Medical cannabis for severe muscle spasms — patient guide in Puerto Rico

Why it may help

Severe muscle spasms and spasticity happen when the signals that control muscle tone become overactive, leaving muscles clenched, twitching, or painfully rigid. The body's endocannabinoid system helps regulate this muscle-tone signaling through CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal cord and CB2 receptors tied to inflammation. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD interact with these receptors, and researchers believe this interaction may dampen the overactive nerve signaling that drives spasticity — the same mechanism behind the well-studied use of cannabinoids for muscle stiffness in multiple sclerosis.

How patients use it

People dealing with severe muscle spasms usually seek relief from painful stiffness, cramping, and the loss of comfort and mobility that comes with muscles that won't relax. Research suggests that by acting on the endocannabinoid receptors that regulate muscle tone, cannabinoids may help reduce spasticity and cramping and make movement and rest more comfortable for some patients. Response varies from person to person, and dosing should be guided by a licensed physician.

Strength of the evidence

The evidence is among the stronger areas of cannabis research: the 2017 National Academies report found substantial evidence that cannabinoids can improve patient-reported muscle spasticity, most clearly in multiple sclerosis, though objective measures and other causes of spasm are less firmly established.

Educational information grounded in established pharmacology and public sources. Not medical advice or a guarantee of results — treatment decisions are made with a licensed physician.

From the shelf

Where to start on the menu

Patients exploring relief for muscle spasms often start with our Pain Relief and Relax shelves.

These are navigational suggestions by effect, not medical directions. What you feel depends on a product's chemistry and your body — talk with your physician and our staff.