10 Rare Diseases That Cannabis May Treat

A bag full of medical equipment in a hospital room and a cannabis plant

There are thousands of disorders out there that have remained understudied due to their rarity and complexity. Cannabis and cannabinoid compounds may provide complex solutions to these complex diseases. Medicinal cannabis programs are now helping to discover these solutions and deliver them to the patients that desperately need them.

There is an increasing awareness that cannabis has the ability to help manage pain, inflammation, or neurogenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. But the true potential of using medicinal cannabis for rare diseases and disorders has yet to be unlocked. From myasthenia gravis to Behçet’s disease: patients deserve an honest look into new, effective cannabis-based treatments. Let’s see what research says so far.

1. Myasthenia gravis

  • An autoimmune condition causing progressive weakening of the skeletal muscles
  • Affects 50 to 200 million people worldwide

The main signs and symptoms of myasthenia gravis include:

  • Drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, and facial features
  • Difficulty with chewing, swallowing and speaking
  • Respiratory difficulty and weakness in the arms, hands, fingers, legs, and neck

Myasthenia gravis is caused by antibodies that attack nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, blocking the normal transmission of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for coordinating nerve impulses with muscle movement. There’s no cure for myasthenia gravis, but some anticholinesterase medications may have some effect.

Acetylcholinesterase is the enzyme that degrades acetylcholine, so inhibiting the former can effectively raise levels of the latter at the neuromuscular junction (where nerve meets muscle). Higher levels of acetylcholine allow more nerve signals to get through, and improve the response of the muscles.

Various studies have demonstrated THC’s ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and reduce the degradation rate of acetylcholine. One US state, Illinois, includes myasthenia gravis on its list of approved conditions, and California-based doctor Allan Frankel has been treating myasthenia gravis patients with a combination of CBD and THC-A, apparently with good results.

2. Tuberous sclerosis complex

  • A rare genetic disorder that causes benign tumours to grow within the brain, eyes, and other vital organs
  • Global prevalence of 7-12 cases per 100,000
  • Usually diagnosed during infancy or childhood

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) can cause autism, epilepsy, developmental delay, behavioural problems and various other symptoms, although symptoms vary widely between individuals.

In TSC, genetic mutations alter the expression of two proteins: hamartin and tuberin. In healthy individuals, these two proteins work together to control various aspects of cell growth, division and death. They also act as tumour growth suppressors. In TSC, these two proteins are inhibited, allowing unchecked cell growth and ultimately the formation of tumours.

The endocannabinoid system is deeply involved in cases of TSC. Research has suggested that children with TSC show abnormally high expression of CB₁-receptors during early brain development. It’s been suggested that the endocannabinoid system might play a role in processes related to cell division and death. Furthermore, CBD is an important anti-epilepsy drug that can manage seizures in TSC.

Other treatments are also being developed, though. GW Pharmaceuticals has just recently received FDA approval for its CBD-based spray Epidiolex, which can be prescribed for epilepsy caused by Lennox-Gastant syndrome and Dravet syndrome. While this is great news for paving a way for much-needed treatments, this particular drug is also being criticized by some for its high price tag.

3. Mitochondrial disease

  • A group of genetic disorders affecting the mitochondria, the energy-generating “engines” of cells
  • Global prevalence of around 11-12 in 100,000
  • Children born with mitochondrial disease usually display symptoms by age 10
Some mitochondria cells against a blue background

Mitochondrial disease causes neurological impairment, seizures, chronic pain, muscle weakness, poor hearing and vision, learning disabilities, multi-organ disease and respiratory disorders.

Recognition of cannabis’ ability to treat symptoms of mitochondrial disease has come primarily from patient groups. Patients state that cannabis oil notably improves management of seizures and eases chronic pain. In the US state of Georgia, mitochondrial disease is now on the list of approved conditions for medicinal cannabis patients.

It’s thought that the antioxidant abilities of some cannabinoids may work directly to improve mitochondrial function. Several studies have investigated this relationship, but research is in its infancy. A discussion of existing studies can be found in the paper Cannabinoid receptor agonists are mitochondrial inhibitors (A. Athanasiou et al., 2007).

