Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a condition that impacts motor neurons. Motor neurons help individuals with every type of movement. Individuals with ALS lose control of their muscles at varying rates.
ALS is fatal. It has no cure, but some treatment options can slow its progression. This condition impacts muscle control but not mental functioning or capabilities. ALS is not contagious.
While ALS can begin at a younger age, most people start experiencing symptoms between the ages of 40 and 70. The two types of ALS are familial and sporadic. Sporadic ALS has no known cause, and it’s the most common type. Familial ALS likely has a genetic component, but more research is needed to understand this variety of the condition.
What Causes ALS?
There is no known cause for ALS. Researchers hope that a cause for sporadic ALS and a cure will be discovered soon. Over 90% of ALS diagnoses are sporadic, while about 10% may be linked to genetic mutations, particularly those in the C9orf72 and SOD-1 genes.
ALS Signs & Symptoms
The beginning symptoms of ALS are different for everyone. Some people won’t be able to use their limbs effectively, while others won’t be able to stop laughing. Most of the beginning symptoms of ALS affect the limbs and eventually spread to the rest of the body.
Other possible symptoms of ALS include:
- Muscle twitches & cramping,
- Stiff muscles,
- Slurred speech,
- Limb weakness.
As the condition progresses, common symptoms include:
- Paralysis,
- Difficulty breathing,
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing,
- Speaking or forming words,
- Maintaining weight,
- Anxiety,
- Depression.
Can Cannabis Help Alleviate Symptoms of ALS?
Researchers believe more studies are needed to examine the effects of cannabis on ALS. Current rat and in vivo studies indicate that cannabinoids demonstrate the potential to help treat symptoms of ALS while also improving motor impairment and increasing the rate of survival. CBN has also been shown to delay the onset of ALS in mice.
Research has also suggested that Sativex, a THC:CBD spray with 2.7mg and 2.5mg, respectively, may alleviate some symptoms associated with ALS; however, in 2019, an observational study found that 40% of participants stopped the use of Sativex. Earlier observational studies on individuals with ALS demonstrate that of the 10% that admit cannabis use, they find cannabis to help with symptoms like depression, pain, drooling, and appetite loss. CBN has also been demonstrated in animal studies to slow the onset of ALS.2
Although the current research shows that cannabinoids may be promising for the treatment of ALS symptoms, more clinical trials are necessary to determine cannabinoid dosing and the best methods of administration for ALS patients.
Legality and Doctor’s Recommendation
To determine if your state considers ALS to be a qualifying condition for medical marijuana, check out our Laws & Regulations section for the medical cannabis rules for your state.
If you find that your state recognizes ALS or its symptoms as a qualifying medical condition, you can seek a doctor’s recommendation to get your medical cannabis card in your state.
How NuggMD Can Help
NuggMD is the nation's leading medical marijuana technology platform, serving patients in over half the United States. We’ve connected over 1,300,000 patients with their new medical marijuana doctors face-to-face via our state-of-the-art telemedicine platform.
We believe that every human being has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore all of their options in their journey to wellness. For further information on whether you qualify for medical cannabis, select your state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis & ALS
What is the best strain for ALS?
There is not one particular strain that has been identified as being helpful for ALS, but early clinical trials show that a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC may have positive effects on ALS symptoms in patients.
Can I use cannabis oil for ALS?
Cannabis oil may provide benefits for those with ALS, but there isn’t enough research to make a definitive claim. If you’re considering using cannabis oil, speak with your medical team before adding any cannabis to your routine.
Will cannabis cure ALS?
No, there is no cure for ALS. It’s possible that cannabis may help with ALS symptoms, but it will not cure the condition.
Is it too late to start using cannabis for ALS?
While cannabis use will not reverse the progression of ALS, many patients with ALS have found cannabis helpful for alleviating symptoms.
Should I smoke cannabis or take an edible?
Smoking cannabis can provide quicker results, but there are some drawbacks. Smoking any substance can have negative effects on the cardiovascular system and other parts of the body, so it may be especially harmful for individuals with ALS. If you’re using cannabis for ALS symptoms, an edible or tincture may be more suitable.
Resources
- Giacoppo S, Mazzon E. Can cannabinoids be a potential therapeutic tool in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?. Neural Regen Res. 2016;11(12):1896-1899. doi:10.4103/1673-5374.197125
- Meyer T, Funke A, Münch C, et al. Real world experience of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the treatment of spasticity using tetrahydrocannabinol:cannabidiol (THC:CBD). BMC Neurology. 2019;19(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-019-1443-y
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
