Medically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC — Written by Aaron Kandola — Updated on April 7, 2021
Multiple sclerosis is a degenerative condition that affects the nerves in the central nervous system. There is currently no cure. Marijuana (cannabis) may be useful for treating several symptoms of the condition. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a serious and lifelong condition that causes a range of symptoms.
In people with MS, the immune system is overactive and causes damage to cells in the brain, spinal cord, or optic nerves that make up the central nervous system. Marijuana, which is also known as cannabis, is now legal in many areas of the United States.The term “cannabis” is preferable to marijuana, as the latter term has racist roots and connotations. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society supports the use of medical cannabis for people with MS in some instances and where it is lawful. According to a 2018 reviewTrusted Source, cannabis products were generally well-tolerated, and serious adverse effects were rare. However, adverse effects may occur, and cannabis may not be suitable for everyone.