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Humayun M, Suarez JI, Shah VA. Neurological Complications of Cannabinoids. Semin Neurol 2024; 44:430-440. [PMID: 38914126 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Cannabinoid use, particularly for recreational purposes, is increasing exponentially across all age groups, especially in younger populations, due to its perceived low risk and legalization. While cannabinoids may be largely considered as safe, there is mounting evidence of increased risk of systemic and neurological complications through their interaction with the poorly understood endocannabinoid receptor network within the central nervous system and other organ systems. Acute cannabinoid exposure can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms in addition to altering cerebral blood flow, leading to cerebrovascular complications such as ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Chronic use, particularly among adolescents, may be associated with increased risk of long-term cognitive deficits, schizophrenia, and other neuropsychiatric effects. Synthetic cannabinoids have increased potency, with reports of causing profound neurological complications including coma, seizures, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, and RCVS. Despite increasing evidence, the quality of literature describing neurologic complications with cannabinoids remains limited to case series and retrospective cohort studies, with significant confounding factors such as concomitant use of other illicit drugs, limiting interpretation. In this review, we summarize the effect of cannabinoids on the neurologic system and associated neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariyam Humayun
- Department of Neurology, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jose I Suarez
- Departments of Neurology, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Vishank A Shah
- Departments of Neurology, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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2
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Diadhiou S, Maas BR, Schootemeijer S, Bloem BR, de Vries NM, Calon F, Darweesh SKL, de Rus Jacquet. Natural Health Products for Symptomatic Relief of Parkinson's Disease: Prevalence, Interest, and Awareness. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2024:JPD240102. [PMID: 38943398 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-240102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Background Natural health products have emerged as a potential symptomatic therapeutic approach for people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Objective To determine the prevalence of natural health product use, interest in natural health products, awareness of potential herb-drug interactions, and consultation of healthcare professionals regarding natural health products use among people with PD. Methods Cross-sectional 4-item survey embedded in the PRIME-NL study, which is a population-based cohort of PD. Results Of 367 people with PD, 36% reported having used natural health products to alleviate PD-related symptoms, with coffee, cannabis and turmeric being the most popular. Furthermore, 71% of people with PD were interested in learning more about natural health products. 39% of natural health products users were aware that these products could interact with PD medication and 39% had discussed their use with their healthcare professional. Conclusions Natural health products are commonly used to alleviate symptoms by people with PD, but most users are unaware that these products can interact with PD medication and do not discuss their consumption with their healthcare professional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Diadhiou
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Canada
- Axe neurosciences, centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval, Canada
| | - Bart R Maas
- Radboud University Medical Center; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior; Department of Neurology; Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine Schootemeijer
- Radboud University Medical Center; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior; Department of Neurology; Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- Radboud University Medical Center; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior; Department of Neurology; Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke M de Vries
- Radboud University Medical Center; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior; Department of Neurology; Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frédéric Calon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Canada
- Axe neurosciences, centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval, Canada
| | - Sirwan K L Darweesh
- Radboud University Medical Center; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior; Department of Neurology; Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - de Rus Jacquet
- Axe neurosciences, centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Canada
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Liu Y, Bainbridge J, Sillau S, Rajkovic S, Adkins M, Domen CH, Thompson JA, Seawalt T, Klawitter J, Sempio C, Chin G, Forman L, Fullard M, Hawkins T, Seeberger L, Newman H, Vu D, Leehey MA. Short-Term Cannabidiol with Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Trial. Mov Disord 2024; 39:863-875. [PMID: 38487964 PMCID: PMC11102313 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use is frequent in Parkinson's disease (PD), despite inadequate evidence of benefits and risks. OBJECTIVE The aim is to study short-term efficacy and tolerability of relatively high cannabidiol (CBD)/low Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to provide preliminary data for a longer trial. METHODS Persons with PD with ≥20 on motor Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) who had negative cannabis testing took cannabis extract (National Institute of Drug Abuse) oral sesame oil solution for 2 weeks, increasing to final dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day. Primary outcome was change in motor MDS-UPDRS from baseline to final dose. RESULTS Participants were randomized to CBD/THC (n = 31) or placebo (n = 30). Mean final dose (CBD/THC group) was 191.8 ± 48.9 mg CBD and 6.4 ± 1.6 mg THC daily. Motor MDS-UPDRS was reduced by 4.57 (95% CI, -8.11 to -1.03; P = 0.013) in CBD/THC group, and 2.77 (-4.92 to -0.61; P = 0.014) in placebo; the difference between groups was non-significant: -1.80 (-5.88 to 2.27; P = 0.379). Several assessments had a strong placebo response. Sleep, cognition, and activities of daily living showed a treatment effect, favoring placebo. Overall adverse events were mild and reported more in CBD/THC than placebo group. On 2.5 mg/kg/day CBD plasma level was 54.0 ± 33.8 ng/mL; THC 1.06 ± 0.91 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS The brief duration and strong placebo response limits interpretation of effects, but there was no benefit, perhaps worsened cognition and sleep, and there was many mild adverse events. Longer duration high quality trials that monitor cannabinoid concentrations are essential and would require improved availability of research cannabinoid products in the United States. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Bainbridge
