Parkinson's: How is CBD a Better Treatment Option Compared to Others?

Living with a chronic illness like Parkinson's can be difficult. Different ways of treating the disease are available but with limitations. CBD has been studied for the condition and initial results are promising. This article explores the potential benefits of CBD for the Parkinson’s compared to available treatment.

Parkinson’s disease is a common condition that mostly affects elderly people; it limits their movement and coordination. This can lead to a reduced quality of life and frustrations to the patients. Medication, therapy, and support groups help people deal with the symptoms. CBD has been recently studied to help treat the illness. The cannabis derivative has vital chemical compounds effective for managing the symptoms of the disease. Herein, we explore the symptoms of the Parkinson’s condition and how CBD can provide a safer alternative compared to existing pharmacological drugs and therapies.

Parkinson Disease

Parkinson's is a neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable movement like stiffness and shaking, creating difficulties with balance and coordination. There is no specific test to diagnose the disease, but neurologists review the signs and symptoms based on one's medical history. A physical and brain examination is also done for diagnosis. Rieder (2020) explained that most symptoms occur when nerve cells in the part of the brain that controls movement, known as the basal ganglia, become impaired or die. These nerve cells are responsible for producing the chemical dopamine. The main symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are tremors in the limbs, head or jaw, muscle stiffness, slow movements, and impairment in balance and coordination. Other symptoms include skin problems, urinary, and constipation, depression, and difficulty in speech, chewing, and speaking.

Treating Parkinson

There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease. Radhakrishnan&Goyal (2018) explained that medicines, surgical procedures, and therapy are used to treat the symptoms.

Medicine

The medicines aim to increase dopamine levels in the brain, helping control non-motor symptoms and affect neurotransmitters. The common medicine doctors use to treat these symptoms is levodopa. This can be accompanied by other medicines to treat different symptoms of the disease, such as tremors and enzyme inhibitors that slow down the breakdown of dopamine produced in the brain.

Surgical procedure

A surgical procedure can also be done to improve brain stimulation. Electrodes are implanted into a part of the brain during the procedure. This is done to stimulate the part of the brain that affects movement to improve the patient's mobility.

Therapy

Massage, speech, and physical therapy also help with voice disorders and reduce tension. One is also advised to have a healthy diet and exercise to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles. Yoga is also used as a way to improve mindfulness and flexibility. 

Rieder (2020) pointed out that these medicines and surgery are deemed effective in offsetting the disease but are often accompanied by side effects; prolonged use of such drugs can lead to reduced drug efficacy. Also, dopaminergic therapy does not treat non-motor symptoms, prompting the use of different medications. There have been studies on cannabidiol, CBD, as an option to treat Parkinson's.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the cannabinoids present in cannabis sativa. It is the second most abundant compound after tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the most psychoactive cannabinoid. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and has been studied to have many medical and health benefits. Lowe et al. (2021) explained that the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) is made up of receptors and neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining homeostasis or body balance. It also contains cannabinoids similar to the ones in cannabis plants, referred to as CB1 and CB2. CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system and influences its action in different aspects. It has been used to treat pain and inflammation, stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

Using CBD as a Treatment

The following are ways in which CBD is a better treatment for Parkinson's:

Neuromodulator and Neuroprotective

Patricio et al. (2020) expounded that CB1 and CB2 receptors are highly involved in neurological functions in the brain, including the basal ganglia. CBD interacts with these receptors and other enzymes in the brain to enhance its productivity. Similarly, the cannabis derivative helps increase the concentration of endocannabinoids in the brain, activating the CB1 receptor.

Anti-Inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Patricio et al. (2020) explained that oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain are associated with Parkinson's. CBD's activating CB1 and CB2 receptors may decrease the inflammation associated with Parkinson's. The compound has shown positive results in dealing with different neurological diseases. Apart from acting on the ECS, CBD acts on dopamine, serotonin, opioid, and adenosine receptors.

Anti-dyskinetic

Rieder (2020) explained that abnormal body movement referred to as dyskinesia can be a long-term effect of using treatments like levodopa. Dyskinesia is characterized by rapid and irregular movements that reduce the quality of life. The cannabis derivative has anti-dyskinetic properties that can help reduce Parkinson's symptoms and side effects caused by other medication.

Non-motor symptoms

Other non-movement symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease like anxiety, sleep disorder, and stomach complications can add to the hardships related to the condition. Rieder (2020) pointed out that CBD has positively impacted pain, sleep, and anxiety. The hemp-based drug brings calmness and relaxation without intoxication. This can help improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease.

CBD Dosage

There is no universal dose for CBD. One can consult their medical professional on the dose if under other medications. Beginners should start with low doses and gradually increase until they get the desired effects.

CBD Is Available in the Following Forms

Oils and Tinctures

The cannabis extract can be administered as an alcohol-based liquid (tincture) under the tongue or added as oil to food and drinks.

Capsules and Pills

CBD is also available in pills and capsules for treating tremors; the capsules are suitable for users who dislike dosing the earthy CBD oil.

Edibles

CBD gummies are a popular way people take CBD. These are available in different colors and flavors with specific dosage of CBD.

Creams and Balms

This form of CBD is effective for topical application, especially when dealing with pain, inflammation, and stiffness of the joints and limbs. It is also effective for headaches.

CBD Side Effects

Being a naturally extracted compound, CBD is mostly tolerated by the body. Its side effects are rare and usually mild. These include a change in appetite, nausea, and tiredness. One is advised to consult with a medical professional if they want to start using CBD while on other forms of medicine.

Conclusion

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder affecting many aged people. It affects the general quality of life, especially with movement and coordination. Though there is no cure, different treatments are used to deal with the symptoms. CBD has been in the limelight for dealing with non-motor symptoms and dyskinetic effects. It has proven to have positive effects in treating Parkinson's symptoms. One should seek medical advice before adding CBD in their treatment routines.

References

Lowe, H., Toyang, N., Steele, B., Bryant, J., &Ngwa, W. (2021). The endocannabinoid       system: A potential target for the treatment of various diseases. International   Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(17), 9472.

Patricio, F., Morales-Andrade, A. A., Patricio-Martínez, A., & Limón, I. D. (2020). Cannabidiol as a therapeutic target: evidence of its neuroprotective and            neuromodulatory function in Parkinson's disease. Frontiers in Pharmacology,            11, 595635.

Radhakrishnan, D. M., &Goyal, V. (2018). Parkinson's disease: A review. Neurology        India, 66(7), 26.

Rieder, C. R. (2020). Cannabidiol in Parkinson's disease. Brazilian Journal of          Psychiatry, 42, 126-127.