics of the patient. Medical cannabis products vary widely in terms of their THC and CBD content, and the individual characteristics of the patient, such as age, weight, genetics, and other medical conditions can play a significant role in effective dosage and treatment.


Conclusion

Medical cannabis is a promising treatment option for MS that has the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of people. There is a growing body of research supporting the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis in MS and researchers are conducting clinical trials to further explore its safety and efficacy.


If you experience anxiety symptoms when using cannabis, incorporating the use of an indica strain may be beneficial. Indica strains typically have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC, which can help reduce anxiety symptoms without producing psychoactive effects. As with any medication, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using cannabis to treat anxiety symptoms.


Disclaimer:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The author is NOT a Doctor. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.



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