Parkinson’s Disease is a degenerative neurological disorder caused by a progressive loss of dopamine cells in the brain. Patients living with Parkinson’s experience tremors, impaired movement and pain, in addition to increased symptoms of dementia, mood disturbances and sleep disorders. For many, medical cannabis has been found to provide relief, leading to increased interest in the potential role of medical cannabis in Parkinson’s treatment.
Why Cannabis?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Commonly prescribed pharmaceutical drugs are available to increase dopamine levels and slow the progression of the disease, but not without significant side-effects. Patients treating Parkinson’s Disease with medical cannabis frequently report a range of symptomatic improvements, though there remains a need for additional research into how cannabis impacts the condition. Of particular interest is the fact that Parkinson’s patients have been found to produce increased levels of naturally-occurring endocannabinoids within the body, which may indicate that cannabinoid-based therapies could open the door to new treatment options. The neuroprotective properties of high-CBD cannabis could also provide a potential intervention against the progression of the disease.
Cannabis Treatment Options
Though much remains to be discovered about the role of medical cannabis in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, many patients are already having success with symptom relief. Strains high in THC are widely available and can be helpful for treating pain, elevating mood, assisting with sleep, and more. Since the nature and severity of symptoms can vary considerably, patients may select strains and formats that best meet their individual needs. Additionally, there is considerable interest in the possibility that CBD-rich strains could be found to impact the progression of the disease. Since CBD-based products carry few side-effects and could prove to provide long-term benefits, patients may choose to include CBD in their treatment regimen as well.
Conclusion
As interest in the role of cannabis in Parkinson’s treatment continues to grow, we expect to see increased research in the years to come. We’re hopeful that the positive outcomes achieved by many patients will be complemented by a more robust scientific understanding that can better inform decisions about dosage and product selection. We’ll continue to follow the latest research and update our resources as we learn more. As always, our staff is happy to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals to help you discover the best options for your individual needs.
