What is the effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on muscle spasms?

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Last updated: May 23, 2025View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 59 ML Bottle Box MDSCIENCE™CANNABIDIOLTHE SCIENCE OF HEALTHY CBD 250MG TOTAL CBDMUSCLE AND JOINTPAIN RELIEFCREAM 2FL OZ (59ML) The answer to Cbd muscle spasm is that the drug label mentions MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF, which implies that cannabidiol may be used for relief of muscle spasms associated with pain, but it does not directly state its effectiveness for muscle spasm.

  • The label does mention MUSCLE
  • It is related to pain relief However, the evidence is not clear, so a conservative clinical decision would be to consult other sources or a medical professional for a definitive answer 1

From the Research

CBD may be considered as an alternative treatment for muscle spasms, but its efficacy and safety are not well-established compared to other treatments like baclofen and tizanidine, which have been shown to be effective in reducing spasticity and musculoskeletal pain 2. When considering treatment options for muscle spasms, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of each medication.

  • Baclofen and tizanidine are two commonly used muscle relaxants that have been shown to be effective in reducing spasticity and musculoskeletal pain 3, 4.
  • However, a recent study found that baclofen is associated with a higher risk of injury and delirium compared to tizanidine in older adults with musculoskeletal pain 2.
  • CBD, on the other hand, has been suggested as a potential treatment for muscle spasms due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in muscle function and pain regulation.
  • The typical starting dose of CBD oil for muscle spasm relief is 5-10mg taken sublingually twice daily, gradually increasing to 20-40mg per dose if needed, and topical CBD products can also be applied directly to affected muscles 2-4 times daily.
  • However, the evidence for CBD's efficacy and safety in treating muscle spasms is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
  • In the meantime, tizanidine may be a safer alternative to baclofen for older adults with musculoskeletal pain, due to its lower risk of injury and delirium 2.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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