Medical Marijuana for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

If you or a loved one is struggling with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), you should know that medical marijuana may be available for treating symptoms of this condition. Schedule an appointment with us at 888-316-9085 to start your evaluation process!

    Get Your MMJ Card!

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    ALS is a terminal neurodegenerative condition that causes dysfunction of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement.

    The disease is characterized by relentless weakening and wasting away of muscles. ALS, however, does not impact a person’s senses (vision, hearing, taste, smell, and touch), intellectual reasoning, or the bowel and bladder functions.

    With the legalization of medical marijuana growing throughout the United States, an increasing number of people are transitioning from harmful opioids to cannabis to treat symptoms of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

    Compassionate Certification Centers is here to help you determine if medical marijuana be a beneficial therapeutic tool in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) treatment. We also want to ensure that cannabis ALS treatment is a safe and effective alternative for your qualifying condition.

    What is the Cause and Stages of ALS?

    The exact cause for ALS is ambiguous, but experts theorize that environmental and genetic factors may be contributing to the deterioration of motor neurons.

    The disorder often begins with muscle twitching or mild slurring of words but in the later stage affects walking, chewing, swallowing, speaking and the ability to breathe which eventually results in demise due to respiratory failure.

    Statistics to Consider

    • Between 2 and 5 in every 100,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with ALS
    • The condition typically strikes individuals between 40 and 70 years although it can occur at a younger age
    • Most patients live for 3 to 5 years after the onset of symptoms, but some may survive 10 years or longer

    Qualifying Conditions of ALS

    • Progressive Muscular Atrophy
    • Restrictive Lung Disease Due to ALS
    • Restrictive Lung Mechanics Due to ALS
    • Amyotrophia
    • Amyotrophy
    • Duchenne-Aran Muscular Atrophy
    • Sclerosis

    On suspecting the condition, it’s important to consult a doctor and undergo a number of lab tests for a proper diagnosis, such as:

    • Muscle and nerve biopsy
    • Spinal tap
    • X-rays
    • MRI
    • Electro-diagnostic procedures

    Common ALS Symptoms

    ALS symptoms may differ from person to person. But the most common signs include:

    • Twitching and cramping of muscles
    • Fatigue
    • Tripping and falling
    • Clumsiness
    • Slurred speech
    • Uncontrollable bouts of laughing/crying
    • Difficulty in swallowing
    • Breathing problems

    Therapeutic Benefits of Cannabis Treatment for ALS

    Over the last few decades, there has been a lot of focus on the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids (vital components of medical marijuana) in the management of the central nervous system disease.

    Reduce Nerve Damage:

    Research on animal models suggests the potent antioxidant, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis derivatives show promise in reducing some of the nerve damage which is a key issue for ALS patients.

    Slow the Progression:

    While there is no substantial evidence from clinical trials that cannabis-based medical treatment can cure ALS, several observational studies indicate that it can delay the progression of the ailment and increase life expectancy.

    Relief From the Symptoms:

    Also, careful dosing of medical marijuana can improve the quality of life by helping alleviate the symptoms related to the lethal disease such as muscle spasticity, immobility, drooling, dysarthria, insomnia, depression, appetite loss and pain to name a few.

    That said, there is a need to observe caution and consult a licensed doctor about the pros and cons of cannabinoid medicine alongside the possibility of interactions/side effects with prescription drugs before giving it a shot for ALS treatment.

    How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card for ALS

    Due to the seriousness of the disease, many states have legalized the use of medical marijuana for ALS. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to get your medical marijuana card:

    1. Register over the phone or online
    2. Talk to a medical marijuana doctor
    3. Get your medical marijuana card

    Compassionate Certification Centers is here to provide you with the support, care, and guidance you need to get certified for a medical marijuana card. Schedule an appointment with us at 888-316-9085 to start your evaluation process!

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