4. Behçet’s disease

  • An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks multiple parts of the body
  • Rare in North America and Northern Europe (1 in 15,000 to 1 in 500,000)
  • More common in certain regions of Asia and Africa (2 in 1,000 in Turkey, the worst-affected country)

Behçet’s disease (BD) can cause skin and genital lesions, joint swelling, chronic pain, swelling in the brain, blood clots, and aneurysms. It’s thought that a combination of as-yet-undetermined genetic and environmental factors cause BD. There’s no known cure, but anti-inflammatory drugs may provide some relief, and immunosuppressive drugs are also used.

Several cannabinoids including THC and CBD are known for their anti-inflammatory effect, and some US BD patients have reported subjective relief of symptoms when using cannabis. In the US, the state of Illinois has included BD on its list of approved disorders.

5. Neuromyelitis Optica (Devic’s syndrome)

  • A rare autoimmune disease that causes recurrent inflammation and demyelination of the optic nerve and spine
  • Global prevalence of 1-2 in 100,000
  • Often mistaken for multiple sclerosis (MS), which causes difficulty in establishing prevalence
A women with long brown hair pressing her browbone in pain and holding her glasses

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) causes ongoing loss of vision and spinal cord function; the latter can lead to muscle weakness, lack of coordination and bowel/bladder control, and loss of sensation.

NMO is very similar to MS, as the latter is also characterised by inflammation and demyelination of nerve tissue. However, a different autoimmune response is involved. NMO can cause much more rapid physical decline, and around 30% of sufferers die within five years of diagnosis. Conversely, the majority of MS sufferers can expect to live a normal or slightly reduced lifespan. As with MS, there’s no cure for NMO, but some medications can ease symptoms.

In a 2013 study into neuropathic pain and hypersensitivity resulting from NMO, the endocannabinoids 2-AG and anandamide were both elevated in patients compared to healthy controls. The authors concluded that these endocannabinoids are released at higher levels in NMO sufferers, in order to reduce pain and sensitivity and prevent hyperalgesia.

6. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

  • A group of genetic disorders affecting the skin and the connective tissues of the joints
  • Global prevalence of around 20 in 100,000
Someone using their hand to press their thumb backwards on the opposite hand

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) can cause hypermobile, unstable joints, hyperelastic skin, chronic pain, muscle spasms, deformities of the joint and spine, and cardiovascular complications. EDS is caused by mutations in certain key genes, which control the expression of proteins crucial to collagen production.

EDS sufferers have anecdotally reported subjective relief from neuropathic pain and spasms when using cannabis and cannabinoid-based treatments. The compound palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has also been used to control neuropathic pain in EDS, and is available under the brand name PeaPure in some countries.

Although not a classical cannabinoid, PEA is known to have affinity for the GPR55 and GPR119 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system, and is also known to augment the effects of anandamide by an entourage effect.

7. Pemphigus

  • A rare group of autoimmune disorders affecting the skin and the mucous membranes, particularly the mouth
  • Global prevalence of pemphigus is estimated at 10-50 in 100,000
  • Certain ethnic groups (particularly Ashkenazi Jews) are more affected than others

Pemphigus causes itchy, often painful blisters and sores that can spread to cover a large percentage of the body. If untreated, it can cause runaway infections, which can be fatal. The most common treatments include several high-strength steroids including prednisone, which have a range of serious side-effects when used long term.

A close up of cells in various shades of pink and purple

Pemphigus is caused by pathogenic antibodies attacking a protein known as desmoglein. Without this protein, epidermal cells cannot stick together as normal, and the layer of the skin and mucous membranes gradually sloughs off.

Cannabis-based treatments have been shown to be effective against several autoimmune disorders affecting the skin, including psoriasis and epidermolysis bullosa. In general, it’s the CB₂-receptors that mediate the immunological and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids – and these receptors are highly concentrated in the epidermis.

Furthermore, cannabinoid treatments (specifically topical creams and ointments) may also confer important antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects, helping to prevent secondary infection. Several patent applications for cannabis-based topicals for pemphigus have been submitted, and there are several anecdotal reports of patients experiencing relief from symptoms.

