Cannabinoids in Neurologic Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis and Cannabis – Benefits, Risks, and Special Considerations People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are interested in and use cannabis, and MS health professionals may be involved in the decision-making process about cannabis and provide care to those with MS who use cannabis. There is evidence that cannabis has therapeutic symptomatic effects in MS. Likewise, there is evidence that cannabis has side effects, drug interactions, and other potentially significant negative effects. People with MS and health professionals may not be knowledgeable about these potential beneficial and adverse effects and, as a result, in the MS community, informed decision-making may not be occurring. The aim of this chapter is to provide practical, MS-relevant information about the benefits and risks of cannabis so that, as with any medication, health professionals may effectively provide objective cannabis information, facilitate informed decision-making, and optimize safety and effectiveness in those patients who choose to use cannabis.