New treatment for Tourette’s Syndrome
Tuesday, June 5, 2024.
Tourette’s Syndrome, affecting about 1% of the population, is a challenging neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations, commonly known as tics.
These tics, which often include blinking, coughing, sniffing, and facial movements, typically begin during adolescence.
While approximately 80% of folks see their symptoms improve or disappear as they age, a significant minority continue to struggle with severe and distressing symptoms well into adulthood.
The Australian Study: A Breakthrough in a new treatment for Tourette’s Syndrome Treatment
A recent Australian experiment has provided promising evidence that medical cannabis can effectively alleviate the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. Conducted by Professor Iain McGregor and Dr. Philip Mosley, the study offers a new glimmer of hope for those enduring the daily challenges of this condition.
Professor McGregor emphasized the significance of the findings, stating; "This is such a difficult syndrome to treat. It severely impacts the quality of life of one in 100 young Australians. It is gratifying to know that our result provides strong evidence of an alternative treatment method for these patients in need."
Dr. Mosley, the study’s first author, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the research: "This is the first rigorous and methodical trial of medicinal cannabis to be undertaken in a sufficiently large group of people to make definitive conclusions about its effectiveness. It shows that medicinal cannabis can reduce tics by a level that makes a life-changing difference for people with Tourette syndrome and their families."
How the study was conducted
The trial involved 22 adults with severe Tourette's symptoms who were treated with both medicinal cannabis oil and a placebo over two six-week periods. Participants initially received 5 mg of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) along with 5 mg of cannabidiol (CBD), with doses gradually increasing to 20 mg of each compound over six weeks. THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis, while CBD is non-psychoactive and can mitigate some side effects of THC.
Dr. Mosley explained the mechanism behind cannabis’s efficacy: "Cannabis interacts with specific receptors on nerve cells in the brain that are part of the body’s own ‘endocannabinoid’ system. Effectively, stimulation of these receptors tightens a leaky filter that now stops the involuntary movements and vocalizations from getting out and being expressed by our participants."
The results were remarkable, demonstrating a significant reduction in tics, as well as a decrease in other associated symptoms such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. However, about one-third of participants experienced cognitive side effects, including poor concentration, memory problems, and overall slow thinking.
Implications for Couples and Families
As a couples therapist specializing in neurodiverse couples, I‘ve seen the profound impact that chronic neurological conditions like Tourette syndrome can have on relationships and family dynamics.
The stress and emotional burden on both the sufferer and their loved ones can be immense. The promise of medical cannabis as a viable treatment option not only offers symptom relief but also the potential to improve interpersonal relationships and overall family well-being.
Final thoughts
While this study marks a significant advancement, as my old man used to say.. “hold your horses…”
The broader context of medical cannabis research must be considered.
Other studies have shown varying levels of effectiveness of cannabis in treating different neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. However, concerns about the cognitive side effects of THC, particularly in young folks, must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits.
Furthermore, ongoing research is needed to refine dosing protocols and to explore the long-term effects of medical cannabis use.
It is also crucial to continue investigating non-pharmacological treatments, such as behavioral therapies, which can complement pharmacological interventions and provide holistic care for folks with Tourette’s syndrome.
However, there is little dispute that This Australian study's findings offer a new avenue of hope for those living with Tourette’s Syndrome.
As a couples therapist, I am also encouraged by the potential for medical cannabis to not only alleviate symptoms but also enhance the quality of life and relationships for those affected. Continued research and a balanced approach to treatment will be key in harnessing the full potential of this promising therapy.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
RESEARCH:
Mõttus, R., Kandler, C., Luciano, M., Esko, T., & Vainik, U. (2024, April 9). Familial Transmission of Personality Traits and Life Satisfaction Is Much Higher Than Shown in Typical Single-Method Studies. https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/7ygp6
