By: Dr. James W. Stark

The AAN issued a statement on their review of medical marijuana use in various neurologic conditions. The review concludes “that certain forms of medical marijuana (only in pill or oral spray form) can help treat some symptoms of MS. These include spasticity, certain types of pain (pain related to spasticity, including painful spasms, and painful burning and numbness) and overactive bladder.” A spray form called Sativex is available in Europe and is currently being tested in this country for the treatment of spasticity. However, smoked marijuana has been clearly shown to worsen cognitive dysfunction and fatigue and the inflammation associated with inhalation of smoke itself may also be harmful to MS patients. 

Here is the full AAN release:

https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/1276