ALS & CBD Oil: Promising Research on Cannabinoids & Buying Tips

Written by Jason Brett — Edited by Cathy Rozyczko on September 24, 2021 — Reviewed by Sarah Neidler, PHD

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a neurodegenerative disease with no known cause and as of right now, no known cure.

It is a condition in which the nerve cells in the spinal cord, brain and motor cortex degenerate, leaving connections between the body and its muscles damaged, ultimately resulting in muscular atrophy. But, there is some good news: using CBD oil for ALS symptoms may provide sufferers with much-needed relief.

Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

It seems that ALS strikes randomly, but it primarily affects men between the ages of 40-70. Only 5-10% of cases are deemed to be familial, or hereditary, with the remaining 90-95% of all cases being classified as “sporadic”. Sporadic means the disease occurs without warning or any identifiable cause. It is a cruel, difficult, disease that researchers are working hard to understand, and significant resources are being put toward finding a cure.

At this point in time, the average lifespan for someone suffering from ALS is 3 to 5 years from the onset of symptoms. Unfortunately, the treatment which is currently available works only to slow down the cell deterioration, not stop it. Riluzole is the medication prescribed to slow deterioration, with other medications are typically prescribed in tandem to combat constipation, pain, sleep problems, depression, cramps, and muscle spasms. It is little wonder that people are looking to CBD oil for possible help.

While the research is still very early, cannabinoids may hold promise as a means for slowing the progression of ALS symptoms. However, at this point the research only consists of animal studies, making it yet to be proven as an effective treatment in humans.

If you’re considering trying CBD to help with your ALS, first speak with your doctor—there could be drug interactions or potential health risks you aren’t aware of. You can also reference this chart for a general idea of how taking CBD oil alone, or in conjunction with current ALS medications, could affect you.

While CBD oil is not a cure for ALS, it may offer some relief from the disease’s many symptoms.

There are numerous benefits in the use of CBD for ALS sufferers, the most predominant benefits include the slowing of the progression of the disease, pain relief, and the reduction of spasticity.

Effectiveness of Using CBD Oil for ALS

While research and studies are ongoing, it appears that cannabinoids, and CBD specifically, could play a role in treating ALS. CBD might provide symptom relief, but from the presented animal studies, one cannot yet conclude that CBD could treat ALS in humans. Read on for more information…

A study by the Institute of Neurology at University College London examined the effects of cannabinoids on SOD1 mice, which are test mice that have been modified to exhibit some ALS symptoms. The mice were displaying symptoms at the time of testing and were treated with a synthetic cannabinoid. This cannabinoid was shown to “significantly delay disease progression” and produced “significant neuroprotective effects in this model of ALS.”

Another study by the California Pacific Medical Center of San Francisco tested the effects of cannabinoids on excitotoxic and oxidative cell damage, both of which are thought to contribute to the neurodegenerative effects of ALS. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was shown to be an effective treatment in mice if administered either before or after the onset of signs of ALS. If cannabinoids were administered at the onset of tremors, it was found that motor impairment was delayed and survival was prolonged. While this study did not include CBD, it is another example of the way in which these phytocannabinoids from cannabis and hemp plants can offer possible health benefits.

For fully conclusive results, more testing is needed but these results are exciting and promising for extending the quality of life for ALS sufferers.

CBD Oil for Pain

CBD works directly and indirectly with the endocannabinoid system to reduce the way in which pain is experienced in the body. Cannabinoid receptors can be found both within the brain (CB1 receptors) and throughout the body (CB2 receptors). The CB2 receptors are those which are responsible for regulating inflammation and pain. It’s believed that cannabidiol (CBD) works indirectly on CB2 receptors to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

CBD works on non-cannabinoid receptors as well.

Glycine receptors in the central nervous system have a major role in how the body perceives pain. Studies have shown that CBD can increase the effects of these receptors, causing a significant reduction in neuropathic pain.

One study by the University of California looked at the impact of vaporized cannabis on the treatment of neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord injury and disease. The findings showed that cannabis scored similarly to two commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals in terms of analgesic properties. This is significant because CBD and other cannabinoids do not carry the same side effects or risk for addiction as many prescription painkillers.

Finally, a review of CBD studies conducted between 1980 and 2007 found that CBD oil was effective at treating pain with very few side effects. This places CBD oil as a viable alternative to typical pain medications.

CBD Oil for Spasticity

While clinical trials are severely lacking when it comes to CBD and ALS, there is evidence to suggest that positive results can be expected in the treatment of spasticity.

The University of Washington School of Medicine conducted a survey on cannabis use in ALS patients. Of the 131 respondents, 13 said they used cannabis during the previous 12 months. While these numbers are small, the results indicated that cannabinoids may be effective in reducing the symptoms of “appetite loss, depression, pain, spasticity, and drooling.”

The University of Washington Medical Center supports these findings and because cannabis has shown potential for ALS symptoms by providing “muscle relaxation, bronchodilation, saliva reduction, appetite stimulation, and sleep induction,” they have called for more study and research immediately. The researchers even go so far as to say, “Based on the currently available scientific data, it is reasonable to think that cannabis might significantly slow the progression of ALS, potentially extending life expectancy and substantially reducing the overall burden of the disease.”

