Parkinson’s researchers have put out an urgent call for participants in their pioneering clinical trial, as it is currently at risk of stalling.
The Parkinson’s UK and King’s College London “CAN-PDP” study is on whether cannabidiol (CBD) can treat symptoms of psychosis in people with Parkinson’s.
This research is crucial, as three in four people with Parkinson’s are affected by hallucinations and delusions.
There is presently no effective treatment for these symptoms.
Researchers already successfully established the correct dosage of synthetic CBD in the first half of their study.
However, the second half of the study — where researchers seek to learn if that dose can reduce symptoms of psychosis — is currently at risk of joining the 45% of clinical studies held up because of a lack of participants.
Dr Jennifer Foley, Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist and Mental Health Lead for the Parkinson’s Excellence Network, said:
“It is easy to mistake hallucinations for something else, like double vision or tiredness, and feel embarrassed talking about them. This can stop people from getting the right help.
“These experiences can be distressing, difficult to explain, and feel quite isolating.”
The trial is looking for 120 people with Parkinson’s to participate.
They must be over the age of 40 and have experienced symptoms of hallucination or delusion which have caused problems for them for at least one month.
Participants will take either the CBD (cannabidiol) drug or a placebo for 12 weeks and report if or how their symptoms change.
If you are interested in taking part, please email researcher Sara Pisani, [email protected]. Alternatively, more information on how to get involved can be found here on the Parkinson’s UK Take Part Hub.
Further information, advice and support is available on www.parkinsons.org.uk or at the Parkinson’s UK free, confidential helpline: 0808 800 0303.
