Medical Cannabis Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder of adult, is debilitating and can manifest as both motor and non-motor symptoms, which gradually develop and worsen over time.
PD Progressively Worsened
PD is caused by the progressive loss of neurons in a part of the brain, which leads to a decrease in levels of a chemical element, called dopamine. That results in the loss of control of voluntary movements, which is the appearance of motor symptoms, including resting tremor, muscle rigidity and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).
Other parts of the brain are also affected, which causes non-motor symptoms, including psychosis, cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety.
Current treatment is only valid during the early stages of the disease, and does not prevent its progression.
The Science Behind Medical Cannabis (MC)
Cannabis affects the body through neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers of the nervous system.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most important neurotransmitter systems in the body. Cannabinoids bind to CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors to produce new physiological reactions in the body. CB1 receptors are located mainly in the central nervous system, and CB2 receptors reside in organs and cells of the immune system.
The significant presence of cannabinoid receptors in the basal ganglia (part of a neuronal system for motor control) is the reason behind the significance of cannabis as medical treatment for PD and dyskinetic movement disorders.
Live a Good Quality of Life with MC for PD
Research demonstrates MC improves both motor and non-motor symptoms, including bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, tremor, sleep, emotion and pain.
Depression is a common symptom in PD, with a prevalence of up to 50%. Endocannabinoids regulate mood and behavior, and their loss can lead to depression. The use of cannabis can overcome depressive symptoms in PD patients. MC can also be counted for improving sleep, alleviating spasticity and relieving pain in people with PD. More importantly, MC also has neuroprotective properties, and delays the progression of PD.
Hence, MC can be used as an alternative or add-on treatment to help improve the overall quality of life for patients suffering from PD. In Germany, since 2017, MC has been approved as a therapy for patients with severe symptoms of PD, and is eligible for reimbursement in medical insurance.