There may be a lack of research at the moment in relation to spasticity caused by ALS but there are plenty of published studies dealing with other spastic conditions. Numerous published studies point to the benefits of cannabinoids in treating the symptoms of conditions like Parkinson’s Disease and multiple sclerosis. In a 2014 study, for example, Parkinson’s sufferers who had been administered CBD saw a reduction in tremors and spasticity.

How to Use CBD Oil for ALS

The decision to use CBD oil for ALS symptoms is a personal one, and will look different for each person.

Some ALS patients will choose to add CBD oil to their daily routine as a way to keep symptoms under control in a consistent, holistic way, while others will prefer to use CBD oil when their symptoms appear or become problematic.

As an ALS patient, if you find that traditional ALS treatments are not working the way you’d like or you are suffering from the many possible side effects of pharmaceutical medications, CBD oil may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Before you decide how to take CBD oil for ALS, it is essential that you talk to your doctor first. There are risks associated with using CBD oil in conjunction with common ALS medications, and while CBD oil has very few side effects, and their appearance is rare, there is a possibility of fatigue, dry mouth, diarrhea, and liver damage. Talking to your doctor can help determine if CBD oil is the safest and most effective option.

Different CBD Oil Products

There are a few different ways to administer CBD oil. The CBD product that is most effective for you will depend on your preferences and severity of symptoms.

CBD oil inhalants:   CBD vape oils and CBD flower are among the most popular ways to take CBD oil. These delivery methods are familiar and show their effects quickly. The CBD bypasses the digestive system and is absorbed into the bloodstream directly through the lungs. These methods are great for sudden pain or spasticity. But, the effects do not last long, meaning it may be necessary to take another dose an hour or so later. It should be kept in mind that vaping and smoking are not always accessible options and it can be difficult to get the dosage right. Typically, the dosage is calculated on a “per inhale” basis, but an inhale can vary widely from person to person.

CBD oil capsules:   CBD oil capsules are easy and convenient delivery methods. Most people will be comfortable with capsules as they are another familiar delivery method and will provide a consistent dose. The same can be said for CBD oil edibles, like gummies. Unfortunately, they can also take a while to show effects. These methods have to be digested and processed by the liver so depending on stomach contents and metabolism, they can take up to an hour to work, but effects typically last 4 to 6 hours.

CBD Oil Drops or Tinctures:   A CBD oil tincture or drops do not have to be digested in the same way as an edible or capsule. Taken under the tongue, the CBD is absorbed from there, going to work in about 30 minutes. They allow for maximum dosage control, with the ability to adjust up or down down to a single drop. In both capsules and drops, the effects can last between 2 to 4 hours.

CBD oil topicals:   CBD oil topicals are an option best used for targeted pain relief. For muscle cramps, pain, and spasticity, CBD oil topicals can be applied directly to the site for targeted relief. While these methods can take a while to show effects, they will last the longest of all methods.

Again, it’s essential to consult your doctor before you begin using CBD oil. CBD is mostly safe but it can interact with some of your current prescriptions, including antidepressants and antibiotics. There is also a small percentage of the population that may be sensitive to cannabinoids so it is best to have a doctor monitor your efforts.

For a more in-depth breakdown of all the different CBD delivery methods, check out our Beginner’s Guide to CBD Oil.

Dosage of CBD Oil for ALS

Unless told otherwise by your doctor, always begin by following the recommended dosage on the information sheet included with your CBD product. There is no universal dose of CBD oil, and how it impacts you will depend on a variety of factors like the type of CBD product and your metabolism.

At CBD Oil Review, we have analyzed hundreds of products and come up with a standard serving suggestion to get you started, if you need further assistance:

The CBD Oil Review Serving Standard is 25mg of CBD, taken twice daily

If you are not getting results from this amount, we recommend increasing the serving size by 25mg every 3 to 4 weeks until you find relief.

To better understand how much CBD oil to take, check out our dosage tips here. You should also consider speaking to a naturopathic doctor for an ALS treatment plan that’s personalized for your needs.

Best CBD Oil for ALS

The best CBD oil products for ALS will be the ones that work for you.

Delivery methods should be considered carefully when it comes to ALS. Given that difficulty swallowing is one of the primary symptoms associated with the disease, a CBD oil capsule may only be an ideal format in the early stages of the illness. As it progresses, vapes or tinctures may be easier to administer.

When it comes to reaping the possible benefits of CBD oil, quality matters. It is important you buy the best products available. Here are some hints to help you narrow your search:

• Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA):  Reputable brands are transparent brands. They will test their extractions in an outside lab and post the results in a Certificate of Analysis. This analysis will tell you exactly what is in your product and allow you to verify the CBD and THC content, while also giving you insight to whether the product contains harmful chemicals, pesticides, or heavy metals.
• Buy Organic:  Whenever possible, buy a product that has been sourced from organically grown hemp. This will ensure that your product is free of residues from herbicides and pesticides.
• Understand The Law:  While the 2018 Farm Bill allows for the legal sale of CBD oil extracted from industrial hemp plants with a THC content of 0.3% or below, some states have restrictions around the sale and purchase of CBD oil. Be sure to know the law in your specific state before making any purchase.

While more research is needed to fully understand all the ways CBD oil can be used to treat ALS, the information currently available is promising. If you’d like to use CBD oil to treat ALS symptoms, remember to speak to your doctor. Together the two of you can work out a safe treatment plan.

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