Position Statement of Parkinson Society British Columbia on Cannabis as a Treatment for Parkinson's

As of October 17, 2018, the federal government, under Bill C-45, has legalized the purchase and consumption of marijuana (also referred to as cannabis) for Canadians.  

If you are considering the medical use of marijuana or its derivatives for Parkinson’s disease, it should be noted that to date, there have been no studies conclusively stating any benefits of cannabis for the treatment of symptoms. While smaller scale studies have been executed, study size and design have resulted in unreliable outcomes.

As with all drugs, the consumption of cannabis has potential side effects, including the possibility of exacerbating existing symptoms. If you are considering the medical use of marijuana for Parkinson’s disease, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare team to discuss whether cannabis may be an option for your unique situation. Your healthcare team can help you assess the potential risks and/or benefits of cannabis by providing information and guidance based on the latest research.

Last updated: October 1, 2019

Resources:

• Cannabis and Parkinson's helpsheet [download]
• Cannabis (Marijuana) and Parkinson's from the European Parkinson's Disease Association (EPDA) [visit website]