Experts Confirm Weed Can Treat Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a common form of adult motor neuron disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It causes muscle control loss, which can worsen over time and may lead to death due to respiratory failure.

Studies have reported both direct and theoretical applications of cannabis to manage ALS. Some components of the plant have neuroprotective properties in laboratory studies, which is why ALS patients order weed online. Learn how cannabis helps in the management of ALS.

Key Takeaways:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has no cure, but a study says marijuana delays its symptoms.
• Cannabinoids offer a promising alternative to conventional therapies and include neuroprotective benefits.
• The components of marijuana can provide the most prolonged relief for mood or depressive symptoms.

Overview of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis starts with muscle twitching, weakness in an arm or leg, speech impediment, or difficulty swallowing. Over time, it affects the muscles needed for movement, speech, eating, and breathing.

It does not affect the senses, such as sight or hearing, nor does it impair mental functioning. It is not contagious, and there is no cure for the disease.

Types 

• Sporadic: This is when the condition happens randomly and is not inherited. 
• Familial: Inherited from one or both of the biological parents during conception. 

Causes and Risk Factors 

In most cases, researchers do not fully understand the cause of ALS. About 10% of cases involve genetic factors, with specific gene mutations contributing to the disease. For the majority of the cases, the cause remains unknown.

The established risk factors for ALS include:

• Genetics: Children who have parents with ALS may have a 50% chance of inheriting it.
• Age: ALS is most common between the ages of 60 and the mid-80s. The risk increases with age up to age 75. 
• Sex: Slightly more men develop ALS than women. This sex difference disappears after age 70.
• Race and ethnicity: White (non-Hispanic) people are most likely to get ALS.

Therapeutic Effects of Cannabinoids on ALS symptoms

Marijuana could help manage symptoms due to its pain relief, muscle relaxation, bronchodilation, etc. Specific cannabinoids in the plant interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce these effects.

• THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol: Known for its psychoactive effects. Provides pain relief, muscle relaxation, and appetite stimulation. Targets CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system.
• CBD or Cannabidiol: Non-psychoactive and well-tolerated. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic properties. Modulates serotonin receptors and neurotransmitter levels in the brain.

Expert Findings on Marijuana Impact in Treating ALS

Studies on ALS and cannabinoids have been of interest to scientists since the early 2000s. Surveys, preclinical trials, and reviews have examined how this plant can help manage the suffering of ALS patients.

University of Washington School of Medicine

The study conducted by the university is the first anonymous survey of patients with ALS regarding the use of cannabis. The results indicate that the plant may moderately reduce symptoms of appetite loss, depression, pain, spasticity, and drooling.

It is ineffective in reducing difficulties with swallowing, speech, and sexual dysfunction. The longest relief was reported for depression (approximately two to three hours).

Muscular Dystrophy Association Neuromuscular Disease Clinic

A review of preclinical and anecdotal data revealed that ALS patients might benefit from analgesia, muscle relaxation, bronchodilation, appetite stimulation, and sleep induction effects of cannabis. The plant’s strong antioxidative and neuroprotective effects may prolong neuronal cell survival. 

• Pain and immobility. Produce analgesia by modulating the activity of neurons in the rostral ventromedial medulla in a way that is similar to morphine.
• Spasticity. Inhibits the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathways in the central nervous system, which produces motor neuron inhibition at spinal levels. Baclofen, which also works via the GABA pathways, would theoretically be potentiated by marijuana. Unlike benzodiazepines, it does not cause respiratory depression.
• Wasting. Increase food enjoyment and the number of times patients eat per day. It does not affect taste or disrupt normal satiety mechanisms.
• Respiratory failure. Although cannabinoids are unlikely to improve respiratory muscle performance, they are effective bronchodilators. 

Muscular Dystrophy Association/Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Center

A clinical trial conducted on mice revealed that compounds in weed prolonged neuronal cell survival, delayed the onset of symptoms, and slowed the progression of the disease. These compounds are similar to those used in ALS treatment approaches.

• Glutamate antagonists
• Antioxidants
• Anti-inflammatory agents
• Microglial cell modulators (including TNF-alpha inhibitors)
• Antiapoptotic agents
• Neurotrophic growth factors
• Mitochondrial function enhancers

Revue Neurologique

This study is the first to present a large questionnaire-based survey on the use of cannabis for managing ALS symptoms in France. Of the 129 respondents, 28 (21.7%) reported using cannabis to relieve symptoms. Participants primarily used cannabidiol oil and weed. 

They use these products to manage motor symptoms (such as rigidity, cramps, and fasciculations) and non-motor symptoms (including improvements in sleep quality, pain relief, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life).

Only a small number of respondents (8 out of 28 users) reported minor adverse reactions. Relatively, cannabis use has a favourable safety profile.

Comparative Analysis: Marijuana vs. Conventional Treatments

In comparing marijuana with conventional treatments for ALS, several key aspects differentiate their approaches and effects on managing the disease:

Aspects	Conventional Treatment	Marijuana
Safety Profile	Risk of overdose, addiction, respiratory distress (opioids)	Less side effects, short term ( dizziness or cognitive impairment in high doses)
Quality of Life Improvement	Improve the quality of life, but sometimes, adverse reactions to certain medications can affect the quality	Improve the quality of life by targeting multiple symptoms
Consumption Method	Oral	Oral, topical, or inhalation
Onset	Take time to relieve symptoms	Rapid onset
Efficacy	Effective but only manages a specific symptom	Effective with neuroprotective properties
Cost	Expensive and depends on the drug	Affordable

Treat Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with Weed 

The clinical studies and surveys underscore several advantages of weed in treating Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. These benefits offer a holistic approach that addresses symptom management and potential disease-modifying effects. It can work alongside conventional treatment by providing fast-acting onset and neuroprotective effects. Get your cannabis products at GrassLife.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What type of cannabinoid can work best in managing Amyotrophic symptoms?

Most studies show that high-CBD: THC strains, such as an Indica flower, are beneficial in managing ALS symptoms. Some studies focus on the overall effects of the plant rather than individual cannabinoids.

Both major and minor cannabinoids in the plant contribute to managing symptoms. The entourage effect, combined with all cannabinoids and terpenes, offers a more comprehensive benefit. If you prefer a targeted approach, you can use products with high THC or CBD. Your choice will depend on whether you want to experience the classic high or focus solely on the plant’s therapeutic benefits.

How to integrate weed into a treatment plan for ALS?

• Consultation with Healthcare Provider: Before starting natural therapy, consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable about ALS and medical marijuana to provide personalized advice.
• Choosing Cannabinoid Ratios: Learn the difference between cannabinoids to master their different effects and tailor them to your aim and needs. 
• Selecting Administration Methods: You can consume weed through inhalation, oral ingestion, or topical application. Each method has different onset times and effect durations. Choose a method that aligns with your symptom management goals and preferences.
• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a low dosage and increase under medical supervision to assess tolerance and effectiveness. 
• Monitoring Symptoms: Regularly monitor symptoms such as muscle stiffness, pain levels, spasticity, and overall mobility. Track any changes in symptom severity or quality of life.

What is the most common method of consumption in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?

Most patients prefer smoking weed for its quick effects, while those who want to avoid the risks of smoking switch between vaping and smoking.

Edibles or oral consumption is another way to experience cannabinoid benefits. Although the onset is slower than inhalation, the effects can last longer. Oral consumption may be challenging for patients with dysphagia. 

For those with severe dysphagia, inhalation offers advantages beyond the rapid onset, especially when compared to currently available formulations.