From the Research
Cannabis should not be considered a standard treatment for Alzheimer's disease symptoms due to limited and mixed evidence, and its use should only be explored under close medical supervision. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024 1, suggests that cannabinoids might have a positive impact on amyloid formation in Alzheimer's disease and on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). However, the study also notes that older studies using low-dose oral synthetic THC showed no positive results, while more recent studies using THC/CBD-based oral medication at higher doses show promising results. Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of cannabis for Alzheimer's disease symptoms include:
- The potential benefits of cannabinoids in reducing inflammation and amyloid buildup in the brain, which are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease 2
- The possible therapeutic effects of cannabinoids on agitation, aggression, and sleep disturbances in Alzheimer's patients 3, 4
- The importance of carefully monitoring for benefits and side effects, as cannabis use can come with potential risks, including cognitive impairment, dizziness, confusion, and drug interactions 1, 5
- The need for further research to establish the clinical efficiency and optimal dosing of cannabinoids for Alzheimer's disease symptoms, as well as their potential interactions with other medications 1.