The Challenge Of Regulating Cbd Products
Practically, CBD products can be obtained relatively easily at health food stores and online. They are not considered drugs , and therefore are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration . This can be very problematic because without FDA oversight:
- There is no assurance that what is stated on the package is what is being sold. For example, even if the bottle says it is pure CBD, the product may contain other chemicals from the cannabis plant, or a higher amount of THC than advertised
- The manufacturing process, which is also not regulated, may introduce contaminants
- There is no assurance that the dosage written on the bottle is correct
- Medication interactions between CBD products and other drugs are not clear to consumers
The FDA is aware of the health claims that are made by manufacturers about various products and issues warnings to companies who market CBD products with unsubstantiated health claims.
Lifestyle Modifications For Pd Patients
It is important to treat the patient as a whole mind, body and soul. The following are a few lifestyle modifications that may provide relief from PD symptoms and improve quality of life.
Nishi Whiteley, a Project CBD research associate and contributing writer, is the author of Chronic Relief: A Guide to Cannabis for the Terminally and Chronically Ill . Special thanks to Juan Sanchez-Ramos for reviewing this article, Ethan B. Russo, M.D. for providing a summary of Parkinsons research for inclusion in this article, and to Adrian Devitt-Lee for his research support.
Copyright, Project CBD. May not be reprinted without permission.
Introduction: Cbd As An Alternative To Pharmaceuticals
A healthy, natural alternative to traditional medications is becoming more and more accessible for persons suffering the effects of Parkinsons disease. Studies show that cannabidiol, also referred to as CBD or CBD-rich cannabis, may relieve tremors and other debilitating symptoms of Parkinsons. CBD is a natural compound found in cannabis sativa plants , with none of the adverse side effects of prescription medications and without the high effect from THC in marijuana. And while traditional medications may become less effective over time, or stop working completely, CBD users are hailing long-lasting benefits, with many giving up their pharmaceuticals for good.
CBD is also gaining momentum as a treatment for Alzheimers disease, epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. Studies are ongoing, but returns indicate CBD is an exciting alternative to traditional medications.
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How To Choose The Right Cbd For Parkinsons Disease
The use of CBD oil may be helpful in the treatment of Parkinsons disease. There are three types to choose from, namely, full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum, and isolates.
Full-spectrum CBD oil is the most recommended, as its use of all the ingredients of the cannabis plant is believed to produce an entourage effect.
The entourage effect is the synergy of the trace amounts of THC, flavonoids, fatty acids, and essential oils. These active ingredients work together to give maximum therapeutic benefits to users.
THC may cause a high on users. Drug tests can also detect it. Patients who want to avoid this risk may use broad-spectrum CBD oils. This type of oil contains all the ingredients of a full-spectrum oil except for THC.
PD patients who want to use pure isolated cannabidiol may avail of CBD isolates.
How Does Parkinsons Affect The Central Nervous System
When Parkinsons Disease affects a person, the nerve endings start to deteriorate. These nerve endings are responsible for the production of norepinephrine, a chemical that acts as a messenger for the sympathetic nervous system. This leads to the various symptoms of the Disease, and they also include inconsistent blood pressure.
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References Cited In This Article
Conflict Of Interest Statement
JH, and JC are co-inventors of the patent Fluorinated CBD compounds, compositions and uses thereof. Pub. No.: WO/2014/108899. International Application No.: PCT/IL2014/050023 Def. US no. Reg. 62193296 29/07/2015 INPI on 19/08/2015 . The University of São Paulo has licensed the patent to Phytecs Pharm . The University of São Paulo has an agreement with Prati-Donaduzzi to develop a pharmaceutical product containing synthetic cannabidiol and prove its safety and therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of epilepsy, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, and anxiety disorders. JH and JC have received travel support from and are medical advisors of BSPG-Pharm. The other authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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Cannabinoids For Pain In Parkinsons Disease
Pain is a constant companion for as many as 10 percent of people with Parkinsons disease. Unfortunately, most of them cant tolerate the sleepiness and confusion regular pain medications induce.
Thats why Dr. Susan Fox, a Toronto neurologist and professor at the University of Toronto, is investigating a different source of pain relief. Fox is conducting a pilot study, along with her colleague Dr. Tiago Mestre in Ottawa, to see whether 15 people with Parkinsons disease will benefit from oils made from cannabinoidsthe active compounds in marijuana.
Currently, people with Parkinsons may experience pain in their muscles and joints because of the stiffness and rigidity the illness causes. Some also report a sharp pain, often in their legs or feet, that is more puzzling because doctors cant determine its exact cause.
Some people call it central pain, says Fox. Its probably mediated by some brain mechanism reflective of Parkinsons. People express this as an unpleasant burning, stabbing pain, and its very difficult to treat.
