There’s still no cure, but using cannabis for dementia may help patients manage this disease. Certain essential cannabinoids in the plant address symptoms, improving overall quality of life.
The lack of effective intervention has boosted interest in alternative treatments. Many ongoing trials are investigating how cannabis affects memory and cognition. Others are looking into the safety profile and potential dosage questions.
Understanding the risks and benefits is crucial. Learn about the intriguing possibility of using cannabis in managing dementia.
Understanding dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term that includes various neurological conditions that affect cognitive function. Dementia impacts thinking, remembering, and reasoning. It interferes with daily functioning.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia¹. It accounts for two-thirds of all cases². This progressive disease starts with mild memory loss. It degrades cognition, compromises reasoning, and causes changeable moods.
This form of dementia may eventually influence personality and behaviour. People with advanced cases usually can’t talk or feed themselves. They also struggle to respond to their environment.
This degenerative brain disorder affects speech and thought. It builds confusion, generating problems with language or communication. The gradual decline of brain cells can change behaviour and personality.
Other types of dementia³ include:
- Mixed dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Younger-onset dementia
- CTE dementia
- HIV-related dementia
- Childhood dementia
Early symptoms are usually subtle and hard to spot. Common signs include short-term memory loss and limited attention span. Patients typically show increased apathy, withdrawal, and depression. Many can’t independently function.
People often fail to respond to these warnings. They mistake it for normal ageing and refuse to face the issue despite the evidence. These progressive diseases soon become undeniable.
Here are some typical symptoms of dementia⁴:
- Memory: Patients often struggle with worsening memory retention.
- Language problems: A person with dementia may have problems finding the right words. They often replace them with incorrect or inappropriate alternatives and may struggle to understand others.
- Disorientation: Some people with dementia lose track of where they are. Others become unsure of the time, mixing up when they are.
- Difficulty performing tasks: Patients can have trouble completing a series of steps. They may get sidetracked or distracted.
- Loss of interest: The disease can cause people to lose interest. They may need a push to engage in their favourite hobbies and activities. Some can’t be bothered.
- Mood, behaviour, or personality changes: Confusion can cause mood swings, suspicion, and fear. Some patients become withdrawn. A few become more outgoing and lose inhibitions.
- Losing or misplacing items: We all misplace our car keys, but this can happen on an industrial scale for someone with dementia.
- Failing spatial skills: Patients often find it difficult to determine distances. It makes driving dangerous and affects the sense of direction.
- Judgement issues: Patients typically struggle to make decisions based on available information. Clothing options may lack common sense.
- Abstract thinking processes change: Keeping track of finances becomes impossible. People with dementia can’t connect the numbers with their meaning.
The disease takes a toll on patients and their families. There are physical and psychological impacts. It also presents economic and social constraints. Dementia caregivers are at higher risk of issues. Anxiety, depression, and poor quality of life can have a negative impact.
Current treatment options for dementia
Dementia diagnoses became common in the 19th century. Most patients were hidden away in mental asylums. Authorities implemented archaic traditional treatments⁵.
In 1906, German physician Alois Alzheimer studied a diseased brain. He found damage to the deceased woman’s prefrontal cortex. It explained her reported aggression and paranoia.
This patient’s dementia case soon became known as Alzheimer’s disease. Improved understanding resulted in more humane treatment options. However, there is still no cure for dementia.
Treatment options remain limited. A few medications can offset symptoms temporarily. Physicians also prescribe medication to treat resultant issues, like depression or sleeping disorders.
Side effects are generally temporary. They include nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, constipation, and headaches. Medication limitations confirm the need for new treatments. Innovative and effective options could improve the quality of life for millions.
A few alternative therapies for dementia exist. Curcumin, coconut oil, and ginkgo biloba show potential. They might work in tandem with other medications. The evidence is limited, and further investigation is needed.
Many people eventually develop behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD)⁶. Anxiety may lead to increased agitation and wandering. Delusions, hallucinations, and aggression can be distressing for the patient and caregiver.
