Multiple sclerosis (MS) spasticity
Moderate evidence for nabiximols (Sativex) on patient-reported MS spasticity. Sativex is Medsafe-approved and any NZ doctor can prescribe it.
Last reviewed 15 June 2026 · Education, not medical advice
Reasonable trial evidence, often for patient-reported (not objective) outcomes.
Can medicinal cannabis help with ms spasticity in NZ?
Moderate evidence for ms spasticity. Moderate evidence for nabiximols (Sativex) on patient-reported MS spasticity. Sativex is Medsafe-approved and any NZ doctor can prescribe it.There is no fixed list of qualifying conditions in NZ — whether it's appropriate for you is a clinical judgement for a registered doctor. This is education, not a treatment recommendation.
What the evidence says
Nabiximols (Sativex, a roughly 1:1 THC:CBD oromucosal spray) has moderate evidence for patient-reported spasticity, but weak or probably ineffective results on objective clinician-measured (Ashworth) scales — patients often feel better even when the exam scale changes little. It is an add-on after baclofen and tizanidine. NICE recommends a 4-week trial, continuing only with around 20% or more improvement. In NZ, Sativex is Medsafe-approved and all registered doctors have approval to prescribe it.
Cannabinoids studied
- Balanced THC:CBD
Key cautions
- THC effects: dizziness, fatigue, somnolence, impaired concentration.
- Falls risk and driving impairment.
- Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Sources
Peer-reviewed reviews, trial data and official guidance. We never fabricate figures.
What to do next
If you think medicinal cannabis might help with ms spasticity, the next step is a conversation with a registered New Zealand doctor, who can weigh your individual situation. Start with your own GP or a clinic that focuses on cannabis medicine. Our step-by-step pathway walks through the whole process, and our self-check can help you prepare.
This is general information, not medical advice. Only a registered New Zealand doctor can decide whether medicinal cannabis is right for you.
Reviewed for accuracy by the mc.nz editorial team against the cited sources. Last reviewed 15 June 2026.