Effects of acute administration of Cannabidiol on anxiety and tremors induced by simulation test of public speaking in Parkinson\'s disease patients

Author(s)

Stephanie Martins de Faria

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Ribeirão Preto.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (PCARP/BC)
• Defense date: 2019-02-12

Examining board members

Marcos Hortes Nisihara Chagas; Henrique Ballalai Ferraz; Moacir Antonelli Ponti; Antonio Waldo Zuardi

• Advisor: Marcos Hortes Nisihara Chagas

Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main components of Cannabis sativa and has anxiolytic properties. In addition, this substance has been implicated in the improvement of non-motor symptoms of Parkinson\'s disease (PD), but no study has been conducted to evaluate the effects of CBD on anxiety symptoms in patients with PD. Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of acute CBD administration at a dose of 300 mg on anxiety measures and tremors induced by a simulated public speaking test in individuals with PD. Methods: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial was conducted. Individuals with idiopathic PD who were not on benzodiazepines or antidepressants were included. Individuals with atypical Parkinsonism, dementia, and a current psychiatric diagnosis were excluded. A total of 24 individuals with PD were included and underwent two experimental sessions within a 15-day interval. After taking CBD or a placebo, participants underwent the Simulated Public Speaking Test (SPST). During the test, the following data were collected: heart rate, systemic blood pressure, and tremor frequency and amplitude. In addition, the Visual Analog Mood Scales (VAMS) and Self-Statements During Public Speaking Scale (SSPS) were applied. Statistical analysis was performed by repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) while considering the drug, SPST phase, and interactions between these variables. Results: After the analysis, there were statistically significant differences in the VAMS anxiety factor for the drug (F=6.27; p=0.021); CBD attenuated the anxiety experimentally induced by the SPST. Regarding the variables recorded by the accelerometer, the repeated-measures ANOVA showed significant differences in the drug for the variable related to tremor amplitude (F=6.19; p=0.022). There were no significant differences in other variables for the drug or drug-phase interaction. Conclusion: Acute CBD administration at a dose of 300 mg decreased anxiety in patients with PD; simultaneously and the tremor amplitude in an anxiogenic situation. Future studies on the chronic CBD administration will be important in this population. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/06561-2 - Effects of acute administration of Cannabidiol on anxiety and tremors induced by simulation test of public speaking in Parkinson's disease patients
• Grantee: Stephanie Martins de Faria
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master