Cognitive stimulation therapy can help people with mild or moderate dementia. Cognitive rehabilitation involves achieving a personal goal through daily sessions. Carers use photos, pictures, and personal effects for reminiscence and life story work.
The potential of cannabis in dementia care
People have known about the medicinal properties of cannabis for thousands of years. It was first documented in 2800 BCE in China⁷. Hindus, Greeks, Assyrians, and Romans historically used the plant for treating several health conditions.
The cannabis plant contains cannabinoids. These substances attach to receptors in the brain, causing various reactions.
THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. It’s one of over 70 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. CBD isn’t psychoactive, but it offers promise for various ailments. For example, using cannabis for dementia may improve motor and behavioural symptoms⁸.
The body naturally produces similar substances to THC and CBD, known as endocannabinoids. They interact with receptors throughout the body. They’re found in body tissue and organs, but are most plentiful in the brain⁹.
These compounds make up the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It regulates many physiological processes with its effects on the brain. Cannabis consumption changes how the brain releases chemicals. It can impact pain, learning, appetite, memory, and mood.
New trials are investigating cannabis in dementia care. Scientists can now create synthetic cannabinoids. The potential for treating behavioural symptoms is high, but there is no medical consensus yet.
Evidence-based research on cannabis and dementia
Ongoing research on cannabis and dementia is checking its efficacy. To date, most evidence is anecdotal or lacking quality. There’s a need for further inquiry.
- One trial looked into the effectiveness of cannabis in treating dementia². It found that the plant could be effective in treating agitation and irritability. The active ingredients may counter disinhibition and calm aberrant motor behaviour and vocalisation.
- Four out of 12 primary clinical trials found significant evidence. Eight found no positive or negative impact. Low-quality evidence and non-randomised trials also impact the value of the data.
- A 2022 trial found that CBD with THC reduces spasticity in MS patients.
- CBD compared favourably to an antipsychotic medication treating schizophrenia. A 2012 trial showed it improves cognitive function⁹. It works independently or in combination with other drugs.
- A 2017 paper found CBD reduced childhood epilepsy seizures.
While cannabis-based treatment is promising, scientists have yet to find conclusive data. More evidence-based studies are needed to understand the potential benefits.
Potential benefits of cannabis for dementia patients
No scientific studies show cannabis slows, stops, or reverses the effects of dementia. Most highlight the possible benefits of cannabis for dementia treatment.
Trials show cannabinoids like THC and CBD may reduce amyloid concentrations. A build-up of the protein in the brain is typical of Alzheimer’s disease¹⁰. CBD may offer applications for managing dementia symptoms. Some therapists think cannabis brings peace to elderly patients.
Some evidence connects extended cannabis use to impaired memory. It may even alter brain function¹¹. Other trials link the plant to improved cognition and memory. This conflicting evidence demands further investigation.
Both CBD and THC may modulate the ECS. Some patient case studies report reduced agitation, quality of life improvements, and a drop in behavioural problems. Side effects are minimal.
Risks and considerations for healthcare providers
The body’s ability to process substances declines with age¹². Adults over 55 may be sensitive to cannabis and more susceptible to side effects. The risks of cannabis use also compound with certain medical conditions.
People shouldn’t use cannabis if they have heart conditions or blood vessel disease. Consumption with liver or kidney disease may be dangerous. The incidence of these issues increases in the older population¹³.
Ethical considerations for prescribing cannabis are the same as with any other medication. There needs to be a favourable benefit-to-risk ratio. Patients need to give their fully informed consent. Doctors should check up on safety and side effects in elderly patients.
Medical cannabis is legal in Australia. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates medicinal cannabis and approves applications for various conditions through registered practitioners.
Recreational use is banned everywhere, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)¹⁴.
Personalised treatment plans make the most of the treatment. Each person reacts differently and may require a customised dosage. It’s essential to monitor progress, especially in the early stages. Amend intake as needed and understand the potential side effects.
