A double-blind trial tested THC with CBD co-administration for Tourette syndrome tics, building on preliminary evidence of cannabinoid benefit.
Neurologists, Tourette syndrome patients, movement disorder specialists, and cannabinoid therapy researchers.
Double-blind trialControlled trial of THC with CBD for Tourette syndrome tic reduction
What the researchers found
The double-blind trial examined whether THC with CBD co-administration improved tics in Tourette syndrome, with CBD potentially improving the side-effect profile and safety of the THC component.
Why it matters
Tourette syndrome has limited treatment options and many patients report self-medicating with cannabis. Rigorous clinical trial data is needed to evaluate whether cannabinoids should be formally recommended.
The numbers in context
Double-blind trial of THC with CBD co-administration in Tourette syndrome, which is characterized by chronic motor and vocal tics.
How the study worked
Double-blind clinical trial evaluating THC and CBD for Tourette syndrome tic reduction and safety.
Who was studied
Adults with Tourette syndrome participating in a double-blind clinical trial.
What this study cannot tell us
Trial details (sample size, duration) from abstract are limited; previous evidence was preliminary; tic assessment tools may not capture all symptom dimensions.
How to read the evidence
Double-blind clinical trial provides strong evidence; builds on preliminary data.
When this study was published
Recent clinical trial for an underserved neurological condition.
The bigger picture
This trial contributes to the growing evidence base for cannabinoid-based treatments for neurological conditions with limited therapeutic options.
Replication
Advances preliminary cannabinoid-Tourette evidence to controlled trial level.
Funding
Not specified
Conflicts of interest
Not specified
Questions still open
- Does CBD reduce THC side effects without reducing tic benefit?
- What THC:CBD ratio is optimal?
- Are improvements maintained long-term?
Read the original research
Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol in Tourette Syndrome.
NEJM evidence, 2(9), EVIDoa2300012
Citation
Mosley, Philip E; Webb, Lachlan; Suraev, Anastasia; Hingston, Leah; Turnbull, Tracy; Foster, Kelley; Ballard, Emma; Gomes, Lauren; Mohan, Adith; Sachdev, Perminder S; Kevin, Richard; Gordon, Rebecca; Benson, Melissa; McGregor, Iain S. (2023). Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol in Tourette Syndrome.. NEJM evidence, 2(9), EVIDoa2300012. https://doi.org/10.1056/EVIDoa2300012