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Stefan Sillau
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarah Rajkovic
- Neurosciences, University of Colorado Hospital, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Michelle Adkins
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Christopher H Domen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - John A Thompson
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Tristan Seawalt
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Grace Chin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Lisa Forman
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Michelle Fullard
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Trevor Hawkins
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Lauren Seeberger
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Heike Newman
- Department of Regulatory Compliance, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - David Vu
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Maureen Anne Leehey
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Menéndez-Pérez C, Rivas-Santisteban R, del Valle E, Tolivia J, Navarro A, Franco R, Martínez-Pinilla E. Heteromers Formed by GPR55 and Either Cannabinoid CB 1 or CB 2 Receptors Are Upregulated in the Prefrontal Cortex of Multiple Sclerosis Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4176. [PMID: 38673761 PMCID: PMC11050292 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system for which there is no cure, making it necessary to search for new treatments. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a very important neuromodulatory role in the CNS. In recent years, the formation of heteromers containing cannabinoid receptors and their up/downregulation in some neurodegenerative diseases have been demonstrated. Despite the beneficial effects shown by some phytocannabinoids in MS, the role of the ECS in its pathophysiology is unknown. The main objective of this work was to identify heteromers of cell surface proteins receptive to cannabinoids, namely GPR55, CB1 and CB2 receptors, in brain samples from control subjects and MS patients, as well as determining their cellular localization, using In Situ Proximity Ligation Assays and immunohistochemical techniques. For the first time, CB1R-GPR55 and CB2R-GPR55 heteromers are identified in the prefrontal cortex of the human brain, more in the grey than in the white matter. Remarkably, the number of CB1R-GPR55 and CB2R-GPR55 complexes was found to be increased in MS patient samples. The results obtained open a promising avenue of research on the use of these receptor complexes as potential therapeutic targets for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlota Menéndez-Pérez
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.M.-P.); (E.d.V.); (J.T.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Rafael Rivas-Santisteban
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (R.R.-S.); (R.F.)
- CiberNed, Network Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, National Spanish Health Institute Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Computational Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Campus Bellaterra, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Eva del Valle
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.M.-P.); (E.d.V.); (J.T.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge Tolivia
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.M.-P.); (E.d.V.); (J.T.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ana Navarro
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.M.-P.); (E.d.V.); (J.T.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Rafael Franco
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (R.R.-S.); (R.F.)
- CiberNed, Network Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, National Spanish Health Institute Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Pinilla
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.M.-P.); (E.d.V.); (J.T.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
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Murta JCD, Easpaig BNG, Hazell-Raine K, Byrne MK, Lertwatthanawilat W, Kritkitrat P, Bressington D. Recreational cannabis policy reform-What mental health nurses need to know about minimising harm and contributing to the reform debate. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2024; 31:270-282. [PMID: 37767750 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The recently rapidly evolving legal status of recreational cannabis in various countries has triggered international debate, particularly around measures required to minimise resulting harms. The present article argues that mental health nurses should have a key role in promoting safe and appropriate use of recreational cannabis, and minimising harm based on the extant evidence. The article summarises the factors driving legalisation, outlines the evident medicinal benefits of cannabis, and appraises the evidence on the negative mental health impacts associated with use. We go on to discuss research findings on the potentially deleterious mental health effects resulting from legalising recreational cannabis and strategies to minimise these harms, including directions for future research and evaluation. Further, we consider the importance of the implementation of harm minimisation measures that are context-specific, using Thailand as an example. Finally, we present the key health promotion messages that mental health nurses should aim to convey to people who use or consider using recreational cannabis. Ultimately, we aim to provide a summary of the existing evidence that mental health nurses can draw upon to promote mental health and engage with the policy reform debate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karen Hazell-Raine
