How effective is medical cannabis therapy with cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive component of the hemp plant, in adults with neuropsychiatric symptoms resulting from Alzheimer's dementia? A study from Colombia concluded that CBD-rich oil can reduce both the severity of symptoms in affected individuals and the emotional and physical care burden on relatives.
Hallucinations, anxiety, restlessness, or apathy and irritability: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are usually associated with the progressive course of Alzheimer's dementia. These can be burdensome for caregivers and relatives, as they make daily care activities more difficult. Furthermore, NPS can lead to patients receiving an excessive number of medications (polypharmacy). Often, those affected must take more than five different medications simultaneously and permanently.
Effective and safe
To find alternative treatment approaches, researchers investigated the effects of so-called CBD oil in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms. The central finding of the research work, published in September 2024, makes it clear: CBD oil, which is rich in not The powerfully intoxicating hemp preparation cannabidiol can be considered effective and safe as a therapy for NPS at a daily dose of up to 111 mg. This applies regardless of sex, age, duration of Alzheimer's dementia, and severity of symptoms. A low CBD dose and a slow dose adjustment in patients further improved the tolerability of the therapy. The observed improvements persisted for up to 24 months.
The effect was particularly evident in the reduction of hallucinations, anxiety, restlessness, apathy, and irritability. However, the study also indicated improvements in neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, euphoria, disinhibition, motor disorders, nocturnal wandering, and atypical eating behavior.
Caregiver burden is reduced
However, caregivers also benefit from the therapy, as the analysis results confirmed. The caregiving burden of relatives and loved ones decreased, and they experienced less stress. Furthermore, the financial burden, which had arisen, for example, from polypharmacy and the transfer of those affected to a long-term care facility, was reduced. These findings could suggest, the researchers write, that the alleviation of neuropsychiatric symptoms eases daily care and thus reduces the emotional and physical burden on caregivers.
Diluted cannabis extracts
During a three-month period, people with Alzheimer's dementia received a medication that was custom-made for each individual. This involves diluting cannabis extracts and preparing them using sesame oil and ethanol, with the addition of sweeteners and flavorings.
The study was conducted in a clinic specializing in medical cannabis therapy in Bogotá, Colombia. All 59 participants developed Alzheimer's dementia after the age of 65. The patients were treated for an average of around 23 months. The follow-up period after the initial three months was two years. The researchers attribute the comparatively small number of participants to the fact that CBD treatment is expensive in Colombia and is not covered by healthcare for adults. This means that fewer patients may be able to afford this therapy.
Comprehensive neurological examinations
The individuals with dementia underwent neurological examinations monthly. Furthermore, the researchers interviewed the caregivers regarding the severity of symptoms and their own burden. To determine the tolerability of the therapy, questions were also asked about unwanted side effects. In addition, a complete blood count, liver function tests, and kidney function tests were performed before the start of the CBD therapy and during the follow-up period. The intervention was discontinued if there were abnormal lab values or reported side effects.
Tip for practiceWhen it comes to neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with dementia, the amount and interaction of medications should always be a focus. Alternative approaches, such as therapy with CBD oil, can also be helpful in treating NPS symptoms. However, alternative therapies should only be undertaken in close consultation with the attending physician.
Here is the link to the study:
