Marijuana (Cannabis sativa) has active compounds that are being tested in various health conditions. Cannabidiol is one such compound and scientists believe it may help treat Parkinson’s disease.
As the American health news website News Medical shows, Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. The anomaly affects the level of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that, in addition to serving as a reward center, also serves important body functions such as memory, movement, motivation, mood and attention.
+ Study identifies substance that may stop Parkinson’s advance
In Parkinson’s, involuntary movements and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are associated with dopamine levels. Deficiency of this neurotransmitter is associated with tremors, bradykinesia (slow movements), limb stiffness, balance problems and postural instability.
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of over 100 chemical compounds found in marijuana, the most important being alongside THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol). These cannabinoids act on receptors in the body and brain, affecting how people feel, move and react, explains News Medical.
In a review (not cause and effect) study published May 5 in the Journal for Nurse Practitioners, scientists focused on various aspects of the use of cannabidiol in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Use of CBD against Parkinson’s
Typically, products containing cannabidiol contain less than 0.3% THC, to avoid the risk of abuse or addiction. They are recommended for neurological disorders, pain, insomnia, anxiety, headaches and depression in the US. In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) allows importation to authorized patients whose health conditions require this type of treatment (because there is no other option).
Preclinical studies have already shown that CBD has antipsychotic, anticompulsive, panicolytic (panic control), antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. A clinical trial revealed that administration of 300 mg of cannabidiol per day improved mobility, communication, emotional state, bodily discomfort, and communication in Parkinson’s patients compared to placebo treatment, reports News Medical.
Another research, done with guinea pigs, reported that CBD exhibited neuroprotective properties in patients with the neurodegenerative disease, reducing nigrostriatal degeneration (habit memory area of the brain) and inflammation responses in neurons. This treatment also improved the rats’ motor performance. In addition, cannabidiol slowed the drop in dopamine levels, provided anti-inflammatory activity and delayed oxidative stress in the animals.
Despite the good results, the researchers warn that the use of CBD in immunosuppressed patients can increase the risk of weight loss, infection and anemia. The substance may also interact with other medications.
News Medical points out that a major advantage of using cannabidiol, compared to regular Parkinson’s medication, is the possibility of prolonged use, without restriction. However, there are several side effects associated with CBD, including dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. When taking the marijuana compound, it is important to limit or avoid alcohol.
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