Medical Cannabis for ALS — Switzerland 2026
In ALS cannabis relieves spasticity, pain, salivation and sleep — palliatively highly effective. Much cheaper for members.
TL;DR: The Italian CANALS trial 2019 (Riva, Lancet Neurology) showed Sativex efficacy on spasticity in ALS. Cannabis addresses four ALS symptoms at once: spasticity, cramps, hypersalivation, sleep. Starting dose Sativex 2–4 sprays/day or dronabinol 2.5 mg twice daily. CannabisClub members: 50 CHF flat instead of 190.
What CANALS shows
Riva 2019 (RCT, n=59): Sativex over 6 weeks — significant reduction in spasticity (MAS score) vs placebo, well tolerated.
Retrospective cohorts: 70 % of ALS patients report benefit on cramps, sleep, appetite.
Preclinical: CBD neuroprotective in SOD1 mouse model — no disease slowing proven in humans.
Preparations & dosing
Sativex® 2–8 sprays/day for spasticity and pain.
Dronabinol 2.5–5 mg twice daily for appetite and sleep.
CBD oil 25–50 mg twice daily adjuvant for cramps.
Vaporised flower difficult due to bulbar symptoms — prefer oral forms.
Save as a CannabisClub member
ALS neurology follow-up rarely covers cannabis. External consult 190 CHF, member 50 CHF flat. Registration free.
FAQ
Does cannabis slow ALS?
No. Only acts symptomatically on spasticity, cramps, sleep, appetite — not on motor neuron death.
What does membership save?
50 CHF instead of 190 CHF per consultation. Registration free.
Does insurance cover Sativex in ALS?
Off-label; art. 71a HIO coverage possible if spasticity documented.