Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder of adult onset in the United States. It is a progressive neurological disorder that is characterized by motor symptoms such as trembling, rigidity, and difficulty walking. It can also cause non-motor symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and depression. While there is no known cure for Parkinson's disease, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms.
About 44% of the population with Parkinson's disease is currently using marijuana. Medical marijuana has been observed to improve both motor and non-motor symptoms including bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, sleep, and pain. Bradykinesia was the most common symptom that was alleviated among cannabis users, followed by muscle rigidity and tremor. Additionally, 14% of patients reported improvement of levodopa-induced dyskinesia with the use of cannabis. Cannabis may also help to improve mental clarity and reduce anxiety, however, larger studies are needed to completely understand this mechanism.
Cannabis works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, by interacting and activating different receptors. Endocannabinoids are produced in the body and help regulate memory, pleasure, concentration, thinking, movement, concentration, sensory and time perception, appetite, and pain. THC and CBD both activate different receptors in different areas of to help the brain and the body.
Additionally, it has been suggested that cannabis has been found to have neuroprotective properties against dopaminergic lesions, which can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Adverse effects of marijuana in Parkinson's disease include cognitive impairment, weight gain, unwanted mood changes. It is important to be monitored by your physician while taking medical cannabis. If you have Parkinson's disease and would like to add medical cannabis to your regimen, schedule with Dr. Allamon today.
*
Pros and Cons of Marijuana in Treatment of Parkinson’s DiseaseMonitoring Editor: Alexander Muacevic and John R AdlerPMCID: PMC6682376PMID: 31403009
Commentaires