Expert Briefing: Marijuana: What Do We Really Know?

There is increasing interest in the Parkinson's patient and research community about the potential for cannabis-based products to treat PD. In this expert briefing we will review what cannabis is, how it works in the brain and why there is so much excitement about its potential in PD. We will then review animal and basic science studies suggesting some promise in treating motor symptoms and slowing the progression of PD. We will conclude by reviewing the evidence to date in human studies, suggestions for future research and practical advice for persons interested in trying cannabis-based products.

At the end of this presentation, participants will:

Define cannabis, cannabinoids and endocannabinoids
Review the basic science of the potential of cannabinoids to affect Parkinson's and other movement disorders
Understand the current state of the evidence of cannabinoids as a treatment for Parkinson's
Know the most common side effects of cannabinoid-based therapies

Download Slides

Presenter

Benzi M. Kluger, M.D., M.S
Associate Professor
University of Colorado Hospital