The Benefits of Cannabis in Treating ALS Patients

The Benefits of Cannabis in Treating ALS Patients

Few medical conditions strike more fear and despair in patients’ hearts as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This devastating disease causes extensive neurological damage, loss of function, and the shortening of a natural lifespan. ALS patients deserve relief from these cruel effects from a variety of sources. Learn about the promising findings in the use of cannabis in treating ALS patients.

 

What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) attacks the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These neurons are nerve cells responsible for the communication between the brain and muscles. Over time, the coordination between these two vital components deteriorates. Because of this breakdown, the brain increasingly loses its ability to control muscle movements.

 

Patients progressively lose their ability to perform ordinary activities such as speaking, walking, or using their hands. Eventually, essential involuntary functions such as breathing cease to work properly. At this time, there is no known cure for this unimaginable condition.

 

How Can Cannabis Help in the Treatment of ALS?

Promising developments provide hope in the use of cannabis in treating ALS patients. The active ingredients in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), offer multiple benefits in relieving ALS symptoms.

 

Both of these active ingredients work together as antioxidating, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective agents. These benefits show preliminary results for slowing and preventing further damage to ALS patients. (Learn more about effective ratios of THC and CBD in the application of medical marijuana here.)

 

What are the Findings of Current Medical Trials?

Clinical trials connect the use of cannabis to a variety of benefits in the fight against ALS. One strong example showed the effectiveness of Sativex, developed by GW Pharmaceuticals. This groundbreaking work found Sativex significantly reduced spasticity with no severe side effects.

 

One current study (NCT03690791) currently tests the outcomes of using CBD oil capsules on slowing disease progression. Another observational study underway (NCT03944447) reveals how medical cannabis acts in relieving various side effects of ALS’s degenerative nature. For extensive coverage of clinical trials, visit ALS Today: Cannabis.

 

When considering the benefits of cannabis in the treatment of ALS, turn to the dedicated staff of Medwell Health. Through our skilled guidance, our team can recommend products to be purchased at a dispensary tailored for your medical condition, needs, and preferences. Visit our website to learn about the safe and effective use of cannabis in the treatment of ALS and other debilitating conditions.