According to a preliminary study file to the American Academy of Neurology, and which would be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 71st Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, May 4 to 10, 2019, medical marijuana might help older adults with their ailments.
As the researchers reported, cannabis is excellent in helping patients with chronic illnesses such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, spinal cord damage, and multiple sclerosis, and who suffer from pain, sleep disorders, or anxiety.
“With legalization in many states, medical marijuana has become a popular treatment option among people with chronic diseases and disorders, yet there is limited research, especially in older people,” said Laszlo Mechtler, MD, of Dent Neurologic Institute in Buffalo, N.Y., and a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and the study’s leading author.
“Our findings are promising and can help fuel further research into medical marijuana as an additional option for this group of people who often have chronic conditions,” the researcher added.
Medical Marijuana Might Help Older Adults With Their Ailments
More than 200 people with an average age of 81 participated in the study. The researchers administered various dosages of THC and CBD, the primary two compounds in cannabis plants, to the participants in the research, for four months.
At the end of the study, only 21 percent of the participants reported adverse effects related to medical marijuana use. Among the side effects, the most common were sleepiness, dizziness, and digestive turbulence. Only three percent of the subjects refused to continue taking cannabis due to adverse symptoms.
But, eventually, the study’s results revealed what the scientists presumed at the beginning of the study. More specifically, 69 percent of participants reported pain relief and improved sleep. Besides, neuropathy improved in 15 percent of the subjects, while anxiety in only 10 percent.
“Our findings show that medical marijuana is well-tolerated in people age 75 and older and may improve symptoms like chronic pain and anxiety. Future research should focus on symptoms like sleepiness and balance problems, as well as efficacy and optimal dosing,” concluded Laszlo Mechtler.
Vadim is a passionate writer on various topics but especially on stuff related to health, technology, and science. Therefore, for Great Lakes Ledger, Vadim will cover health and Sci&Tech news.