How healthcare providers can integrate cannabis in dementia care
Trials show prescribing cannabis could reduce the symptoms of dementia and improve quality of life¹⁵. Healthcare providers must assess suitability for cannabis treatments. This alternative treatment could provide relief where other options have failed.
Evidence shows it can ease chronic pain and anxiety. Cannabis shows great promise for limiting epileptic seizures and reducing multiple sclerosis spasticity.
Potential patients should undergo a comprehensive physical exam to investigate their mental health history. Doctors should find out which other treatments have failed and why. Chat with other medical professionals with relevant experience to get some more perspective.
Healthcare provider guidelines must factor in the risks and benefits. Doctors need to:
- Check for contraindications or precautions.
- Screen for drug interactions.
- Decide on a safe route of consumption.
- Choose a safe cannabis strain and product.
- Start with a low dose and slowly increase it over time.
- Arrange a schedule for monitoring treatment.
Collaborate with caregivers and family members when integrating cannabis into dementia care. Communication is crucial for successful implementation.
The lowdown on cannabis for dementia
Clinical trials suggest a possible role for cannabis in dementia therapy. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD may help fight some symptoms. Trials demonstrate these substances could improve quality of life.
It’s important to remember that cannabis can interact with other medications. Healthcare providers should have a deep understanding of the potential risks and benefits of this treatment option and stay informed of current progress in the field.
Further research is needed to provide a more comprehensive picture. Cannabis for dementia deserves careful consideration by healthcare providers.
Explore Planted’s educational resources and sign up for one of our knowledge-packed courses on medical cannabis. Continued learning elevates healthcare quality and empowers your medical practice.
References
- What is Alzheimer’s Disease? | CDC. (2021, April 7). Www.cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm#
- Kwakye Peprah, & McCormack, S. (2019, July 17). Medical Cannabis for the Treatment of Dementia: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines. Nih.gov; Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546328/
- Dementia Australia. (2024). Types of dementia. Www.dementia.org.au. https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/types-dementia
- Better Health Channel. (2014, May 31). Dementia - early signs. Vic.gov.au. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-early-signs
- horizon-digital-agency-hemant. (2020, December 23). History of Dementia. Midlands Care. https://midlandscare.co.uk/history-of-dementia/#
- What are the treatments for dementia? (2023, August 18). Nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about-dementia/treatment/#
- History of cannabis. (n.d.). The University of Sydney. https://www.sydney.edu.au/lambert/medicinal-cannabis/history-of-cannabis.html#
- Yockey, K. (2022, August 30). CBD oil for dementia: Can it help, dosage, safety, and more. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbd-oil-and-dementia#
- Cannabis and the treatment of dementia. (n.d.). Alzheimer Society of Canada. https://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/dementia-treatment-options-developments/cannabis-treatment-dementia
- Cannabis, CBD oil and dementia | Alzheimer’s Society. (n.d.). Www.alzheimers.org.uk. Retrieved July 13, 2024, from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/treatments/alternative-therapies/cannabis-cbd-oil-and-dementia#
- Burggren, A. C., Shirazi, A., Ginder, N., & London, E. D. (2019). Cannabis effects on brain structure, function, and cognition: considerations for medical uses of cannabis and its derivatives. The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 45(6), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/00952990.2019.1634086
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, July 9). Substance use in older adults drug facts. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-in-older-adults-drugfacts
- Canada, H. (2022, March 22). Health effects of cannabis on adults over 55. Www.canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medication/cannabis/health-effects/effects/adults-55-older.html#
- Brown, T. (2021, April 18). Medical Cannabis (Marijuana) and Legalities In Australia. Honahlee. https://honahlee.com.au/articles/medical-cannabis-legal-australia/#
- Arkell, T. R., Downey, L. A., Hayley, A. C., & Roth, S. (2023). Assessment of Medical Cannabis and Health-Related Quality of Life. JAMA Network Open, 6(5), e2312522. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.12522