A review of cannabis-based medicines in neurological disorders found the best evidence for Tourette syndrome, where THC-containing preparations improved tics and psychiatric comorbidities, with more limited evidence for Parkinson's and Huntington's disease.
Neurologists, patients with movement disorders considering cannabis, and researchers studying cannabinoid neuropharmacology.
Best neurological evidence: Tourette syndrome with THC-based preparations
What the researchers found
The best evidence for cannabis-based medicine efficacy in movement/neurodegenerative disorders is for Tourette syndrome, where THC-containing preparations improved tics and psychiatric comorbidities. Limited evidence suggests benefits for Parkinson's disease (tremor, pain, sleep) and Huntington's disease (behavioral symptoms). Neuroprotective effects have been speculated but not confirmed clinically.
Why it matters
While cannabis-based medicines are well-established for pain and spasticity, their potential in movement and neurodegenerative disorders is still emerging. This review clarifies where the evidence is strongest and where more research is needed.
The numbers in context
THC-containing preparations recommended for Tourette syndrome. Limited evidence for Parkinson's (tremor, non-motor symptoms) and Huntington's (behavioral symptoms). Neuroprotective effects speculated but unconfirmed clinically.
How the study worked
Narrative review summarizing current evidence for cannabis-based medicines in selected neurological diseases, focusing on movement disorders and neurodegenerative conditions. Part of a book chapter in Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences.
What this study cannot tell us
Narrative review without systematic methodology. Relies on existing evidence which is sparse for most movement disorders. The chapter format may not capture all recent studies.
How to read the evidence
Moderate: narrative review in an authoritative book series, summarizing a mix of evidence levels across conditions.
When this study was published
Published 2026.
The bigger picture
Neurological movement disorders are often treatment-resistant, and patients frequently self-medicate with cannabis. This review provides clinicians with an evidence-based framework for discussing cannabis-based options, particularly for Tourette syndrome.
Questions still open
- What THC doses and formulations work best for Tourette syndrome? Could cannabis-based medicines address the psychiatric comorbidities of Parkinson's? Will the speculated neuroprotective effects ever be demonstrated in clinical trials?
Common questions
Can cannabis help with Tourette syndrome?
Does cannabis protect against neurodegeneration?
Read the original research
The Use of Cannabis-Based Medicine in Selected Neurological Disorders.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences, 76, 433-454
Citation
Szejko, Natalia; Saramak, Kamila; Müller-Vahl, Kirsten R. (2026). The Use of Cannabis-Based Medicine in Selected Neurological Disorders.. Current topics in behavioral neurosciences, 76, 433-454. https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2024_564
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