Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition affecting the central nervous system. Marijuana (cannabis) has been investigated for treating several symptoms of MS.

Is CBD legal? The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.

Some research has looked into the use of cannabis to help improve MS symptoms. This article discusses what we know about cannabis and MS so far.

Before using any CBD products, be sure to check the legal status in your area and always seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

There are more than 100 biologically active molecules found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Two are most often studied for their potential health benefits.

  • CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. It does not cause a “high” and is commonly sold as oils, gummies, capsules, and other products.
  • THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound that causes the intoxicating effects associated with cannabis.

According to the MS Society in the UK, some people report that cannabis helps with muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain, and a 2020 study also reported that most participants found cannabis helpful for reducing pain and spasticity.

Additionally, a 2026 review of nine clinical trials notes that cannabis-based therapies seem to improve muscle spasticity, especially over a longer time frame. However, crucially, the review also notes that there are potential biases and differences between the trials that may affect the findings.

Although early evidence may appear promising, more clinical trials must take place to determine how cannabis might affect MS symptoms and what the long term effects might be.

No cannabis product or medication is currently FDA-approved to treat MS.

Wellness supplements can vary in potency and typically will not match the levels used in clinical trials. They are also not checked by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before being put on the market.

So, it’s vital to exercise caution when choosing these products if you wish to try them.

Medical cannabis differs from the products you can buy OTC in supermarkets, health food stores, or online.

Medical cannabis is only available in certain regions, and — although illegal federally — many states allow its use for certain health conditions.

A person must typically register for a medical cannabis card and receive a doctor’s approval before they can buy medical cannabis from dispensaries.

In some states, a physician can prescribe medical cannabis “off-label”, which means for a condition that is not a qualifying medical condition. For example, marijuana is often used off-label to treat MS muscle spasms and pain.

Licensed pharmaceutical cannabinoid medications are approved in some countries for MS-related spasticity. An example is Sativex (nabiximols). However, Sativex is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because it did not meet the effectiveness criteria in clinical trials.

Cannabis without a medical prescription is not checked for safety or effectiveness by the FDA before being sold. Product quality can vary widely, so it’s important to be careful where you obtain it from.

And cannabis of any kind can have side effects. If THC is present in cannabis products, this can also have intoxicating and other unwanted effects.

Taking cannabis for MS symptoms will not be appropriate for every individual.

It’s important to speak with a doctor first, as they can provide tailored advice, guidance on MS treatment, and specific management plans, taking into account other medications you take and any other medical conditions you have.

Health authorities advise against smoking any type of cannabis due to the risk of lung damage.

Some scientific evidence suggests cannabis might help reduce pain, muscle problems, and bladder issues in MS.

However, the findings are not conclusive, and larger-scale clinical trials are needed to give a better picture of the role cannabis might play in MS management. Additionally, no standardized dosage or manufacturing procedures are established.

The long-term safety of treating MS with cannabis also requires more research.

Speak with a doctor before using cannabis products for MS symptoms to determine whether it is safe and suitable for your individual circumstances. If you do choose to try cannabis products, it’s important to source them carefully and be aware of the potential risks.