Can CBD Help with Alzheimer's and Dementia Care? Exploring the Potential Benefits

If someone you love is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you’re likely familiar with the challenging symptoms—memory loss, confusion, agitation and aggression, to name a few. As researchers are looking for new approaches to manage these symptoms of Alzheimer's, CBD, a natural extract from the cannabis or hemp plant, is gaining attention as a supplement with potential benefits for brain health and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

This article explores the research on the efficacy of CBD for Alzheimer’s disease and the treatment of dementia, examining how it may help manage symptoms, support brain health, and improve quality of life for patients and caregivers alike.

What Is CBD, and Why Might It Be Useful for Alzheimer's Disease?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a popular option for those looking for benefits without the “high”. In recent years, more and more scientists have investigated the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects of cannabidiol, all of which may play a role in Alzheimer’s care.

The potential effects of CBD on Alzheimer’s focus on how it interacts with the brain and body’s endocannabinoid system. This system helps to regulate many important bodily functions such as immune responses and inflammation - which are crucial to brain health. As Alzheimer disease involves oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, as well as the formation of amyloid plaques, CBD’s properties make it a prime candidate for alleviating some of these underlying issues and helping patients with dementia. 

CBD and Alzheimer’s: What Recent Research Tells Us

A recent clinical study specifically focused on the effects of CBD oil on neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients. Conducted as an open-label, prospective cohort study, it involved 59 patients with Alzheimer’s who experienced symptoms like agitation, anxiety, and aggression. These Patients received sublingual doses of a CBD-rich oil formulation over a minimum of three months.

The CBD oil that was used in this study had a high concentration of CBD (100 mg/mL) with a very low amount of THC (<1.9 mg/mL). The Dosage was gradually increased to achieve symptom relief without adverse effects.

Key Findings: Symptom Relief and Improved Quality of Life

The study found that CBD showed impressive results in alleviating neuropsychiatric symptoms among the participants:

• Reduction in Symptoms: After three months, 94.9% of patients showed at least a 30% reduction in symptoms, with 54.2% experiencing over 50% reduction.
• Sustained Benefits: These improvements from using CBD were noted to last up to two years for some participants, and covered a range of symptoms from agitation to nighttime disturbances.
• Caregiver Impact: In addition to the benefits for people living with Alzheimer's disease, the caregivers also experienced reduced distress, thanks to the improved behaviour and emotional stability of those they were caring for.

CBD oil vs. Traditional Treatments

Currently, the standard protocol used to treat Alzheimer’s symptoms includes medications that target memory loss, agitation, and depression. However, these medications often come with significant side effects, including confusion, drowsiness, and even cardiovascular risks - especially for elderly patients. In contrast, evidence suggests that CBD has relatively few side effects when used appropriately, making it an appealing supplement to traditional treatments.

The study’s findings indicate that CBD-rich oil was generally well-tolerated among the Alzheimer’s patients, with minimal side effects. Only one patient reported somnolence (drowsiness), which resolved after stopping the treatment. This positive safety profile suggests that CBD may offer a safer alternative to traditional medications for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms, which often come with sedative effects.

Using Cannabinoids for Alzheimer’s: Practical Considerations

When considering CBD as a supplement for Alzheimer’s, dosage and method of administration are key. Research suggests that any potential treatment should be individualised, starting with low amounts and gradually increasing based on symptom response and tolerance. Consulting a healthcare professional is absolutely essential to ensure that CBD will not interfere with existing medications.

Popular CBD Products for Alzheimer’s Support are:

• CBD Oil: Typically administered under the tongue for faster absorption.
• CBD Gummies: Easier for consistent dosing and convenient to use.
• Topical CBD: While not absorbed directly into the bloodstream, it can offer localised pain relief.

The Future of Cannabis in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

Though research on CBD and Alzheimer’s is promising, the field is still very young. More clinical trials are needed to understand CBD’s effectiveness fully, the best dosages, and how it could interact with other treatments. Current studies highlight the need for more large-scale trials to determine how CBD can be optimally used for dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve CBD for treating Alzheimer’s, and it’s essential for users to approach CBD as a supplement rather than a primary treatment for dementia.

Conclusion: Can CBD help with Alzheimer’s Care?

This recent study offers promising evidence for CBD as a beneficial addition to Alzheimer’s care, especially for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms such as agitation and anxiety. While CBD is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, it may serve as a safe, effective supplement to improve the quality of life for patients and reduce caregiver stress.

If you’re interested in exploring the properties of CBD for Alzheimer’s, speak with a healthcare provider to discuss safe dosage and product options. And as research continues, CBD could emerge as a valuable addition to the treatment toolkit for Alzheimer’s and dementia symptoms.

Curious to learn more? Reach out with any questions - our team is here to help!

Sources

[1] Navarro CE, Pérez JC. Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease with a Cannabis-Based Magistral Formulation: An Open-Label Prospective Cohort Study. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids. 2024 Sep 12;7(1):160-170.