Report of growing usage of Cannabis by patients with Parkinson’s Disease in US

An evidence-based study conducted by the Parkinson’s Foundation in US indicates a growing number of Americans with Parkinson’s Disease are consuming cannabis for relief. A survey on cannabis use among people living with Parkinson’s Disease in the U.S., was distributed to 7,607 people from 48 states in January 2020, with 1,064 complete responses analyzed.

The survey which asked specific questions about cannabis use ― from symptom management to motivation for use and side effects ― and questions for those who do not use cannabis and why, proved that many people with Parkinson’s have looked to medical cannabis to provide some relief. 

It established that 25% used cannabis within the previous six months and 57% learned about cannabis use from the internet, friends or other people with Parkinson’s Disease. Among respondents, cannabis was used to treat motor and non-motor symptoms. When asked about associated symptom relief, most consumers reported that cannabis use led to a moderate or considerable improvement in the severity of anxiety, pain, sleep disorders, stiffness and tremor. 

The survey found out that most consumers reported their most common time of cannabis use is either in the evening or at bedtime. Interestingly, 23% of consumers stated they stopped cannabis use in the previous six months, primarily due to a lack of symptom improvement. Of note, 76% of respondents did not use cannabis, primarily because there was a lack of scientific evidence supporting any benefits.

Among all who responded, 82% were interested in learning more information about a clinical trial exploring the impact of cannabis on PD symptoms, and 62% were interested in enrolling in a clinical trial.

However, the Parkinson’s Foundation has the following guideline for using cannabis for Parkinson’s. They state that “in the absence of any clear data supporting the use of cannabinoid products in PD, the Parkinson’s Foundation does not endorse their use in PD”. However, they recognize that people may decide to try cannabinoid products for certain symptoms. If you decide to try cannabinoid products they suggest:

• Keep your healthcare providers informed of any use of cannabinoid products, because they may interact with other medications and may cause side effects that could influence your PD care.

• Treat cannabis products as you would any new medication. Always start at a low dose and go up slowly. CBD only products may also be less likely to cause side effects and could be considered before trying products also containing THC.

• For pain in one specific area, consider creams or patches to reduce general side effects. Be cautious when ingesting edible products, as they can have delayed side effects and increased toxicity.

• Consider working with a single dispensary. As these products are not regulated, do not assume the “dose” on a label obtained from one dispensary will have the same effects as one obtained from a different dispensary.

• Be aware of potential side effects, particularly dizziness, problems with balance, worsening motivation, dry mouth and impaired thinking and memory

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, more research is needed to prove if and how PD symptoms are relieved when using cannabis, and if so, what type of cannabis and what dosage are most effective and safe for the consumer.

Health experts say in Parkinson's disease, certain nerve cells (neurons) in the brain gradually break down or die. Many of the symptoms are due to a loss of neurons that produce a chemical messenger in the brain called dopamine. When dopamine levels decrease, it causes abnormal brain activity, leading to signs of Parkinson's disease.

Although the cause of PD is not known, genetic factors may contribute to the disease process. Scientists have discovered specific genetic mutations that can cause PD. Also, exposure to particular herbicides and pesticides may slightly increase the risk of developing PD later in life.