Medical Marijuana for Multiple Sclerosis in Florida
An autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system and causing spasticity and pain.
Medically reviewed by Bruce Stratt, MD
Board-Certified Physician · OMMU Certified · Boca Raton, FL
Overview
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This demyelination disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, causing a wide range of symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, coordination problems, muscle spasms and stiffness, difficulty eating, slurred speech, tremors, tingling, pain, and balance impairment. Over 2.3 million people worldwide are affected.
MS follows several clinical courses: 85% of patients have relapsing-remitting MS (alternating between attacks and remissions), while others experience progressive forms where symptoms continuously worsen. There is currently no cure. Conventional treatments including corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs attempt to slow progression but carry serious side effects — increased infection vulnerability, fluid retention, mood swings, elevated blood pressure, and insomnia. Some treatments can even damage the heart.
How Medical Cannabis May Help
Multiple Sclerosis has one of the strongest evidence bases for medical cannabis efficacy among all neurological conditions. Cannabinoids produce a powerful anti-inflammatory effect that acts as an immune suppressant, helping to slow MS progression and alleviate symptoms. Government-approved studies have demonstrated that cannabis can meaningfully reduce muscle stiffness, spasms, pain, abdominal issues, depression, and inflammation, while improving sleep quality. The UK and several European countries have approved Sativex (a THC:CBD spray) specifically for MS spasticity — one of the most disabling symptoms of the disease. Cannabis also provides meaningful relief from neuropathic pain, bladder dysfunction, and the insomnia that plagues many MS patients. Treatment can be administered through vaporization, edibles, topical applications, and other methods, with side effects that are mild compared to conventional immunosuppressive drugs. Dr. Stratt will work with each patient to determine the optimal strain and delivery method based on their specific MS type and symptom profile.
Individual results vary. Consult with Dr. Stratt to understand how cannabis therapy may apply to your specific situation.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Bring a valid Florida ID and neurology records confirming MS diagnosis (including MRI reports documenting lesion burden), current medication list, and documentation of specific symptoms.
Get Certified for Multiple Sclerosis
Schedule your evaluation with Dr. Stratt. Same-day state registry submissions for qualifying patients.