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mitchell K Byrne
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | | | | | - Daniel Bressington
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Hidding U, Mainka T, Buhmann C. Therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurological diseases: a clinical update. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:117-126. [PMID: 38015317 PMCID: PMC10791790 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of medical Cannabis has increased in recent years due to changing legal circumstances in many countries. Approval exists only for a few neurological conditions such as rare forms of epilepsy or spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Beyond that, however, medical Cannabis is used for a wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms. In Germany, in parallel with new legislation that has simplified the prescription of medical Cannabis, an accompanying survey has been implemented for which initial data are now available. In this context, our review provides an overview of the evidence for the therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurology, the potential benefits, and side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute Hidding
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tina Mainka
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology at the Charité, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Clinician Scientist Program, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Buhmann
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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Dos Santos JCC, Rebouças CDSM, Oliveira LF, Cardoso FDS, Nascimento TDS, Oliveira AV, Lima MPP, de Andrade GM, de Castro Brito GA, de Barros Viana GS. The role of gut-brain axis in a rotenone-induced rat model of Parkinson's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 132:185-197. [PMID: 37837734 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widespread neurodegenerative condition affecting millions globally. This investigation centered on the gut-brain axis in a rotenone-induced PD rat model. Researchers monitored behavioral shifts, histological modifications, neurodegeneration, and inflammation markers throughout the rats' bodies. Results revealed that rotenone-treated rats displayed reduced exploration (p = 0.004) and motor coordination (p < 0.001), accompanied by decreased Nissl staining and increased alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity in the striatum (p = 0.009). Additionally, these rats exhibited weight loss (T3, mean = 291.9 ± 23.67; T19, mean = 317.5 ± 17.53; p < 0.05) and substantial intestinal histological alterations, such as shortened villi, crypt architecture loss, and inflammation. In various regions, researchers noted elevated immunoreactivity to ionized binding adapter molecule (IBA)-1 (p < 0.05) and reduced immunoreactivity to glial fibrillary acidic protein (p < 0.05) and S100B (p < 0.001), indicating altered glial cell activity. Overall, these findings imply that PD is influenced by gut-brain axis changes and may originate in the intestine, impacting bidirectional gut-brain communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlio César Claudino Dos Santos
- Medical School of the Christus University Center-UNICHRISTUS, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Graduate Program in Morphofunctional Sciences, Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
| | - Conceição da Silva Martins Rebouças
- Graduate Program in Morphofunctional Sciences, Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Morphology Department of the Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Fabrizio Dos Santos Cardoso
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Hospital do Câncer de Muriaé, Fundação Cristiano Varella (FCV), Muriaé, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Alfaete Vieira Oliveira
- Physiology and Pharmacology Department of the Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Geanne Matos de Andrade
- Physiology and Pharmacology Department of the Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Gerly Anne de Castro Brito
- Morphology Department of the Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Physiology and Pharmacology Department of the Federal University of Ceará-UFC, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
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Sousa A, DiFrancisco-Donoghue J. Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol Use in Parkinson's Disease: An Observational Pilot Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e42391. [PMID: 37621812 PMCID: PMC10446505 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for more research examining the use of cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol (CBD) products in people with Parkinson's disease (PD), especially given the recent increase in the use of these products. OBJECTIVES Given the recent increase in over-the-counter CBD use as well as the prescription of medical cannabis by treating physicians, the utilization method, effects on motor and non-motor symptoms, side effects, and attitude toward cannabis use were examined in a naturalistic sample of patients with PD. METHODS A total of 15 individuals with PD, eight of whom were prescribed CBD/THC treatment and seven who were not taking any CBD/THC product, were assessed cross-sectionally. Participants completed structured neuropsychological testing, motor assessment, and questionnaires regarding mood, subjective cognition, and symptom levels. T-tests were completed for quantitative measures and descriptive data were examined and described. Due to the small sample size, Shapiro-Wilk tests for normality were utilized and Mann-Whitney U analyses were completed when appropriate. RESULTS We found a wide range of prescribed products and methods as well as variability in perceived benefits and untoward effects, even in our small sample. Individuals with PD who were taking a CBD/THC product had lower global cognition scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) but no detectable differences among more specific neuropsychological measures. They also had more non-motor symptoms of PD but no differences in motor symptom levels. Qualitatively, some participants with PD who were taking CBD/THC reported improved pain levels, sleep, and reductions in anxiety. A few negative effects were endorsed, including sleepiness, concentration difficulties, and forgetfulness. CONCLUSION CBD/THC utilization in PD is varied. In our small sample, individuals who utilized the treatment had lower MoCA scores, more non-motor symptoms, and descriptively reported improvements in sleep, anxiety, and pain, and had side effects of sleepiness and cognitive difficulty. Future studies should focus on clinical trials with standardized CBD/THC methods of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Sousa
- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, USA
| | - Joanne DiFrancisco-Donoghue
- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, USA
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9
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Pirker W, Katzenschlager R, Hallett M, Poewe W. Pharmacological Treatment of Tremor in Parkinson's Disease Revisited. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2023; 13:127-144. [PMID: 36847017 PMCID: PMC10041452 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-225060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) tremor remains incompletely understood and there is a lack of clinical trials specifically addressing its pharmacological treatment. Levodopa is the most efficacious drug for most patients and should be used as primary approach to control troublesome tremor. While the efficacy of oral dopamine agonists on PD tremor has been demonstrated in controlled trials, there is no evidence of greater antitremor efficacy compared to levodopa. The magnitude of the antitremor effect of anticholinergics is generally lower than that of levodopa. Due to their adverse effects, anticholinergics have a limited role in selected young and cognitively intact patients. Propranolol may improve resting and action tremor and may be considered as an adjunct in patients with insufficient tremor response to levodopa and this also applies to clozapine, despite its unfavorable adverse effect profile. Treating motor fluctuations with MAO-B and COMT inhibitors, dopamine agonists, amantadine, or on-demand treatments such as subcutaneous or sublingual apomorphine and inhaled levodopa as well as with continuous infusions of levodopa or apomorphine will improve off period tremor episodes. For patients with drug-refractory PD tremor despite levodopa optimization deep brain stimulation and focused ultrasound are first-line considerations. Surgery can also be highly effective for the treatment medication-refractory tremor in selected patients without motor fluctuations. The present review highlights the clinical essentials of parkinsonian tremor, critically examines available trial data on the effects of medication and surgical approaches and provides guidance for the choice of treatments to control PD tremor in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Pirker
- Department of Neurology, Klinik Ottakring, Vienna, Austria
| | - Regina Katzenschlager
- Department of Neurology and Karl Landsteiner Institute for Neuroimmunological and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Klinik Donaustadt, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Werner Poewe
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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10
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Urbi B, Lee Y, Hughes I, Thorning S, Broadley SA, Sabet A, Heshmat S. Effects of cannabinoids in Parkinson's disease animal models: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 6:e100302. [PMID: 36618606 PMCID: PMC9812814 DOI: 10.1136/bmjos-2022-100302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Cannabis has been proposed as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD) due to its neuroprotective benefits. However, there has been no rigorous review of preclinical studies to evaluate any potential treatment effect. This systematic review was undertaken to provide evidence in support or against a treatment effect of cannabinoids in animal models of PD. Methods Databases were searched for any controlled comparative studies that assessed the effects of any cannabinoid, cannabinoid-based treatment or endocannabinoid transport blocker on behavioural symptoms in PD animal models. Results A total of 41 studies were identified to have met the criteria for this review. 14 of these studies were included in meta-analyses of rotarod, pole and open field tests. Meta-analysis of rotarod tests showed a weighted mean difference of 31.63 s for cannabinoid-treated group compared with control. Meta-analysis of pole tests also showed a positive treatment effect, evidenced by a weighted mean difference of -1.51 s for cannabinoid treat group compared with control. However, meta-analysis of open field test demonstrated a standardised mean difference of only 0.36 indicating no benefit. Conclusion This review demonstrates cannabinoid treatment effects in alleviating motor symptoms of PD animal models and supports the conduct of clinical trials of cannabis in PD population. However, there is no guarantee of successful clinical translation of this outcome because of the many variables that might have affected the results, such as the prevalent unclear and high risk of bias, the different study methods, PD animal models and cannabinoids used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berzenn Urbi
- Office for Research Governance and Development, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia,Medicine, Griffith University Faculty of Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yunjoo Lee
- Medicine, Griffith University Faculty of Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ian Hughes
- Office for Research Governance and Development, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Thorning
- Office for Research Governance and Development, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Simon A Broadley
- Medicine, Griffith University Faculty of Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia,Department of Neurology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Arman Sabet
- Medicine, Griffith University Faculty of Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia,Department of Neurology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Saman Heshmat
