Huntington’s disease (HD) is an inherited disease that causes certain nerve cells in the brain to waste away. People are born with the defective gene, but symptoms usually don’t appear until middle age. Early symptoms of HD may include uncontrolled movements, clumsiness, and balance problems. Recent years have brought a wealth of new scientific understanding regarding how medical marijuana or cannabis might be beneficial for treating Huntington’s Disease.

Later, HD can take away the ability to walk, talk, and swallow. Some people stop recognizing family members. Others are aware of their environment and are able to express emotions.

If one of your parents has Huntington’s disease, you have a 50 percent chance of getting it. A blood test can tell you if have the HD gene and will develop the disease. Genetic counseling can help you weigh the risks and benefits of taking the test.

Clinical Information Related to Huntington’s Disease and Marijuana Cannabis

• Controlled Clinical Trial of Cannabidiol in Huntington’s Disease
• Neuroprotective Properties of Cannabigerol in Huntington’s Disease: Studies in R6/2 Mice and 3-Nitropropionate-lesioned Mice
• Cannabinoids: Novel Medicines for the Treatment of Huntington’s Disease
• Sativex-like Combination of Phytocannabinoids is Neuroprotective in Malonate-lesioned Rats, an Inflammatory Model of Huntington’s Disease: Role of CB1 and CB2 Receptors