Fox, who treats people with Parkinsons at Toronto Western Hospitals Movement Disorders Clinic, hopes her study will discover whether people with Parkinsons can tolerate oils, and experience less pain after using them. She also wants to identify the best strength and dosage for people to use.
Almost every day, one of her patients asks her about trying marijuana to relieve their tremors or rigidity.
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Best Cbd Oil For Parkinson’s Disease
The best CBD oil for managing Parkinsons disease will depend on the needs of the patient.
It is important to always buy high-quality CBD oil from a reputable brand. Heres what to look out for when choosing a CBD oil for Parkinsons disease:
1. Consider the source. Whenever possible, buy from a brand that sources their CBD from organically grown hemp. Not only are these growing practices more environmentally sustainable, but they also ensure that your CBD oil product is free from pesticides and herbicides.
2. Read the label. Always read the ingredients list on any product before you buy. Look for brands that contain as few ingredients as possible. Typically, all a CBD oil needs to contain are cannabidiol and a carrier oil like MCT oil, hemp seed, or coconut oil. Some full-spectrum products will contain terpenes, giving the oil a natural hemp flavor. If you wish to avoid the hemp flavor, consider a CBD oil that uses natural flavors like orange oil, cinnamon, or mint oils.
3. Look for transparency. Reputable brands will be transparent with their process. They will third-party lab test their extractions for both purity and potency. These lab test results will be posted in a Certificate of Analysis . These CoAs will give you a complete breakdown of everything that is or is not in your CBD oil. It also allows you to check that the amount of CBD listed on the label is accurate while ensuring there arent harmful heavy metals or pesticides in your product.
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Cbd May Support Dopamine Production
Parkinsons disease causes the dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain to die.
When theres a lack of dopamine, the nerve cells fire but struggle to transmit messages from brain to body. PD symptoms such as tremors, shaking, and stiffness occurs because of this factor.
As some studies suggest, CBD may improve dopamine production by interacting with GPR3, GPR6, and GPR12 receptors in the brain .
Although research into CBDs effects on dopamine levels is relatively young, the discoveries being made are certainly promising. If CBD does increase dopamine levels in Parkinsons patients, it could be the reason the cannabinoid can reduce tremors so quickly.
What Is Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting the part of the brain responsible for manufacturing dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with things such as mood, hormone balance, motor function, and focus or attention.
Symptoms of this condition usually appear gradually over the course of several years before and after diagnosis.
They begin with nonspecific issues like hyposmia , sleep disorders, constipation, and obesity up to 20 years before the more characteristic muscular issues such as rigidity, tremors, and falling.
As the disease progresses, non-motor symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, dementia, and depression can appear and worsen over the next 20 years.
Parkinsons disease by itself isnt considered fatal however, some of the complications brought on by the disease are and can also certainly be life-altering and devastating for patients and families.
A common finding in PD patients is an abundance of Lewy bodies clusters of proteins inside the neurons that dont break down as they should through normal enzyme reactions in the brain.
As these Lewy bodies become more abundant and build up, they kill the neurons. This type of neuron injury is also characteristic of other neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimers disease . The main differences are in the composition and location of the proteins.
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Mitochondria Microbiota And Marijuana
The microbiome also plays an important role in the health of our mitochondria, which are present in every cell in the brain and body . Mitochondria function not only as the cells power plant they also are involved in regulating cell repair and cell death. Dysfunction of the mitochondria, resulting in high levels of oxidative stress, is intrinsic to PD neurodegeneration. Microbes produce inflammatory chemicals in the gut that seep into the bloodstream and damage mitochondria, contributing to disease pathogenesis not only in PD but many neurological and metabolic disorders, including obesity, type-2 diabetes, and Alzheimers.
The evidence that gut dysbiosis can foster the development of PD raises the possibility that those with the disease could benefit by manipulating their intestinal bacteria and improving their microbiome. Enhancing ones diet with fermented foods and probiotic supplements may improve gut health and relieve constipation, while also reducing anxiety, depression and memory problems that afflict PD patients.
Cannabis therapeutics may also help to manage PD symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Acclaimed neurologist Sir William Gowers was the first to mention cannabis as a treatment for tremors in 1888. In his Manual of Diseases of the Nervous System, Grower noted that oral consumption of an Indian hemp extract quieted tremors temporarily, and after a year of chronic use the patients tremors nearly ceased.
Risks Does Cbd Have Any Side Effects
CBD is famous for having few side effects. Human studies and anecdotal reports have used dosages between 20 mg all the way up to 1.3 grams, without significant side effects. It is not yet known if it is possible to overdose on CBD . One of the more frequently reported side effects is sleepiness and lethargy from the anti-anxiety effect.