- Department of Neurology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
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Costa AC, Joaquim HPG, Pedrazzi JFC, Pain ADO, Duque G, Aprahamian I. Cannabinoids in Late Life Parkinson's Disease and Dementia: Biological Pathways and Clinical Challenges. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121596. [PMID: 36552056 PMCID: PMC9775654 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of cannabinoids as therapeutic drugs has increased among aging populations recently. Age-related changes in the endogenous cannabinoid system could influence the effects of therapies that target the cannabinoid system. At the preclinical level, cannabidiol (CBD) induces anti-amyloidogenic, antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer. Emerging evidence suggests that CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol have neuroprotective therapeutic-like effects on dementias. In clinical practice, cannabinoids are being used off-label to relieve symptoms of PD and AD. In fact, patients are using cannabis compounds for the treatment of tremor, non-motor symptoms, anxiety, and sleep assistance in PD, and managing responsive behaviors of dementia such as agitation. However, strong evidence from clinical trials is scarce for most indications. Some clinicians consider cannabinoids an alternative for older adults bearing Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's dementia with a poor response to first-line treatments. In our concept and experience, cannabinoids should never be considered a first-line treatment but could be regarded as an adjuvant therapy in specific situations commonly seen in clinical practice. To mitigate the risk of adverse events, the traditional dogma of geriatric medicine, starting with a low dose and proceeding with a slow titration regime, should also be employed with cannabinoids. In this review, we aimed to address preclinical evidence of cannabinoids in neurodegenerative disorders such as PD and AD and discuss potential off-label use of cannabinoids in clinical practice of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana C. Costa
- Laboratory of Neuroscience (LIM-27), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBioN), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, São Paulo 05403-010, Brazil
| | - Helena P. G. Joaquim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - João F. C. Pedrazzi
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil
| | - Andreia de O. Pain
- Group of Investigation on Multimorbidity and Mental Health in Aging (GIMMA), Geriatrics Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Jundiaí Medical School, Jundiaí 13202-550, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Duque
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Ivan Aprahamian
- Group of Investigation on Multimorbidity and Mental Health in Aging (GIMMA), Geriatrics Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Jundiaí Medical School, Jundiaí 13202-550, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9712 Groningen, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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12
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Morash MG, Nixon J, Shimoda LMN, Turner H, Stokes AJ, Small-Howard AL, Ellis LD. Identification of minimum essential therapeutic mixtures from cannabis plant extracts by screening in cell and animal models of Parkinson’s disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:907579. [PMID: 36278152 PMCID: PMC9586206 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.907579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Medicinal cannabis has shown promise for the symptomatic treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD), but patient exposure to whole plant mixtures may be undesirable due to concerns around safety, consistency, regulatory issues, and psychoactivity. Identification of a subset of components responsible for the potential therapeutic effects within cannabis represents a direct path forward for the generation of anti-PD drugs. Using an in silico database, literature reviews, and cell based assays, GB Sciences previously identified and patented a subset of five cannabinoids and five terpenes that could potentially recapitulate the anti-PD attributes of cannabis. While this work represents a critical step towards harnessing the anti-PD capabilities of cannabis, polypharmaceutical drugs of this complexity may not be feasible as therapeutics. In this paper, we utilize a reductionist approach to identify minimal essential mixtures (MEMs) of these components that are amenable to pharmacological formulation. In the first phase, cell-based models revealed that the cannabinoids had the most significant positive effects on neuroprotection and dopamine secretion. We then evaluated the ability of combinations of these cannabinoids to ameliorate a 6-hydroxydopmamine (OHDA)-induced change in locomotion in larval zebrafish, which has become a well-established PD disease model. Equimolar mixtures that each contained three cannabinoids were able to significantly reverse the OHDA mediated changes in locomotion and other advanced metrics of behavior. Additional screening of sixty-three variations of the original cannabinoid mixtures identified five highly efficacious mixtures that outperformed the original equimolar cannabinoid MEMs and represent the most attractive candidates for therapeutic development. This work highlights the strength of the reductionist approach for the development of ratio-controlled, cannabis mixture-based therapeutics for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Nixon
- National Research Council of Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lori M. N. Shimoda
- Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Chaminade University, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Helen Turner
- Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Chaminade University, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Alexander J. Stokes
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | | | - Lee D. Ellis
- National Research Council of Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada
- *Correspondence: Lee D. Ellis,
