On April 27, 2018, Dr. Jill G. Farmer, a neurologist and movement-disorder specialist, gave a lecture on medical marijuana and its possible use in helping to treat Parkinson’s Disease (PD) symptoms. (Note: You an watch the the complete lecture following this post.)
While there is no evidence that supports medical marijuana is effective for treating the motor symptoms of PD, there is evidence that it is effective for treating the non-motor and hyperkinetic symptoms of PD.
While some may fear the “high” associated with marijuana and the stigmas associated with using it, Dr. Farmer explained that medical marijuana is not the same as recreational-use marijuana. Specifically, the chemical component that produces the feeling of euphoria (THC) is greatly reduced or eliminated leaving the component (CBD) that is more therapeutic. In fact, there are already Cannabinoid-based (coming from Cannabis, or marijuana) medications on the market for multiple neurological conditions.
How one can get medical marijuana, however, depends on if it is legal in the state where you live and what its requirements are. For example, in NJ where it is legal, you need to have a qualifying condition such as chronic pain or anxiety. In Pennsylvania, however, Parkinson’s itself is an indicated diagnosis for medical marijuana.
Once you and your doctor decide to go forward with medical marijuana, it is not as simple as bringing a script to your local pharmist. Instead, you first need to obtain a certification from an approved doctor that you suffer from a covered medical condition. Next you need to apply for an ID card through your State’s medical marijuana website. Once you have that ID card, you need to go to an approved dispensary to obtain the medical marijuana. You can have a caregiver get this for you. However, that caregiver will also need to be registered with the State, and this includes a criminal background check.
For more information on the requirements in NJ, see the NJ Medicinal Marijuana Program website. In Pennsylvania, see the PA Medical Marijuana Program website. For more information in the State where you live, do an Internet search on your State’s name and medical marijuana.
If you cannot view the lecture above, please use this link.
You are right about getting medical marijuana. It does depend on the state a person resides in and without a prescription the pharmacists won’t give it to anyone. There has been several studies which shows medical marijuana can be extremely helpful to seniors who have Parkinson’s and unable to accomplish household tasks until someone help them with it.
Thank you John for your comment. I hope to be getting a prescription for it in the coming months and will report on how it works for me.
I am amazed with the difference in my life with Parkinson’s since being in the Medical Mj program.I was getting the most 3 hours sleep with terrible spasms in my legs.I am now able to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep,Peaceful spasmless sleep.My off times with Parkinson’s have been reduced dramatically.Opiods or muscle relaxer was never going to be option for me.I have seen so many people’s lives ruined.Thank you for this Program.
Thank you, John!
Is it okay to use medicinal cannabus with Sifrol for RLS? Just while I try the former and wean myself off the latter if it works.
Before introducing medical marijuana, we recommend that you discuss this with your doctor. Let us know you make out.
hi. from india my uncle 65 years old, is suffering from parkinson’s n day by day he is loosing his balance and control ..heard about this medical marijuana but dont know how do i get it i mean can i know the complete process of taking medical marijuana programme… it will be a great help ….thank you in advance
Thanks for sharing this valuable information.