A more serious side effect is not the side effect of CBD but of medications, you take alongside CBD. CBD can inhibit liver metabolism leading to increased or decreased levels of many of the other drugs or supplements you are taking. Therefore, it is crucial that you ask your doctor about any drug interactions you might encounter with CBD. You should also research it yourself by using a pubmed.gov search. You cant leave everything up to your doctor. In the end, no one can take on the consequences of what you put in your body but you.
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What Vitamins Can Help With Hand Shaking
Vitamin B12 is vital for maintaining the health of the nervous system. Insufficient B12, B-6 or B-1 can cause the formation of hand shaking. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12 for adults is 6 mg, however, you might require more if you are taking medications that interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.
Does Cbd Help Parkinsons
CBD hasnt been used in Parkinsons Disease patients long term, and there are few studies to rely on for treatment guidance. Recently, a Phase II clinical trial was completed on CBDs role in the treatment of Parkinsons Disease. Treatment outcomes were positive for sleep, depression, behavior and emotion, anxiety, and cognition. Improvements in psychotic features were seen as well. About 20-40% of PD patients experience psychotic symptoms. And, treatment with antipsychotics may bring out Parkinson-like symptoms. Taking CBD may relieve pain associated with PD, although research favors THC for this effect.
CBD oil for Parkinsons symptom treatment can be in the form of edibles, oils, tinctures, ointments, vape cartridges, and creams. Topical CBD can be used for the muscle spasms so common in patients with PD, and oils can be used to relieve symptoms faster. However, data is lacking regarding this mode of delivery. Tinctures also offer speedy effects as a way to take CBD. The only FDA approved way of taking CBD, however, is through the drug Epidiolex although its benefits have been shown from other CBD oils.
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Comparing Cbd With Levodopa For Parkinsons
Levodopa is an established treatment for Parkinsons disease. Although its not perfect, its currently the most effective treatment for PD. It helps boost the level of dopamine in the brain.
Levodopa is effective at targeting the motor symptoms of the condition, such as tremors or muscle stiffness.
However, this medicine does little to combat the nonmotor symptoms of Parkinsons disease. These are the problems that can significantly affect a persons daily life. They include anxiety, sleep disturbance, fatigue, irritation, and depression.
Furthermore, prolonged use of levodopa may result in side effects like elevated anxiety, agitation, confusion, and nausea. It may also trigger tremors that result from the medication itself, not PD.
CBD appears to help with those nonmotor symptoms and potential side effects, rather than physical problems. A study with more than 200 participants found that regular use of cannabis was highly effective on non-motor symptoms of Parkinsons Disease. However, this study included a combination of THC with CBD, not CBD oil alone.
The 5 Positive Effects Of Cbd On Parkinson’s Disease
The effect of CBD on anxiety and depression, regardless of the pathology of the patient, is no longer to be proven. CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system of the human body by providing cannabinoid receptors and offering therapeutic inhibitory and relaxing benefits.
In the context of Parkinson’s disease, there is a non-exhaustive list of 5 effects to discover below, which improve the quality of life of Parkinson’s patients.
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Recommended Cbd Dosage For Parkinsons Disease
Everyones body reacts differently to CBD. This makes recommending exact doses of CBD for medical issues difficult.
The best way to use CBD for Parkinsons is to start with a low dose and increase the potency of the dose gradually.
Start with a low dose of two to five milligrams every two to seven hours depending on the CBD product consumed .
If after two days there are no noticeable effects increase the dose by one to two milligrams.
Continue this process until you find the optimum dose.
What Is Cannabidiol
To explain CBD, we need to go back to the basics and address a common misconception about cannabis. Cannabis is a type of plant that has hundreds of different strains . In the common mind, cannabis is associated with a plant that produces a psychoactive effect on the human body, like a drug. Except that this association has remained in people’s minds without really taking into account all the other strains of cannabis that do not produce drugs
Indeed, what drugs is the active principle THC, but some cannabis plants do not even have any! Indeed, each strain of the cannabis plant has a different degree of THC and CBD. CBD is also an active ingredient in the plant. This one does not produce any psychoactive effect. It relaxes and provides many therapeutic properties that may be beneficial for certain diseases or symptoms
Many diseases currently benefit from these therapeutic advantages, such as fibromyalgia, epilepsy, endometriosis, nausea and even cancer to some degree.
Today, this type of product is called diet cannabis, or light weed. CBD can also be extracted and isolated in products such as CBD isolate
CBD is a legal product in France and sold in CBD e-shops as 321 CBD.
Now that we know what CBD is in detail, let’s see how it works on Parkinson’s patients.
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