8. Myoclonus diaphragmatic flutter

  • An extremely rare condition causing rapid, involuntary spasms of the diaphragm
  • Only 50 people worldwide diagnosed thus far
  • Also known as belly dancer’s syndrome

Myoclonus diaphragmatic flutter (MDF) causes the diaphragm to contract between 35 and 480 times per minute, causing a spasmodic, rippling effect somewhat reminiscent of a belly dancer. This extremely rare disorder may be caused by nutritional disorders, dysfunction of the central or peripheral nervous systems, pharmaceuticals, or possibly even anxiety.

MDF is not generally thought to be fatal, but causes discomfort and difficulty with breathing and eating. There is no standard pharmaceutical treatment, but symptoms can be quickly relieved by temporarily blocking the phrenic nerve that runs past the lungs to reach the diaphragm.

In one celebrated case, a young man suffering from MDF, Chaz Moore, was reported to have found that medicinal cannabis was the only effective treatment for his symptoms. Due to its extreme rarity, there is little research on the disease. However, cannabinoids with antispasmodic and anticonvulsant effects, such as CBD, are likely to be of most interest.

9. Familial Mediterranean fever

  • An inherited inflammatory disorder that particularly affects the chest, abdomen and joints
  • Global prevalence estimated at 10-50 in 100,000; in worst-affected areas prevalence may be as high as 500 in 100,000 (1 in 200)
  • Mostly affects Mediterranean populations, particularly Armenians, Greeks, Italians and Sephardic Jews

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) causes attacks of pain, fever and inflammation in the chest, abdomen and joints, which last several hours and recur intermittently. First attacks occur by the age of 18 in 90% of patients and diagnosed by age 20.

FMF is thought to be caused by mutations in genes that control expression of a protein known as pyrin, which is deeply involved in regulating inflammatory processes. Analgesics, NSAIDs and certain other drugs including colchicine may have some effect.

Cannabis was first described as a possible treatment for FMF in 1997. In a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial conducted on a single patient with FMF, THC was found to markedly reduce the need for opiate-based painkillers. However, it doesn’t appear that any further research has been conducted.

10. CDKL5 deficiency disorder

This rare and recently-discovered condition causes severe seizures, developmental delays, scoliosis, microcephaly, poor motor control, limited speech, and various other abnormalities. It’s associated with mutations in the CDKL5 gene, which is located on the X-chromosome.

Very little is known about this disorder so far, and there have been no formal studies into the potential of cannabis as a treatment. However, several families of children with the condition have reportedly seen great improvements after using CBD. In 2014, an 11-month-old girl was reported to have exhibited improvements in muscle control, eye contact, alertness and overall progress after using CBD.

A toddler wearing pink framed glasses resting on a white bed and holding flowers

In 2016, 6-year-old Harper Elle Howard tragically lost her battle against CDKL5. At just two weeks old, she began to experience life-threatening seizures that failed to respond to conventional treatments.

Treatment with CBD caused a rapid and dramatic decline in seizures, and allowed Harper to resume near-normal development for several years. However, the battle to maintain normal life ultimately proved too much for Harper – although her story has directly inspired changes in medicinal cannabis legislation in half a dozen countries.

Of course, these aren’t the only rare diseases that may benefit from cannabis. There are plenty of disorders and diseases that it may be able to help and need further research. Cystic fibrosis is just one of them. While there really isn’t any research showing its effectiveness or exactly how it might help, there’s thought among the medical community about its possibilities.

  • Disclaimer:
    This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or other licensed medical professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard medical advice due to something you have read on this website.

Comments

19 thoughts on “10 Rare Diseases That Cannabis May Treat”

  1. I was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease 9 years ago; and, began experimenting with high CBD oils 2 years ago. I have found success (i.e. pain free, decreased muscle spasticity) with high CBD hybrid oils that have a THC:CBD ratio of 1:20. In particular, other MD affected individuals might want to try the following Canadian-produced medical marijuana products: (1) Tweed Mainstreet – Mettrum Yellow Oil; (2) Aurora – CanniMed Oil 1:20. These products have identical THC:CBD ratios; but have different terpene profiles, that have markedly different effects on my physiology.