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Kempster P, Ma A. Parkinson’s disease, dopaminergic drugs and the plant world. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:970714. [PMID: 36133818 PMCID: PMC9483127 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.970714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A large proportion of drugs used for the treatment of neurological disorders relate to naturally occurring compounds, many of which are plant alkaloids. This is particularly true of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The pharmacopoeia of PD has strong botanical origins, while major discoveries about the neurochemistry of the basal ganglia came from the study of phytochemicals. This article narrates the development of pharmacotherapy for PD in terms of historically important plant-derived substances—tropane and hamala alkaloids, reserpine, levodopa, apomorphine, and ergoline dopamine receptor agonists. Alkaloids are nitrogen-containing secondary metabolic products that tend to be biologically active. They appear to be involved in plants’ adaptation to herbivorous animals, though their exact purpose and the ways in which they work are uncertain. A sizable group of alkaloids influence animal dopaminergic systems, highlighting a key biological relationship. While animals must acquire the energy that plants harness, plants need to engage with the animal attribute that they lack—movement—in order to maximize their reproductive fitness. Neuroactive flowering plant compounds have been interacting with vertebrate and invertebrate motor systems for 100 million years. A deep evolutionary connection helps to explain why the pharmacological treatment of PD is imprinted with the power of these mysterious botanical chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kempster
- Neurosciences Department, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Peter Kempster,
| | - Andrew Ma
- Neurosciences Department, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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14
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Randomized controlled trials on the use of cannabis-based medicines in movement disorders: a systematic review. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:1247-1256. [PMID: 35859051 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02529-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Anecdotal references, preclinical, and non-randomized studies support the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for movement disorders (MD). To create an evidenced-based point of view for patients and physicians, we performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCT) on the use of cannabinoids in MD. The seven RCTs found on PD used different cannabis formulations. No improvement of motor symptoms was shown in any of the two RCTs with this as primary outcome (PO), but in the nabilone group, an improvement in quality of life was documented. Of the three RCTs having levodopa-induced dyskinesia as PO, only one using nabilone showed a reduction. Anxiety and anxiety-induced tremor could be reduced in the cannabidiol group as well as anxiety and sleeping problems in the nabilone group in another RCT. In two RCTs with Tourette syndrome, an improvement in tics was revealed. From three RCTs on Huntington's disease only one found symptoms relief using nabilone. No reduction of dystonia could be shown in the two included RCTs. The limited number of available but small and inhomogeneous RCTs precludes reliable conclusions. Therefore, more and smartly designed RCTs are urgently needed.
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Singh G, Jie WWJ, Sun MT, Casson R, Selva D, Chan W. Overcoming the impact of physiologic tremors in ophthalmology. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 260:3723-3736. [PMID: 35788893 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-022-05718-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ophthalmic surgery involves the manipulation of micron-level sized structures such as the internal limiting membrane where tactile sensation is practically absent. All humans have physiologic tremors that are of low amplitude and not discernible to the naked eye; they do not adversely affect the majority of the population's daily functioning. However, during microsurgery, such tremors can be problematic. In this review, we focus on the impact of physiological tremors on ophthalmic microsurgery and offer a comparative discussion on the impact of such tremors on other surgical specialties. METHODS A single investigator used the MEDLINE database (via PubMed) to search for and identify articles for inclusion in this systematic review. Ten key factors were identified as potentially having an impact on tremor amplitude: beta-blockers, muscle fatigue, robotic systems, handheld tools/micromanipulators, armrests/wrist supports, caffeine, diet, sleep deprivation, consuming alcohol, and workouts (exercise). These key terms were then searched using the advanced Boolean search tool and operators (i.e., AND, OR) available on PubMed: (*keyword*) AND (surgeon tremor OR microsurgery tremor OR hand steadiness OR simulator score). RESULTS Ten studies attempted to quantify the baseline severity of operator physiologic tremor. Approximately 89% of studies accessing the impact of tremors on performance in regards to surgical metrics reported an improvement in performance compared to 57% of studies concluding that tremor elimination was of benefit when considering procedural outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Robotic technology, new instruments, exoskeletons, technique modifications, and lifestyle factors have all demonstrated the potential to assist in overcoming tremors in ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurfarmaan Singh
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Health & Medical Sciences Building, 4 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | | | - Michelle Tian Sun
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Health & Medical Sciences Building, 4 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert Casson
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Health & Medical Sciences Building, 4 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dinesh Selva
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Health & Medical Sciences Building, 4 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - WengOnn Chan
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Health & Medical Sciences Building, 4 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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