Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition affecting approximately 130,000 people in the UK. It causes a wide range of symptoms including spasticity (muscle stiffness and spasms), neuropathic pain, fatigue, bladder problems, and cognitive difficulties. Medical cannabis has one of its strongest evidence bases in MS — Sativex (nabiximols), a cannabis-based oral spray, is licensed in the UK specifically for MS spasticity. Beyond Sativex, a range of CBMPs can be prescribed for MS-related symptoms.
How Medical Cannabis Can Help
Cannabinoids act on CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal cord that regulate muscle tone and pain signalling. THC and CBD can reduce spasticity, decrease neuropathic pain, and improve sleep quality in MS patients. For patients who do not respond to or cannot tolerate Sativex, specialist clinicians can prescribe other CBMPs as part of a personalised treatment plan. MEDCANN works with clinicians experienced in neurological conditions.
Key Benefits for Multiple Sclerosis Patients
- Reduced muscle spasticity and spasms
- Decreased neuropathic pain
- Improved sleep quality
- Reduced fatigue in some patients
- Clinically supervised, GPhC-dispensed medication
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible for medical cannabis for MS if you have a confirmed MS diagnosis, experience spasticity, pain, or sleep disturbance that has not been adequately controlled by conventional treatments, and are a UK resident aged 18 or over. Your neurologist's records will be reviewed as part of the assessment.
Start My Eligibility CheckFrequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis licensed for MS in the UK?
Yes. Sativex (nabiximols), a cannabis-based oral spray, is licensed in the UK for the treatment of MS spasticity. Other cannabis-based medicinal products can also be prescribed by specialist clinicians for MS-related symptoms including pain and sleep disturbance.
Can I get medical cannabis for MS on the NHS?
Sativex can be prescribed on the NHS for MS spasticity in England, though access varies by region. For other MS symptoms or where NHS access is difficult, private prescriptions through MEDCANN are available.
Will medical cannabis interact with my MS medications?
Potential drug interactions will be reviewed by your prescribing clinician at your initial consultation. It is important to provide a full list of your current medications. Most MS disease-modifying therapies do not have significant interactions with CBMPs.
How is medical cannabis delivered for MS — do I have to smoke it?
No. Medical cannabis for MS is most commonly prescribed as an oral spray (Sativex), oil, or capsules. Vaporisation of flower is also an option for some patients. Your clinician will recommend the most appropriate delivery method for your condition and lifestyle.
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Ready to Start Your Treatment Journey?
Book an initial consultation with one of our specialist clinicians. If medical cannabis is appropriate for your multiple sclerosis, a prescription will be issued and your medication dispensed and delivered by MEDCANN Pharmacy.