Huntington's disease, Huntington's chorea
Dr. Michael Duplessie, FRCS Ophth (Glasgow), M.B., B.Ch., L.R.C.P. & S.I., B.A.O., B.A.
Huntington’s disease, Huntington’s chorea
Cannabis sativa, popularly known as marijuana, has been used for recreational and medicinal purposes for centuries. However, its therapeutic value has been hindered by its legal status as a prohibited drug in most countries. Despite this, recent research has uncovered the role of endocannabinoids in various medical conditions, indicating their potential as a treatment option.
Diseases like pain, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, anorexia, epilepsy, glaucoma, and even cancer and neurodegenerative disorders may be treated with drugs modulating the endocannabinoid system.
Currently, cannabinoid receptor agonists like nabilone and dronabinol are used to reduce chemotherapy-induced vomiting, while Sativex (cannabidiol and THC combination) is used to treat spasticity due to multiple sclerosis. However, some clinical trials have faced challenges due to adverse effects, such as those experienced with Rimonabant, a promising anti-obesity drug.
Further research is being conducted to identify suitable targets for cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists, and to develop drugs that act selectively on cannabinoid receptors located outside the blood-brain barrier.
Additionally, non-CB1 and non-CB2 receptor targets for cannabinoids may provide further therapeutic potential. In order to fully exploit the endocannabinoid system’s therapeutic potential, further characterization is necessary to understand the exact cellular location of cannabinoid receptors and their role as “protective” and “disease-inducing substances,” as well as time-dependent changes in receptor expression.
Despite the challenges, continued research holds promise for the development of effective treatments with minimal adverse effects.
Medical Marijuana
Safe & Legal
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to breaking conventions and helping those in need. My passion for medicine began during my time working in refugee camps in Thailand, and since then, I have made it my mission to provide care and support to those who need it most.
As a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology, I have made numerous contributions and innovations in the field of corneal transplantation and laser surgery. I am comfortable challenging conventions.
I have seen firsthand the positive impact medical marijuana can have on patients struggling with pain and anxiety.
My experiences have shown me that medical marijuana can offer significant benefits with minimal side effects, providing patients with an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical medications. Despite its potential, the government’s stance on marijuana is outdated and in need of revision.
Through my observations, I have seen prescription rates for pain, stress, insomnia, anxiety to name just a few, drastically decrease among patients who have obtained a medical marijuana card, and I believe that this is a testament to its effectiveness.
