Cannabidiol and Parkinson's Disease
What is Cannabidiol? CBD is a natural compound found in cannabis sativa plants. It lacks the adverse side effects of prescription drugs and does not produce the “high” associated with THC in marijuana. Studies indicate that CBD can alleviate debilitating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, offering a natural alternative to traditional medications that may become less effective over time.
Parkinson’s Disease Overview Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, affecting movement and mood. Symptoms can include chronic pain, and while there is no cure, symptoms can be managed with medication or surgery.
Medication Challenges
Traditional medications can have unpleasant short-term side effects and may lose effectiveness over time. Emerging research suggests CBD can offer therapeutic benefits for Parkinson’s patients, potentially alleviating symptoms like tremors, psychosis, and sleep disturbances.
How CBD Works
CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body as part of the endocannabinoid system, which regulates physiological operations such as appetite, pain sensitivity, mood, and memory. Research indicates CBD may help reduce tremors, psychosis, and sleep issues in Parkinson’s patients, as well as alleviate depression, anxiety, and pain.
Research and Benefits
CBD has shown anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant effects in studies. It may help manage non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as anxiety and sleep disorders. A 2020 study suggested that CBD could reduce anxiety and related tremors in PD patients.
Broader Applications
CBD is also being explored as a treatment for other health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. While studies are ongoing, initial results indicate CBD as a promising alternative to traditional medications.
Safety and Risks
CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, without evidence of abuse potential. However, side effects can include diarrhea, appetite changes, and fatigue. It’s important to discuss CBD with a healthcare provider, as it can interact with certain medications.
Prosense Clinic
The Prosense Clinic is a national leader in neurological rehabilitation, offering a multidisciplinary team and advanced technologies for enhancing independence and quality of life. They provide effective treatments and are committed to patient well-being. Contact Prosense to learn more about their Parkinson’s treatment options.
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The Prosense Clinic is a national leader in the rehabilitation of injuries and neurological problems. We bring innovations from around the world and provide the excellence you deserve! Schedule an assessment via WhatsApp or by phone: (11) 5199-9033 | (31) 3088-2135.
Prosense Director:
Dr. Michelle Coutinho Atherton
Founder – CEO – Neurofunctional Physiotherapist
Master in Neurology, UFMG
CREFITO: 118113F
Reference
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Zuardi AW, Crippa JA, Hallak JE, Pinto JP, Chagas MH, Rodrigues GG, Dursun SM, Tumas V. Cannabidiol for the treatment of psychosis in Parkinson’s disease. J Psychopharmacol. 2009 Nov;23(8):979-83. doi: 10.1177/0269881108096519. Epub 2008 Sep 18. PMID: 18801821.
Chagas MH, Zuardi AW, Tumas V, Pena-Pereira MA, Sobreira ET, Bergamaschi MM, dos Santos AC, Teixeira AL, Hallak JE, Crippa JA. Effects of cannabidiol in the treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease: an exploratory double-blind trial. J Psychopharmacol. 2014 Nov;28(11):1088-98. doi: 10.1177/0269881114550355. Epub 2014 Sep 18. PMID: 25237116.
Finseth TA, Hedeman JL, Brown RP 2nd, Johnson KI, Binder MS, Kluger BM. Self-reported efficacy of cannabis and other complementary medicine modalities by Parkinson’s disease patients in colorado. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:874849. doi: 10.1155/2015/874849. Epub 2015 Mar 2. PMID: 25821504; PMCID: PMC4363882.