    Note: When I tried a THC:CBD ratio of 1:1, it triggered the rapid onset of a deep depression. I am not sure if this outcome would be the same for other MD affected individuals.

    Best wishes,
    Paula

  2. Hi my mother has Mucus Membrane Penthagoid, she is on a mix of strong steroid medications, i wamt to know if i write a list of her medications can you tell me if cbd oil will help her and not contradict any of her medications. Awaiting a reply. Thankyou.

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Dear Sandy,

      Thank you for your comment. We are sorry to hear about your situation. Unfortunately, as Sensi Seeds is not a medical practice, we are not able to provide any advice relating to medical situations other than to consult your doctor or other licensed medical professional. This article, written specifically for healthcare providers who may not be aware of the many properties of cannabis, may be useful to you in talking with your doctor. You could also try to contact local medicinal cannabis support groups, if you have not already done so. In the UK, there is the United Patients Alliance (you can find them on Facebook) and in the US and EU there are many branches of NORML (google NORML followed by your area name). We hope this is helpful.

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

  3. I have SOJGREN’S SYNDROME I’M TOLD.THERE IS NO.CURE. .SO , I THERE’S NO.CURE WHY pump me full full of medication 14 pills a day 3 chemo medications for antidepressants Marinol because it’s the only thing legal in Oklahoma at the time why make me into a cauldron of poison and soup if there’s no cure for it I don’t understand I don’t want to be a guinea pig

  4. I also suffer from Dercums. Currently searching for a remedy to stop/slow down new lipomas and reduce size of existing ones. Any advice will be greatly appreciated

  5. I have dercums and it helps me tremendously as well as a lot of others with dercums … (i know from private support group chats) can u check it in adding it to the list

    1. Melody, may I ask what dosage and if you use liquid or salve or a combination? I have a good friend with this same rare disease and am trying to get her on a regime.

      1. A. Ganie Cader

        Would also like to know if cannabis oil does help children with Hunter Syndrome

        (South Africa, Cape Town)

  6. It also helps relieve pain and delays flare ups for my rare disease called: Hidradenitis Suppurativa, a rare and painful chronic skin disease. It also helps me cope with my anxiety after surgery of removing a benign tumor caused by the disease in a precious area. Nothing helps me better than cannabis!

  7. Very interesting, I have multiple problems and the worst (yes even my cancer didn’t bother me as much) is Behçet’s. My dr has said if legal in my state I would be first on his list. Why can’t people see this is something many could benefit from!

    1. Deanna Little

      I think Behcet’s is pretty awful as well. I think thc and cbd help although not much research has been done to determine why. Illinois has added it to their approved list recently:) Also, for Behcets a drug called Trental helps me if you haven’t checked out that route. Its such a terrible one that I just want to share possible treatments that aren’t talked about much.

  8. While not rare, I have Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and the only truly effective relief comes from marijuana. I was previously using Miripex, at a dose typically prescribed for Parkinson’s patients, but only saw minor relief. After retiring from the military, I tried marijuana and found that it immediately stops the symptoms. If I feel the onset of RLS, I consume marijuana and never experience the urge to move my feet/legs. Now I can get to sleep easily.

  9. I have a rare disease called Adiposis dolorosa, also known as Dercum’s disease or Anders disease, is a rare condition characterized by generalized obesity and fatty tumors in the adipose tissue. The tumors are normally painful and found in multiples on the extremities. The understanding of the cause and mechanism of Dercum disease remains unknown.
    I have been on so many medications over the years and nothing helps my pain better than cannabis. It also helps with my depression and my anxiety. Some day I hope that it becomes legal in my state. I either suffer or risk going to jail.

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    Sensi Seeds

    The Sensi Seeds Editorial team has been built throughout our more than 30 years of existence. Our writers and editors include botanists, medical and legal experts as well as renown activists the world over including Lester Grinspoon, Micha Knodt, Robert Connell Clarke, Maurice Veldman, Sebastian Maríncolo, James Burton and Seshata.
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    Sanjai Sinha

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