According to international researchers, the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease has doubled in the past 25 years, with an estimated 8.5 million individuals living with the serious health condition.

“Parkinson’s disease resulted in 5.8 million disability-adjusted life years, an increase of 81% since 2000, and caused 329,000 deaths, an increase of over 100% since 2000.” states the World Health Organization.

A team of investigators affiliated with various health and academic research institutions in Brazil recently examined tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its potential as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease. The researchers’ findings were published in Springer Nature.

“This study presents the case of an 83-year-old male Parkinson’s disease patient whose severe motor symptoms—including tremors, bradykinesia, and gait difficulties—persisted despite levodopa treatment. Consequently, THC-rich Cannabis oil was introduced as adjunct therapy.” the investigators wrote about the subject of their research.

“Over 9 months, the patient received Cannabis sativa L., Cannabaceae, oils with differing Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations under a titration protocol to identify the optimal dose. Clinical outcomes were assessed periodically using the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (primary outcome), alongside scales evaluating psychiatric symptoms, quality of life, and cognition.” the researchers wrote about their methodology.

“At 8 months, a dose of 18.25 mg THC/day (divided into three administrations) yielded the patient’s self-reported peak physical well-being and a 54.55% reduction in Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale scores, indicating significant motor symptom improvement.” the researchers added. “Secondary benefits included enhanced quality of life and improved sleep, in addition to reduced depressive and anxious symptoms.”

“These findings suggest that high-dose THC may be safe and effective for mitigating motor and non-motor Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Cannabinoids, particularly THC, show therapeutic potential for Parkinson’s disease management, though larger studies are needed to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.” the researchers concluded.