According to the findings of a federally-funded study, combining the cannabis components THC with CBD can reduce agitation significantly and sustainably in people suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.
This double-blind placebo-controlled study involved 120 patients with dementia, who had clinically significant symptoms of agitation and qualified for hospice treatment. The cannabis preparation used was T2C100. It contained 100mg CBD and 2mg THCA.
The researchers, from Medical University of South Carolina and Georgetown University, found that there was a “statistically significant improvement” in scores on a standardized scale to systematically assess agitation among patients who received the cannabis medication as compared to the placebo group—measured at both two weeks into the trial and at the end of the full 12-week study.
After two weeks, THC and CBD significantly improved the quality of life for 84 percent, compared with 31 percent in the group that received the placebo. After the trial was completed, 87 per cent of participants who received the MediPharm Labs cannabis medicine saw improvements, while only 24 percent did so in the placebo group.
According to an abstract, the results presented this month at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference suggest that “the THC/CBD combo used in the research may be a therapeutic tool important” for Alzheimer’s patients or those with other forms of dementia.
Jacobo Mintzer stated in a release that the trial was “profoundly positive”. It represents an important step in treating patients who have been ignored in previous clinical trials. We now have the evidence to support a very effective and new treatment for agitation, which may be suitable for those in their final stages of Alzheimer’s disease at the end-of-life. This could offer grace and peace during a difficult period for both patients and families.
He said that the results of this trial were “extremely impressive” and demonstrated a response level not previously seen in clinical trials related dementia. Rarely do we witness 90 percent or more of patients responding positively to new medications in clinical trials.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Alzheimer’s Association funded LIBBY, a study that involved patients with an age average of 80.5.
“The LiBBY study directly addresses one of the most challenging and under-discussed aspects of Alzheimer’s disease—end-of-life agitation,” Elizabeth Edgerly, voce president for care and support for the Alzheimer’s Association, said. These results highlight not only a promising treatment option but also the need to prioritize attention, care, and research in individuals with mid- or late-stage Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Brigid Reynolds, the co-principal author of the study, stated that, “showing the benefit of THC/CBD in comparison to placebo can provide hope for millions of patients and their loved ones, as well as caregivers.”
She said that agitation is a common symptom in people who have late-stage Alzheimer’s disease. It can cause restlessness, aggressiveness, and emotional distress, which has a profound impact on patients and caregivers. Current treatment options can be limited, and they often have side effects that are significant. There is a need for better, safer treatments.
The American Medical Association also adopted a statement last month that acknowledged both the potential risks of older adult marijuana users and the therapeutic benefits they may have.
This article notes simultaneously that marijuana may be a therapeutic option for dementia patients to manage agitation.
According to a study conducted last year, CBD has “promising results” in reducing inflammation and cognitive decline that is associated with ageing.
The 2024 review of a scientific study concluded that THC (the active ingredient in marijuana), CBD (the non-active component in cannabis), and the lesser known phytocannabinoids such as terpenes, flavonoids, and phytocannabinoids found in marijuana were “promising drugs in treating neurodegenerative disorder.”