French ALS Patients Turn to Cannabis for Symptom Relief, Study Finds
A study in Neurology finds 22% of French ALS patients use cannabis to manage symptoms, highlighting potential therapeutic benefits
Key Points
- 122% of French ALS patients use cannabis or CBD oil for symptom relief
- 2Study highlights cannabis' potential benefits for motor and non-motor symptoms
- 3Minor side effects reported, such as drowsiness and dry mouth
- 4Current research in Australia explores cannabis' impact on ALS progression
- 5ALS not included in France's medical cannabis experiment, limiting access
A new study published in Neurology reveals that approximately 22% of French patients suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are using cannabis or CBD oil to alleviate their symptoms. This groundbreaking research provides insight into the real-world application of cannabis in managing ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease also known as Lou Gehrig's or Charcot's disease
The survey participants reported several benefits from cannabis use, including improved motor functions, reduced pain, enhanced mood, and a better overall quality of life. The side effects experienced were minor, such as drowsiness and dry mouth, which are commonly associated with cannabinoid use. This data underscores the potential of cannabis as a therapeutic option for ALS symptoms
The authors of the study emphasize that this is the first extensive survey of its kind in France, highlighting the significant number of ALS patients turning to cannabis for relief. They advocate for further research to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in managing both motor and non-motor symptoms of ALS. This call for more studies reflects a growing interest in the medical community to understand the full potential of cannabis in treating neurodegenerative diseases
Preclinical models have suggested that cannabinoids might slow the progression of ALS and alleviate some of its symptoms. Currently, a randomized placebo-controlled trial is underway in Australia to investigate whether cannabis extracts can indeed decelerate ALS progression. These international research efforts are crucial as they could potentially lead to new treatment protocols for ALS
Despite these promising findings, ALS is not included in France's medical cannabis experiment, which limits patients' access to cannabis-based therapies. With approximately 7,000 people affected by ALS in France, the demand for alternative treatments is evident. As research continues to evolve, there is hope that regulatory frameworks will adapt to include ALS in medical cannabis programs, offering patients more comprehensive care options