Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a condition of the nervous system affecting movement that is linked to damaged tissue in areas of the brain responsible for dopamine production. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease worsens over time, impacting additional brain functions such as memory/learning.

Causes / Predispositions

The exact cause(s) of Parkinson’s disease are not yet known. Factors that may contribute to Parkinson’s disease include:

Family History
Genetic Predisposition
Age (50 and Over)

Symptoms

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease include:

Tremors
Slow Movement (Bradykinesia)
Impaired Balance
Impaired Speech
Stiffness
Sleep Disturbance
Fatigue
Postural Hypotension
Depression
Anxiety
Confusion
Psychosis
Constipation
Difficulty Urinating
Difficulty Swallowing
Loss of Sense of Smell

TRADITIONAL TREATMENTS

The priority of treatment in patients with Parkinson’s disease is to maximize symptom management. Currently there is no cure or method by which to stop the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Due to side effects associated with medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease, patients often delay treatment until the severity of symptoms increases.

Medication

Levodopa/Dopamine Agonists
Amantadine
Anticholinergics
COMT Inhibitors
MAO-B inhibitors

Additional Treatment Options

Physiotherapy
Regular Exercise
Speech Therapy
Surgery (Deep Brain Stimulation)

Treatment with Cannabis Medicine

Research suggests that cannabis medicine can potentially relieve motor symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease by altering dopamine signalling through activating CB1 receptors. Studies also indicate that cannabis may have the potential to protect brain cells from damage, and that THC may significantly reduce dyskinesia. Additional research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potentials and possible side effects of cannabis medicine as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease.

Recommended Intake Method(s)

Edible Oils – Useful as a preventative treatment. Effectiveness limited by slow onset.
Inhalation via Vaporizer – Useful in achieving immediate relief as needed due to fast onset.