The cannabis plant is the source of many active chemicals, called cannabinoids. These chemicals stimulate specific receptors that respond to neurotransmitters in the brain and affect areas that control memory, thinking, concentration, movement, coordination, sensory and time perception, and pleasure.
There are several cannabis-derived medications available for treatment of a wide variety of neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). They are typically taken orally and work by stimulating cannabinoid receptors in the body and brain.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a common form of dementia that can affect anyone over the age of 65. It causes gradual memory lapses and can be difficult to live with. Fortunately, there are treatments that can slow the progression of the disease.
The condition is caused by abnormal deposits of proteins that clump together to form plaques and tangles around nerve cells in the brain. It is thought that these changes in the brain begin years before symptoms are noticed. These changes may also disrupt the brain’s chemical messengers, which allow neurons to communicate with each other.
These plaques and tangles can affect the way information flows in the brain, leading to a decline in the memory and thinking abilities of those with Alzheimer’s. In addition, the tangles can cause inflammation in the brain.
Researchers have found that the compounds found in cannabis, specifically THC and CBD, help remove these plaques and tangles and decrease inflammation in the brain. Additionally, cannabis helps improve the transmission of synapses between brain cells. This is important because it is believed that the inability to connect brain cells effectively can contribute to the cognitive decline that occurs with Alzheimer’s.
One of the main reasons for the development of Alzheimer’s is the abnormal build-up of proteins called amyloid and tau in and around nerve cells. These protein fragments clump together to form plaques and fibrillar tangles.
As the plaques and tangles form, the brain begins to shrink. This process also reduces the amount of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter involved in transmitting signals between brain cells.
This is why the use of a drug that boosts acetylcholine levels in the brain can be beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s. There are several drug treatments available, including donepezil (Namzaric), memantine, and a combination of both.
Although there are few current treatments for Alzheimer’s, the search for new therapies is ongoing. Studies have shown that the chemicals found in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, have neuroprotective properties, decrease neuroinflammation, and stimulate growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain that’s affected by Alzheimer’s. These findings have led to a renewed interest in the potential role of medical cannabis in treating this debilitating neurological disorder.
Parkinson’s Disease
The role of cannabis in treating neurodegenerative diseases is a subject that has gained considerable attention in recent years. It has been found to have beneficial effects on a range of symptoms, including anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder, caused by the loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain that controls movement. The loss of these cells causes tremors, stiffness and other physical symptoms that can affect the quality of life.
Many people with PD also experience non-motor symptoms, such as depression, apathy, hallucinations and sleep disorders. These can lead to problems with thinking, concentrating and making decisions.
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, a variety of medications can reduce some symptoms. These medicines stimulate the remaining dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra, or block some of the acetylcholine that is produced by them. These drugs are often given as a pill, orally or by injection.
Another treatment option for people with severe PD is deep brain stimulation surgery. This is an invasive surgical procedure that uses electrodes placed on the brain to send electrical impulses to the area of the brain that controls movement. The goal of this procedure is to decrease the amount of medicine a person needs.
Medications used to treat Parkinson’s can be difficult to take, and side effects may vary by person and by drug class. It is important to work closely with your doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan for you.
In addition to medication, some patients with Parkinson’s may benefit from exercise. This can help reduce the amount of tremors and other symptoms and improve muscle strength, balance and mobility.
Studies have found that the active ingredient in marijuana, called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may help ease some of the most common symptoms of Parkinson’s, including tremors and slow movement. THC activates the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and increases blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, which helps control our motor skills, memory, and decision-making abilities.
While a lack of clear research has been one of the major challenges to medical marijuana use for PD, it appears that many patients do find relief. In a survey conducted by the nonprofit Parkinson’s Foundation, more than 70 percent of respondents reported using cannabis for symptom relief, and most experienced small improvements.
Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is a genetic disorder that causes problems with nerve cells in the brain and nervous system. It causes the abnormal build-up of proteins called huntingtin. These proteins tangle around the nerve cells, blocking their ability to work properly and eventually killing them.
Researchers have discovered that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in the development of Huntington’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. These endocannabinoids are naturally produced by our body, and they interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
The ECS controls many vital functions of the human body, including sleep, pain, and appetite. In addition, it regulates mood and emotions. The endocannabinoid system is also involved in the immune system, so it is possible that cannabis could influence the immune system in ways that are beneficial to Huntington’s patients.
Research into the use of cannabis for Huntington’s disease is relatively new, and much is still unknown about how it works. But scientists and doctors are hopeful that the research will continue to grow and show some positive results for patients with this condition.
For example, several studies have shown that CBD may help ease the motor symptoms of this condition. It is believed that this can be because it has anti-spasmodic properties and may reduce inflammation.
Another potential benefit is that it may reduce irritability and uninhibited movement in patients. These are two of the most common symptoms in this disease and can lead to a decline in quality of life.
While researchers are still working to determine exactly how this can happen, they have some promising findings. In addition, it has been found that CBD can protect neurons in the brain, which can slow down the progression of Huntington’s disease.
There are several types of treatment for Huntington’s disease, and some are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. They include medication to ease movement disorders and cognitive disorders. These medications can range from Xenazine (tetrabenazine) for movement disorders to Risperdal (risperidone) or Haldol (haloperidol) for cognitive issues.
There are also drugs being tested that aim to slow down the process of nerve cell death in Huntington’s disease. These drugs are being evaluated in animal models and, if they are successful, they will move on to clinical trials. This can take anywhere from a few years to more than a decade.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that destroys the myelin that protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to symptoms like fatigue, numbness, and muscle weakness. It also can cause vision problems, balance problems, and unsteady walking.
People with MS have a slow-moving inflammatory process that damages myelin and axons in the central nervous system. This damage causes symptoms and can lead to permanent disability in a small percentage of patients.
Most people with MS have a disease called relapsing-remitting MS, which is the most common type of MS. It starts with periods of new symptoms, or relapses, that develop over days and weeks. Then there are periods of quiet disease activity, or remission, that can last months or even years.
During these periods of remission, some symptoms may disappear completely or improve. But, other symptoms might get worse and the disease might continue to progress. This is known as secondary-progressive MS and occurs in about 20% to 40% of people with relapsing-remitting type of MS.
There is no cure for MS, but doctors do know how to treat symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Medications, physical therapies, and nutrition all can help with many of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
A good diet can make you feel better, and regular exercise can enhance your strength, coordination, and balance. Eating right can also help reduce stress and keep you cool, which can help control symptoms.
It’s also important to avoid smoking, which can make symptoms of MS worse. Smoking tobacco can increase blood pressure and heart rate, as well as cause breathing problems.
Some people with MS may find that cannabis or hash oil relieves their symptoms and helps them sleep at night. The chemical found in cannabis or hash is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC.
Marijuana or hash can be smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes, pipes, or vaporisers. Vaporisers are devices that heat cannabis to a temperature that releases its active ingredients while minimising the toxins associated with burning marijuana.
There are several studies showing that cannabis can relieve some symptoms of multiple sclerosis. These include numbness, tremors, spasticity, bladder control, and mood. However, more research is needed to understand how to safely and effectively use marijuana in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
