CBD Oil for Multiple Sclerosis: What Does the Research Say?

CBD Oil For Multiple Sclerosis Research Image

Article summary:

  • We review research on CBD oil and multiple sclerosis.
  • You will learn about the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis and the current treatment options.
  • Important information on using CBD oil.
  • Finally, we discuss the likely directions future research might take.

 

Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the nervous system and can cause fatigue, walking difficulties, and speech problems. There is currently no cure, but treatment can help manage symptoms. Can CBD oil play a role in MS research? Here’s what recent studies suggest.

CBD Oil and Multiple Sclerosis: What the Research Suggests

Many people want to understand their options alongside standard care. Let’s take a closer look at recent research on CBD and multiple sclerosis.

A 2018 study examined CBD in an MS model and tracked inflammation-related markers. The researchers then reviewed the results.

In a 2016 animal study, researchers used 6.2 mg of CBD in rats and found changes in inflammation-related measures, but human evidence is still limited.

Another 2018 animal study looked at CBD in an MS model called EAE. The researchers examined changes in inflammation-related markers and immune cells in the nervous system.

Review of clinical trials

In recent years, several clinical trials have been conducted or are underway to study CBD oil and multiple sclerosis. These studies look at several areas, including:

  • CBD and wellness support
  • What research says about long-term CBD use
  • Finding the right CBD dosage
  • Interactions with other MS medications

     

Early findings on CBD and multiple sclerosis are mixed. Larger studies are still needed to better understand safety and potential uses.

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells, which can disrupt communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Over time, it can lead to lasting nerve damage.

Multiple sclerosis is named for the multiple areas where damage can occur. When myelin is damaged in several places, scar tissue can form. Doctors also call these areas plaques or lesions.

  • the brainstem;
  • the cerebellum;
  • the spinal cord;
  • the optic nerves
  • Certain areas of the brain’s white matter.


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Symptoms of multiple sclerosis

People with multiple sclerosis may have a wide range of symptoms, and those symptoms can vary from person to person. Severity can also change over time, from year to year, month to month, or even day to day.

The most common symptoms include:

 

  • muscle weakness and muscle cramps
  • numbness, tingling, and tremors
  • Lhermitte’s sign , an electric shock-like sensation when moving the neck;
  • bladder problems;
  • bowel issues;
  • fatigue
  • balance and coordination issues, dizziness;
  • sexual dysfunction
  • vision problems;
  • mood swings;
  • changes in mobility
  • learning and memory difficulties;
  • neuropathic pain.

 

MS symptoms can affect work, relationships, and daily life. Because the condition can change over time, care needs may change too.

Treatment of multiple sclerosis

MS currently has no cure, but medical treatments can help manage the condition and its symptoms.

Current treatment options include:

  • Disease-modifying medicines work by changing how the immune system responds. Depending on the medication, they may be taken by mouth, injection, or infusion. Current guidelines often recommend starting them early. These medicines can increase infection risk and may affect the liver.
  • Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They’re often used for acute flare-ups in some types of MS, but frequent use can cause harmful side effects.
  • Complementary approaches such as acupuncture and massage are sometimes used to support comfort and well-being.
  • Exercise to maintain strength and flexibility, reduce stiffness, and improve mood.
  • Healthy diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
  • Physical therapy for mobility support.
  • Support for emotional well-being.
  • Plasmapheresis is sometimes used for severe MS relapses, and research on its benefits is still mixed.


What is CBD?

Get the key details in one place.

CBD oil, cannabinoids, and the immune system

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil contains cannabidiol (CBD), a hemp-derived compound from Cannabis sativa. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-intoxicating. CBD and THC are both cannabinoids. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the brain and immune cells as part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Researchers continue to study the ECS and its role in normal body functions.

  • mood
  • appetite
  • metabolism;
  • memory; and
  • immune responses.

This connection helps explain why CBD has attracted research interest for many health conditions, including multiple sclerosis. It’s also no surprise that the possible effects of cannabinoids on the immune system have been studied for some time.

If you’d like to learn more about CBD oil, see our page, “What Is CBD? What Is CBD Oil Good For?” for background on how it’s made and how people describe using it.

CBD vs. THC: differences and similarities

As mentioned, both CBD and THC are cannabinoids, but they differ significantly. Here’s a brief comparison:

Characteristic

CBD

THC

Psychoactive effects

No additional comments.

Yes

Legal status

Legal status varies by location

CBD laws vary by country

CBD and health conditions

Potential uses

Limited uses

Side effects

Minimal

More pronounced

Cannabinoid and CBD-based medications

Researchers continue to study hemp-derived cannabinoids, including CBD, across a range of health topics. In some countries, CBD-containing medicines have been approved, including Sativex.

CBD Oil for Multiple Sclerosis: Why Medical Supervision Matters

If you’re considering CBD oil, it’s important to understand possible interactions and side effects, and to talk with a healthcare professional before using it.

Possible interactions between CBD and other medications

For people with multiple sclerosis, it’s especially important to talk with a doctor before using CBD oil, especially if they take multiple medications. Medical guidance can help review safety, possible interactions, and dosing questions.

  • Proper dosing
  • How to lower the risk of drug interactions
  • Monitoring response and side effects

Some other key points:

  • CBD may affect how your liver processes some medications.
  • If you take blood thinners, ask a healthcare professional before using CBD.
  • CBD may interact with certain anti-seizure medications.

 

Drug class

Possible interaction

Blood thinners

Increased bleeding risk

Anti-epileptic drugs

Different effects

Immunosuppressants

What the evidence suggests

 

CBD buying guide: what to know first

  • New to CBD oil? Learn how it works.
  • Learn more about the potential effects of CBD oil.

  • Not sure which CBD oil is right for you? We’ll help you compare our selection and choose the one that fits your needs.

  • And once you’re ready to try, see our full CBD oil range featuring carefully selected, lab-tested products.

Possible CBD side effects and recommended precautions

CBD oil may cause side effects in some people:

  • Dry mouth
  • Appetite changes
  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Diarrhea

Precautions:

  • Start with a low dose.
  • Watch for any changes or side effects.
  • Do not use CBD during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
  • Choose high-quality, reliable CBD products tested by third parties.

 

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CBD oil dosage: general guidance

Using CBD oil with multiple sclerosis calls for extra caution. It should be used only with guidance from a healthcare professional.

Tip: For more details about CBD, read our CBD oil guide.

Future directions in CBD research

Further study of CBD oil in multiple sclerosis remains a priority for researchers. Here’s a look at where the science may go next.

Research on combining CBD with other cannabinoids

Future research is expected to focus on the combined effects of CBD and other cannabinoids.

  • Exploring the role of minor cannabinoids, such as CBG and CBN.
  • Exploring how terpenes may work together.

These studies look at the “entourage effect”, the idea that cannabinoids and terpenes may work differently together than when used alone.

What researchers are still learning about the long-term effects of CBD

Most current studies are short term. Future research will likely focus on long-term safety and effects in people with multiple sclerosis.

Ongoing clinical trials

Many clinical trials are underway to learn more about CBD oil and multiple sclerosis. Future research may help clarify what we know about safety, use patterns, and other open questions. These studies may help answer topics such as:

  • A comparison of the main types of multiple sclerosis
  • CBD oil dosing: general guidance

 

Summary

Research on CBD and multiple sclerosis is still limited. More studies are needed to understand its possible role, safety, and how it may fit into overall care. People with multiple sclerosis should talk with their doctor before using CBD. As research continues, we may learn more about what CBD can and cannot do.

The CBD studies and research mentioned in this article can be accessed in their original language via the embedded links in the “Sources” section.



References and Scientific Sources

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