Study to Examine Possible Effects of Cannabis Compound for Common Movement Disorder

INVESTIGATOR: Fatta Nahab, MD

STUDY LOCATION: University of California, San Diego

PROJECT TITLE: Study to Examine Possible Effects of Cannabis Compound for Common Movement Disorder

FUNDING SOURCE: Essential Tremor Foundation

PROJECT TYPE: Clinical Study

STATUS: COMPLETED

ABSTRACT:

This Phase I/II clinical trial was the first of its kind to explore cannabis as a potential treatment option for essential tremor

This novel clinical trial examined the safety, efficacy and pharmacological properties of cannabis as a potential treatment for adults with essential tremor (ET). Currently, ET is treated using repurposed medications originally developed for high blood pressure or seizures. Surgery is another option.

This phase I/II trial assessed efficacy and tolerability of an oral cannabis formulation comprised of cannabidiol (CBD) and low-dose tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

CBD is a major chemical compound found in cannabis. It does not produce the effects of feeling “high,” which are caused by THC. Both CBD and THC are two of more than 100 cannabinoids in cannabis and both interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of neurotransmitters that regulate diverse physiological and cognitive processes and response to stress.

The double-blind, placebo-control, cross-over clinical trial will consist of 16 adult participants who have been diagnosed with ET by a movement disorder neurologist. All study participants will be gradually administered an oral cannabis formulation with a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC. After completing a two-week period at the maximum target dose, participants tapered off, followed by a washout period before crossing over to the alternate study arm.

Essential tremor is a nervous system disorder characterized by involuntary, rhythmic shaking of any part of the body, most notably the hands. It affects an estimated 10 million American adults, and is often confused with Parkinson’s disease. The condition can make routine tasks, such as drinking water or tying shoelaces, difficult. ET usually worsens over time and often becomes a common cause of embarrassment, social withdrawal, disability and loss of occupation for those with the disorder.

Cannabis is a Schedule 1 drug, as defined by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and availability for research purposes is strictly limited. The oral cannabis formulation for this study was provided by Tilray, a Canada-based cannabis company.

To learn more about essential tremor, visit the International Essential Tremor Foundation.