Around 50% of individuals with Parkinson’s disease develop some kind of depression. Delusions and hallucinations, known as PD psychosis, are possible complications of the disease.

About Parkinson’s disease

The progressive permanent condition, Parkinson’s disease, affects the nervous system. With time, slowed cognition and stiffness might develop. Eventually that causes severe symptoms like speech and moving difficulties. Some patients also experience tremors and posture changes. Researchers are always looking for therapies that can help Parkinson’s disease patients improve their quality of life and manage the disease. Medical cannabis is among the possible alternative treatments.

The potential benefits of medical marijuana for Parkinson’s disease

For Parkinson’s disease, cannabis is thought to offer several benefits such as:

• Pain relief
• Better quality sleep
• Reduced tremors
• Easier movement
• Improved overall health

The benefits are attributed to marijuana analgesic and muscle relaxing effects. Even though cannabis comes with some side effects, Parkinson’s disease patients prefer them to the other risk factors associated with the common medications. Some medications cause:

• Ankle swelling
• Constipation
• Skin blotching
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Hallucinations
• Memory problems
• Involuntary movements
• Nausea
• Urination problems
• Liver damage and
• Sleepiness

The science behind medical marijuana

The endocannabinoid system which is located in the brain and made up of cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are linked to neurons, brain cells, that help regulate thinking and various body functions.

Cannabinoids, the drug molecules in marijuana, have been studied and shown positive outcomes in treating symptoms like come along with Parkinson’s including, bradykinesia (slowness) and dyskinesia (excess movement.)

What researchers say

Most states have legalized medical cannabis and the studies into its benefits on health have been increasing. A study published in the year 2014 and involving 22 Parkinson’s disease patients showed that cannabis improves tremors, pain and sleep within 30 minutes of smoking the herb.

Another study published in the year 2010 showed that cannabinoids have effective anti-inflammatory properties. The active compounds, cannabinoids, in marijuana help reduce symptoms of various diseases related to Parkinson’s disease. Studies on potential impacts of cannabis on the Parkinson’s disease are ongoing but large studies are needed before the treatment is accepted worldwide.

If you would like to see if you qualify for medical marijuana in Florida, give us a call or request an appointment.