Medical Marijuana and Tourette Syndrome
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Tourette syndrome (TS) is a complex neurological disorder characterized by involuntary tics and vocalizations that can significantly detract from an individual’s quality of life. Traditional treatments can often lead to side effects that are as troubling as the syndrome itself.
Medical marijuana, however, has shown promising results in treating symptoms of Tourette’s. Could this be the relief that TS patients have been looking for? This blog outlines the research surrounding the topic and explores marijuana’s potential benefits and drawbacks.
What Is Tourette Syndrome and What Are the Symptoms?
Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder marked by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Named after Dr. Georges Gilles de la Tourette, who first described it in 1885, TS typically begins in childhood, with onset between ages three and nine.
Tics can be brief, repetitive movements like blinking or shoulder jerking, or coordinated actions such as touching objects or stepping in patterns. Vocal tics can range from throat clearing to repeating words or phrases. The frequency and severity of tics often fluctuate and may worsen with stress, fatigue, or excitement.
Chronic Motor or Vocal Tic Disorder shares similarities with Tourette’s, as both involve involuntary tics. However, chronic tic disorders are distinguished by the presence of either motor or vocal tics, but not both, and symptoms persist for over a year.
These conditions are often considered part of the spectrum of tic disorders, with Tourette syndrome being the most severe form. Understanding the overlap helps refine diagnosis and treatment options, as strategies for managing tics often apply across these related conditions.
Can Medical Marijuana Treat Tourette Syndrome?
Medical marijuana is considered a potential treatment for Tourette syndrome. Studies have demonstrated that the active compounds in cannabis known as THC and CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of tics associated with Tourette’s.
A meta-analysis published to the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, found that cannabis was effective in mitigating the severity of tics as well as premonitory urges, which is the uncomfortable physical sensation that occurs before a tic.
Can Medical Cannabis Make Tourette Syndrome Worse?
While there is a growing body of research that attests to the potential benefits of medical cannabis for managing the symptoms of Tourette syndrome, it’s essential to remember that individual responses to cannabis can vary widely. Some people may find that it exacerbates their symptoms rather than alleviating them.
It’s also important to note that medical cannabis, like all medications, can induce side effects. Such effects can include impaired concentration, sleepiness, and dry mouth, among others, and they can worsen some aspects of Tourette syndrome for some individuals.
As research continues to evolve, it’s crucial for those considering medical cannabis as a treatment option to consult their healthcare provider first.
Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Tourette’s?
Yes, you can get a medical marijuana card to treat Tourette syndrome in many states that have medical cannabis programs. The following states include “Tourette syndrome” as a qualifying condition:
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
Additionally, in states like New York, Virginia, and Washington D.C., doctors can prescribe medical marijuana to anyone they believe will benefit from the treatment. Learn more by checking out our interactive map of U.S. medical marijuana laws.
How to Use Medical Marijuana for Tourette Syndrome
Various forms of medical marijuana can be used to mitigate the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. Some of the most effective ones include:
- Smoking or Vaporizing: These methods provide immediate relief since they ensure the cannabinoids in the marijuana reach your bloodstream quickly through your lungs. However, dosing can be challenging to control, and long-term smoking could have adverse effects on your lung health.
- Edibles and Oils: These forms offer a longer-lasting effect and are easier on the lungs. They take longer to kick in but provide steady relief over time. Dosing can also be more accurately controlled.
No matter which kind of cannabis product(s) you use, it’s important to start with a small dose and gradually increase it as needed to allow your body to adapt to the drug.
Why Choose the Sanctuary?
At The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, we believe in medical marijuana’s potential as a treatment option for Tourette syndrome and many other conditions, and we are committed to helping our clients navigate the often complex pathway to accessing the medicine. Our streamlined, patient-focused process and our dedication to education set us apart as a trusted resource for all things medical marijuana.
Reach out to us today to learn how you can obtain a medical marijuana card and begin your medical cannabis journey.
States Where We Offer Medical Marijuana Card Services
How we reviewed this article:
- NHS (2021). Tourette’s Syndrome
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tourettes-syndrome/ - CDC (2024). Diagnosis for Tic Disorders
https://www.cdc.gov/tourette-syndrome/diagnosis/index.html - Ibrahim Serag, Mona Mahmoud Elsakka, Mostafa Hossam El din Moawad, Hossam Tharwat Ali, Khalid Sarhan, Sally Shayeb, Islam Nadim, Mohamed Abouzid (2024). Efficacy of cannabis-based medicine in the treatment of Tourette syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11393157/ - Tourette Association of America (2024). TAA Position Statement on the Use of Medical Marijuana for Tourette Syndrome
https://tourette.org/research-medical/medical-marijuana-research/ - Tourette Association of America (2024). The Cannabis Consortium Review of the Literature
https://tourette.org/research-medical/medical-marijuana-research/
Current Version
First Published
July 11, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
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Nicholas DiBella received his psychology degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2023. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
